MURAL TIP #1 | How to Paint a Mural for Under $10

A mural under 10 bucks? Whaaaa? Are you wondering if I wrote that right?

Sure did! Best news all day, I’d say.

Actually, if we get really into it, there are quite a few ways you could do a super inexpensive mural (find house paints laying around, have sponge brushes in your drawer, have some chalk paint markers and a chalkboard, etc.) but the one I want to talk about today is a professional-looking, clean-lined, easy mural.

The Trick…

1 black paint marker. That’s it! The brand I like is around $10 (Montana) but you could even go under $5 if you choose Posca! Sort of crazy!

You might think that one marker would make for an extremely boring mural, but I actually think that they can create a perfectly dynamic, yet minimalist look, which is sometimes more interesting than a ton of colors!

Here is one of the first murals I ever did - using 1 black acrylic marker.

I feel like it’s sooo easy to get caught up with trying to have the most supplies, or the newest, best products, but the truth is that having all that isn’t always the case. I absolutely love that wolf mural, and think it perfectly proves that sometimes it doesn’t take the biggest, baddest art supplies, just something simple.

Let’s get down to the details, what’s the process for this?

1. If your wall is white, use charcoal to outline what you will draw. Use the grid method to make it really simple: I grid out my paper in inch squares, and then do equivalent 1’x1’ squares on the wall.

2. Decide which marker you want to use. Black markers are not all created equal. Some have better coverage, some have more shine, and you can choose whatever thickness you want. For the mural above, I used Montana acrylic marker 15mm.

3. Trace your chalk/charcoal lines and enjoy the process. I always listen to a book on my iPhone!

Remember: Start with simple Artwork

You do not have to make the most complex design in order to make a one-marker mural look cool. Actually it’s almost more challenging to make something super simple. The photo below is a great option to start with! Good luck!

And of course, take a fun photo of your work! Tag or DM me on Insta @haleybhop because I’d LOVE to see:)

If you’re ready for more tips and tricks, you can learn how to paint your own murals in my course “Paint Murals Like A Pro.” The entire course is available for you to start today right HERE.