When you think of all the preparations involved in having a new baby, nine months might not seem like long enough. Compared to concerns about work, childcare and schedules, decorating your newborn baby's room is a joy instead of a task. Take the time to enjoy the creative process, and make your nursery a charming space for you and your baby.
Step 1
Visit movie stores and the library to browse the children's sections. Look for decorating inspiration and theme ideas, particularly from the classics--perhaps "Peter Pan," "Jungle Book" or "The Secret Garden." Buy the movie or check out the book once you've decided.
Step 2
Watch the movie or read the book, even if they're familiar favorites from your own childhood. Study the illustrations in picture books. Take notes on ideas you can incorporate into your newborn baby's room. Notice the details of the furnishings and interiors, especially if they're a notable part of the story.
Step 3
Shop for baby furniture, bedding, lighting, accessories and a rocking chair that complement your chosen theme. Take your notes with you, and your book if you have one. Choose objects and design details featured in your book or movie, or those that capture the overall feel--like a white, cottage-style crib and a wicker chest for a garden theme.
Step 4
Make a sketch based on your book or movie. Draw it in pencil first, and then trace the lines with a fine-tipped marker. Enlist an artistic friend to help or commission an artist if you can't draw.
Step 5
Rent or borrow an overhead projector. Darken the baby's room and project your sketch onto one of the walls, which enlarges the image. Trace the projected image with a pencil.
Step 6
Buy paintbrushes and paint for your mural. Select colors used in the book or movie. Choose a coordinating pale color--neutral or pastel as appropriate--for the other three walls.
Step 7
Lay a drop cloth to protect your floor. Paint the mural in full color, using your pencil lines as a guide. Paint the other three walls with the pale color.
Step 8
Install the furniture, bedding, lighting and accessories. Add any final touches, including ideas from Step 2. Relax in your rocking chair and enjoy the finished result.
Tips and Warnings
- Make the wall mural the focal point of your baby's room. Position the crib where your baby can see the mural. She'll won't notice it as a newborn, but she'll enjoy looking at the mural when she's a bit older.
- When you're designing your wall mural, don't copy a book illustration exactly unless you've obtained permission or the copyright has expired.
Things You'll Need
- Children's book or movie
- Pencil
- Notebook
- Baby furniture
- Baby bedding
- Lighting
- Accessories
- Rocking chair
- Sketch pad
- Fine-tipped marker
- Overhead projector
- Multiple colors of mural paint
- Wall paint
- Drop cloth
- Paint brushes
- Paint rollers
References
- "Children's Spaces: From Zero to Ten"; Judith Wilson; 2008
- "Room for Children: Stylish Spaces for Sleep and Play"; Susanna Salk; 2010
- Gwen Lauster-Carpenter; Carpenter & Carpenter Designs; Memphis, Tennessee
