The finger panel is a versatile and stylish material that brings warmth and character to the interior. With it, you can easily refresh your home's look without major renovations.
In this blog post, we share tips on how you can use finger panels in different spaces and furniture, bringing a new look to your home by doing it yourself.
Easily refresh the bedroom's look with a finger panel
With a finger panel, you can update the bedroom into a warm and modern space in no time. Wood as a material is an ideal choice for the bedroom because it calms the mind and has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, helping us relax. Research results show that even sleep quality is better in a room with wooden furnishings. Read more about the health benefits of wood here.
A wonderfully cozy space was created from a cold white bedroom finger panel treated in alder tar shade.
The soft design language of the finger panel is calm and timeless. The panel's beautiful profile refracts light very beautifully, leaving atmospheric, soft shadows between the rounded slats. If you wish, you can highlight these features with well-designed lighting.
There are many options for implementation: you can panel the entire end wall, create a movable bed headboard element, or make a cozy recess for the bed using cabinets and paneling. You can also panel only the part of the wall where the bed is placed. This way, the paneled section also serves as the bed's headboard. The solution gives the space structure and the bedroom's look doesn't feel disconnected.
A paneled wall behind the bed adds structure to the space and brings natural warmth to a light bedroom.
A movable headboard made of finger panels is an excellent option for rental apartments where permanent changes are not possible. The headboard can be designed in many different ways. Make it deep enough to also function as a practical shelf surface or complement it with separate nightstands. Atmospheric finishing can be achieved with lamps and beautiful textiles. Functionality and a polished look are enhanced by integrated power outlets.
See how Siiri Niemi from the Siiri & Siiri blog created a striking headboard from finger panels.
Refresh the look of furniture with finger panels
Old furniture gets a new life with finger panels. Attach the panels, for example, to the surface of a dresser or cabinet door to create a new, textured look. This method is especially suitable for simple furniture with large, flat surfaces where the panels are easy to attach. This way, even simple furniture becomes striking eye-catchers. You can also try painting the panels in different colors to create personalized and unique furniture.
Jaana Vaholuoto customized an old IKEA cabinet with semi-circular moldings. The old cabinet got a new paint finish, legs, and handles, and the front doors were covered using semi-circular moldings. Finger panels could also be used instead of moldings. Check out the DIY project by Jaana in the blog.
Forget tiles – a beautiful backsplash is created with finger panels
The kitchen or utility room backsplash doesn't always have to be tiled. Whether you're renovating an old space or building a completely new one, you can make the backsplash a striking detail by covering it with finger panels. The panel is a great alternative to traditional tiles, bringing warmth and coziness to the space.
The panels withstand the moisture of the space well, as long as they are treated properly. In the kitchen, you can also use glass over the panel if desired. Choose the panel shades harmoniously with the kitchen cabinets and countertops, or bring contrast with different colors. The panels are easy and quick to install, and the material can be maintained over time. Panel vertically or horizontally as you like.
A paneled backsplash is a beautiful and timeless detail.
You can try the same idea, for example, on a breakfast cabinet. The paneled back of the cabinet is so beautiful that you won’t even want to close the cabinet doors! The back of this breakfast cabinet is paneled with modern Dyyni paneling, but an equally beautiful result can be achieved with finger paneling.
Cover the island with finger paneling
The kitchen island is the focal point and gathering place in many homes. By covering the sides of the island with finger paneling, you can easily create a new look and texture in the space with little effort. The paneling can be applied to every side of the island or highlight one side by leaving the others unpaneled.
Panels can be installed vertically or horizontally depending on the desired outcome and the visual impression of the space. Vertical paneling is perhaps a slightly more modern option that emphasizes height, while horizontal paneling is a timeless choice that highlights width.
Marjaana, who runs the Meidän kodissa Instagram account, renovated the white kitchen island with Dyyni paneling.
Paneled finger panel wall
With finger paneling, you can make your home even more inviting by adding texture and warmth to your chosen spaces. Whether it’s the living room, hallway, or study, a wall covered with paneling is a striking and atmospheric addition.
Paneling an entire wall may seem daunting, but in fact, it’s not very difficult and even a home handyman can manage it! Grab our paneling guide tips for paneling and a stunning result is guaranteed! You can install the panels either horizontally or vertically, and treat them with your desired shade or choose pre-treated the product. Thermally treated with the product you get a lovely warm yet natural result. White lacquered the product, on the other hand, is a fresh and timeless choice. Choose wood-ready panel, if you want to treat the product yourself in your chosen shade.
Tips for a successful DIY project
- Measure carefully: Before installation, make sure to measure the wall or installation site accurately and plan the panel layout carefully before attaching
- Preparation: Ensure that the surface to which the panels are attached is even and clean. Perform necessary preparations, such as framing.
- Proper attachment: Use the right fastening materials according to the panel material and the mounting surface. Attachment options include, for example, a finishing nailer and mounting adhesive.
- Finishing: Treat the panels with a suitable finish for the space. Especially when used in moist areas, the panels should be treated to protect them from moisture and dirt. Remember to treat the panels before attachment.
Easy DIY ideas for every home:
- Create an inviting and warm relaxation spot in the bedroom with finger paneling
- Bring old furniture up to date with a little tweaking
- Forget tiles – a beautiful backsplash can also be made from finger paneling
- Add character and texture to the island easily with paneling
- A whole wall with finger paneling is surprisingly easy to implement
Finger panel offers endless possibilities for renewing and decorating your home. It is an easy and affordable way to bring a new look and personality to your home. Try these ideas and get inspired to create something new in your own home!
