The Technical Process of a Mural – What YOU Don’t See

Before a single drop of paint touches the wall, every mural starts with proper preparation to make sure that the execution phase will be smooth and efficiant. I'll take you into my thought processes that are done before being in front of the wall – the exciting part you rarely see, but which is essential for a successful mural.

The Beginning

No matter how large the wall is, what shape it has, or what color world it will hold, the mural process always starts in my sketchbook.

When the first lines are set, I move to the computer to digitize the design. Here I can work with exact color values by using systems like the PAL color system or the palette of a specific spray paint brand.

Whenever possible, I design directly on the photo of the actual wall. If that doesn’t exist yet – for example, in the case of a new building – I create a 3D model from architectural plans. Ideally, the architecture firm provides me with their 3D model. That’s incredibly helpful because it allows us to experience the visual impact of the piece in the digital space beforehand.

Fun fact: As a former video game designer I am stoked to recall these skills now into my artistic process. I love using the digital space to give my clients a realistic preview of their mural before a single stroke hits the wall.

What YOU Don’t See

Once the design is finalized, preparation phase starts. I calculate the paint needed per square meter. I analyze how much of each color will be used within specific areas. This forms the basis of my material planning and ordering.

In parallel, I prepare the design so I can transfer it precisely onto the wall. This involves defining clear lines for the large color areas. These lines are the foundation – they set the proportions and I need them to be perfectly placed. Everything that follows builds on them.

To transfer these lines onto the wall, I use various techniques depending on the project. The best-known is the "doodle grid" technique, which is extremely efficient and great for large-scale murals. If the wall won’t be fully painted, I use alternative methods – like creating a grid with Scotch tape. The benefit here is that it leaves no marks, allowing me to apply the design cleanly and precisely while leaving parts of the original wall visible and not touched. Depending on the technique I will use, I prepare the sketch accordingly to that.

The Mural Process On the Wall

On the first day of execution, I arrive at the prepared wall. I'll apply the grid using the chosen technique that is appropriate for the wall’s characteristics and the design’s requirements. When the grid is set I'll transfer the sketch onto the wall. Once the foundation lines are in place, I will start filling in the color areas and will finish by rendering the details.

As a final step, I seal the painting if necessary. This is usually the case with sensitive paint tones such as fluorescent colors that aren’t naturally UV-resistant.

The Most Important Act Is On You

Ideally, a project ends with an inauguration celebration. The new artwork is honored, admired, and shared with others. And yes – I love being invited! Even though my schedule is usually packed, if we plan the celebration right after completion, I’m absolutely there with full energy. There’s nothing better than celebrating something freshly created together and people are always looking for celebrations. So why not taking the occasion to create a bonding moment in your community.

For Businesses and Planners

I regularly collaborate with architecture firms, hotels, companies and institutions that are looking for design solutions that go beyond decoration. My murals tell stories, create identity, and transform places into emotional experiences. Thanks to my expertise with digital planning tools, 3D models, and architectural sensitivity, I, in addition to the art, provide a professional, structured process and clear communication on equal footing.

If you're planning a project where art should shape the space – whether it’s a public plaza, hotel lobby, office building, or exterior wall – I’d love to connect. Let’s explore how we can bring your vision to life.