The Subtle Art of MASSIVE Scale

When it comes to painting murals, scaling your artwork to fit the wall is a crucial step. Whether you’re an experienced street artist like Shepard Fairey (Obey), Os Gemeos, or Philipe Pantone, or just starting out, there are a few techniques you can use to help make the process easier.

  1. Grid Method

The grid method is a simple and straightforward technique that requires a flat wall to work with. First, you need to determine the size of your wall and divide it evenly into a grid. Then, draw a similar grid over your artwork, making sure the grid squares are evenly placed. Finally, you can use this grid to scale your artwork up to the size of the wall.

  1. Freehand

This is a favourite technique among street artists, as it allows for a more organic and free-flowing approach to painting murals. You can either sketch the wall ratio onto paper or have the idea in your head and jump straight onto painting. Keep in mind, however, that this technique may not always be the best starting point, especially if precision is required.

  1. Projector

Using a projector can be very helpful when scaling your artwork for a mural. The quality and power of the projector will determine the size of the wall you can work with. When choosing a projector, consider a short-throw option if you’re working in a tight space or opt for a more powerful and brighter projector if you’re working outside. This technique is particularly useful for painting typography as a part of your mural.

  1. Overlay Method (Wonky Grid)

This technique involves using existing markings on the wall, or adding new markings using masking tape or paint, to create a grid. You then take a photo of the wall with the markings, and use an app like Procreate to superimpose your artwork over the photo. By adding transparency to the artwork, you can see the wall and markings through the artwork, and use them as reference points to start drawing lines on the wall. This technique can be combined with other techniques, such as freehand, to create a unique and eye-catching mural.