5 Things to Know Before Commissioning a Custom Mural

A custom mural can completely transform a space — whether it's your living room, a restaurant, an office lobby, or an exterior wall. After painting murals for years, here are the five things I wish every client knew before starting a project.

1. Choose the Right Wall

Not every wall is ideal for a mural. Here's what to look for:

• Smooth surfaces work best — drywall, plaster, or smooth concrete are ideal. Heavily textured walls make fine detail difficult.
• Consider lighting — a wall that gets good natural or artificial light will showcase the mural better.
• Indoor vs. outdoor — outdoor murals need weather-resistant paint and a sealed finish. Indoor murals have more flexibility with materials.
• Size matters — a larger wall gives the artist more room to create impact, but even small accent murals can be stunning.

2. Understand the Timeline

A custom mural isn't a one-day job. Here's a realistic timeline:

• Design phase: 1-2 weeks — discussing your vision, sketching concepts, and getting approval
• Wall preparation: 1-2 days — priming, base coating, and ensuring the surface is ready
• Painting: 3-14 days depending on size and complexity
• Sealing: 1 day — applying a protective clear coat

For a typical residential mural (8ft x 10ft), expect about 1-2 weeks from start to finish.

3. Know What Affects the Cost

Mural pricing varies widely. The main factors are:

• Size — larger murals cost more (priced per square foot or as a flat rate)
• Complexity — photorealistic portraits take much longer than abstract designs
• Location — hard-to-reach areas, high walls, or outdoor conditions can add to the cost
• Materials — outdoor murals require specialized UV-resistant paints

Always get a detailed quote upfront. A good mural artist will break down the cost so there are no surprises.

4. Communicate Your Vision Clearly

The best murals come from good communication. Before reaching out to an artist:

• Collect reference images of styles, colors, and themes you like (Pinterest is great for this)
• Know your color palette — should it match your existing decor?
• Describe the mood — calming, energetic, playful, dramatic?
• Be open to the artist's creative input — we often have ideas that can elevate your concept

5. Maintenance Is Simple

Once your mural is sealed, it's surprisingly low-maintenance:

• Indoor murals — dust gently, wipe with a damp cloth if needed. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Outdoor murals — a clear UV-protective sealant should be reapplied every 2-3 years to prevent fading.
• A well-painted and sealed mural can last 10-15 years or more.