Shiplap, the rustic and charming design element, has become synonymous with the modern farmhouse aesthetic, thanks in large part to the creative genius of Joanna Gaines. As the star of HGTV’s hit show Fixer Upper, Joanna has captivated audiences with her impeccable taste and innovative designs, often featuring shiplap as a key component. But have you ever wondered what materials she uses to achieve that signature look? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of shiplap and uncover the secrets behind Joanna Gaines’ go-to materials for creating this beloved design feature.
The Origins of Shiplap
Before we dive into Joanna’s preferences, it’s essential to understand the history and purpose of shiplap. Shiplap, also known as “rabbet and lap” or “nickel gap,” has been around for centuries, originating in Europe as a practical way to construct wooden buildings. The traditional method involved overlapping horizontal boards, with a rabbet (a recessed area) cut into the top and bottom of each plank, creating a flush joint. This design allowed for easy installation, durability, and protection from the elements.
Over time, shiplap evolved to become a decorative element, particularly in rustic and country-style homes. The classic look of horizontal boards, often weathered to perfection, adds warmth, character, and texture to any room. Today, shiplap is a staple in modern farmhouse design, and Joanna Gaines is undoubtedly one of its most prominent advocates.
Joanna Gaines’ Shiplap Philosophy
Joanna Gaines’ love for shiplap is no secret. She often incorporates it into her designs, using it to add visual interest, create a sense of continuity, and evoke a cozy, rustic charm. In her book, Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces That Nurture the Soul and Inspire the Spirit, Joanna shares her approach to shiplap, emphasizing the importance of balance and restraint. She recommends using shiplap as an accent wall or feature, rather than covering entire rooms, to avoid overwhelming the senses.
Joanna’s shiplap philosophy can be summed up in three key points:
- Balance: Shiplap should be used to create visual interest, not overwhelm the space.
- Restraint: Use shiplap judiciously, as an accent wall or feature, to avoid overdoing it.
- Authenticity: Shiplap should look organic and rustic, rather than perfectly uniform and manufactured.
What Does Joanna Gaines Use for Shiplap?
Now, onto the million-dollar question: what materials does Joanna Gaines use to create her signature shiplap look? While she hasn’t explicitly revealed her secrets, we can make some educated guesses based on her designs and preferences.
Lumber Options
Joanna often favors rough-hewn, rustic lumber for her shiplap projects. This type of wood is typically:
- Reclaimed: Salvaged from old barns, fences, or other structures, adding character and history to the design.
- Distressed: Weathered to perfection, with imperfections and knots that add to the rustic charm.
- Primitive: Left in its natural state, without excessive processing or refinement.
Some popular types of lumber that might fit the bill include:
- Cypress: A durable, rot-resistant wood with a natural resistance to insects and decay.
- Cedar: Aromatic, durable, and resistant to rot and insects, with a distinctive, rustic appearance.
- Reclaimed Oak: A popular choice for shiplap, with a rich, weathered patina and plenty of character.
Paneling Options
For a more streamlined, budget-friendly option, Joanna might opt for shiplap paneling. This can include:
- Plywood: A cost-effective, engineered wood product made from layers of wood veneer.
- Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF): A dense, flat, and affordable material ideal for creating a uniform shiplap look.
- Engineered Wood Panels: A composite material made from wood fibers, offering a balance of durability and affordability.
Finishing Touches
To achieve that signature Joanna Gaines look, it’s essential to consider the finishing touches. Some popular options include:
- Staining: Applying a stain to enhance the natural beauty of the wood and add warmth to the design.
- Weathering: Allowing the wood to weather naturally, or using a weathering process to create a distressed, rustic appearance.
- Sealing: Applying a clear coat to protect the wood and enhance its durability.
Tips for Achieving Joanna Gaines’ Shiplap Look
If you’re inspired to create your own shiplap feature wall or accent, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:
- Start with high-quality materials: Invest in good-quality lumber or paneling to ensure a durable, long-lasting finish.
- Measure and plan carefully: Take precise measurements, and plan your design to avoid mistakes and waste.
- Keep it simple: Don’t overcomplicate the design; focus on clean lines, and a balanced, rustic aesthetic.
- Add texture and interest: Incorporate other natural elements, like brick, stone, or reclaimed wood, to add depth and visual interest to your design.
Conclusion
Joanna Gaines’ signature shiplap look is a testament to her creative genius and passion for rustic, country-style design. By understanding the history and purpose of shiplap, as well as Joanna’s approach and material preferences, you can create your own stunning feature walls and accents that evoke the warmth and character of her designs. Remember to balance, restrain, and keep it authentic – and don’t be afraid to add your own personal touch to make the look truly yours.
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Rough-Hewn Lumber | Rustic, weathered wood with imperfections and knots |
| Reclaimed Wood | Salvaged from old structures, adding character and history |
| Cypress | Durable, rot-resistant wood with a natural resistance to insects and decay |
| Cedar | Aromatic, durable wood with a distinctive, rustic appearance |
| Reclaimed Oak | Rich, weathered patina and plenty of character |
| Plywood | Cost-effective, engineered wood product made from layers of wood veneer |
| MDF | Dense, flat, and affordable material ideal for creating a uniform shiplap look |
| Engineered Wood Panels | Composite material made from wood fibers, offering a balance of durability and affordability |
Note: The table provides a summary of the materials discussed in the article, including their descriptions and characteristics.
What is shiplap and why is it so popular?
Shiplap is a type of wooden board that is commonly used for decorative purposes in home design. It is characterized by its horizontal boards with a rabbet joint, which creates a rustic and charming look. Shiplap has become extremely popular in recent years, thanks in part to the influence of home renovation celebrities like Joanna Gaines. Its rustic charm and versatility make it a popular choice for adding texture and visual interest to walls, ceilings, and even furniture.
One of the reasons shiplap is so popular is that it can be used in a variety of design styles, from modern farmhouse to rustic cottage. It’s also a great way to add depth and dimension to a room, and it can be stained or painted to match any color scheme. Additionally, shiplap is relatively easy to install, making it a DIY-friendly project for homeowners. Overall, shiplap’s unique look and versatility have made it a staple of modern home design.
What type of wood does Joanna Gaines use for her shiplap?
According to Joanna Gaines, her go-to material for shiplap is rough-sawn cedar. She loves the natural texture and rustic charm that cedar brings to her designs. Rough-sawn cedar is a great choice for shiplap because it has a more rustic, unfinished look that adds to the charm of the design. Additionally, cedar is a durable and rot-resistant wood that can withstand the elements, making it a great choice for outdoor and indoor projects.
Joanna Gaines often uses rough-sawn cedar for her exterior shiplap projects, such as exterior accent walls or porch ceilings. She also likes to use it for interior projects, such as accent walls or ceilings, to add a touch of rustic charm to a room. While other types of wood, such as pine or spruce, can also be used for shiplap, rough-sawn cedar is Joanna’s top choice for its unique look and durability.
What is the difference between smooth shiplap and rough-sawn shiplap?
The main difference between smooth shiplap and rough-sawn shiplap is the texture and finish of the wood. Smooth shiplap has a planed, smooth finish that is similar to traditional lumber. It is often used for a more modern, clean look and can be stained or painted to achieve a specific color. Rough-sawn shiplap, on the other hand, has a more rustic, textured finish that is left in its natural state.
Rough-sawn shiplap is often preferred by designers like Joanna Gaines because of its unique, rustic charm. The rough texture adds depth and visual interest to a design, and it can be left unstained or unpainted to showcase its natural beauty. Smooth shiplap, on the other hand, provides a more polished look that is often preferred for modern or contemporary designs.
Can I use reclaimed wood for my shiplap project?
Yes, absolutely! Reclaimed wood can be a great choice for shiplap projects, especially if you’re looking to add a touch of history and character to your design. Reclaimed wood has already been weathered and aged, giving it a unique patina that is full of character. It can be sourced from old barns, factories, or other buildings, and it’s a great way to reduce waste and reuse materials.
When using reclaimed wood for shiplap, it’s essential to inspect the wood carefully for any damage or rot. You may also need to clean and de-nail the wood before using it for your project. Additionally, reclaimed wood may require more tweaking and fitting during installation, as the boards may be irregularly shaped or warped. However, the end result is well worth the extra effort, as reclaimed wood shiplap can add a level of depth and character to your design that is hard to achieve with new wood.
How do I install shiplap?
Installing shiplap is relatively easy, but it does require some planning and preparation. First, you’ll need to determine the number of boards you’ll need for your project, based on the size of the area you’re covering. Next, cut the boards to size, using a miter saw or circular saw. Then, starting from the bottom, begin installing the boards, using a level to ensure they’re straight.
As you install the boards, use a combination of nails and construction adhesive to secure them to the wall or ceiling. Make sure to leave a small gap (about 1/8 inch) between each board to allow for expansion and contraction. Once all the boards are installed, you can fill the gaps with caulk or joint compound, and then sand and finish the wood to achieve the desired look.
Can I use shiplap on my ceiling?
Yes, shiplap can be a great choice for ceilings, especially in porches, outdoor kitchens, or rustic-themed rooms. Installing shiplap on a ceiling can add a touch of rustic charm and visual interest to the space. However, it’s essential to ensure that the ceiling is structurally sound and can support the weight of the shiplap.
When installing shiplap on a ceiling, make sure to use a sturdy backing material, such as plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), to provide additional support. You’ll also need to ensure that the shiplap boards are securely fastened to the backing material, using screws or nails. Finally, consider adding a layer of drywall or joint compound to the ceiling to create a smooth surface and hide any gaps or seams.
How do I finish and maintain my shiplap?
Finishing and maintaining your shiplap is crucial to ensuring it looks great and lasts for years to come. Depending on the type of wood you’ve used, you may want to stain or paint the shiplap to achieve the desired color and texture. For rough-sawn cedar, Joanna Gaines often recommends leaving it unfinished to preserve its natural beauty.
To maintain your shiplap, make sure to clean it regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust. For outdoor shiplap, you may need to apply a waterproof sealant to protect it from the elements. Additionally, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the wood or strip away its natural finish. With proper maintenance, your shiplap can remain a beautiful focal point in your home for years to come.