When we decided to update our library, we wanted to create a space that felt warm, inviting, and timeless. The previous setup featured wallpaper and a chair rail, which, while charming, no longer matched the cozy and cohesive aesthetic we envisioned with the rest of the house. Traditional shiplap was on our minds, but when we discovered Revolution Ply at Lowe’s, we found an affordable and customizable alternative that turned out even better than expected!

Why Revolution Ply?

Revolution Ply is a versatile 5mm poplar plywood that offers the perfect blend of affordability, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal. At a fraction of the cost of traditional shiplap, it provided a significant savings without sacrificing quality. Plus, it allowed us to fully customize the panel widths, something that’s harder to do with pre-made shiplap boards.

Our Process

Here’s how we turned Revolution Ply into a stunning shiplap-inspired feature for our library:

1. Cutting the Panels

To achieve the classic horizontal panel look, we cut the 4′ x 8′ sheets of Revolution Ply into 8-inch-wide strips. Using a Kreg edge guide and rip saw, we made precise cuts that ensured uniformity across the room. The ability to customize the width was a game-changer—it let us tailor the design to our space perfectly.

2. Installing the Panels

Installation was straightforward and beginner-friendly. We used a combination of 18-gauge finishing nails and Liquid Nails adhesive to secure each panel. The panels were lightweight and easy to handle, making this a manageable project for two people.

3. Creating the Gap

Instead of traditional spacers, we got creative and used the thickness of the ply itself (1/4 inch) to create evenly spaced gaps between the panels. This simple trick saved time and ensured a consistent and polished look.

4. The Finishing Touch

Once all the panels were in place, we painted the entire wall with Sohji White paint. The soft, warm hue elevated the look of the room, creating a bright and inviting space. The smooth surface of the Revolution Ply took the paint beautifully, resulting in a flawless finish.

The Cost Savings

One of the biggest wins of this project was the cost. Revolution Ply is significantly cheaper than traditional shiplap boards, which can quickly add up if you’re covering a large area. By cutting and customizing the panels ourselves, we not only saved money but also ended up with a unique look tailored to our library.

Why We Love It

• Customizable Widths: The ability to choose our panel width gave us creative control.
• Easy Installation: Lightweight panels and simple tools made the process smooth.
• Affordable: Revolution Ply offered the look of shiplap without the hefty price tag.
• Stunning Results: The finished wall adds texture and character to the library, making it a space we love spending time in.

This project proved that you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve a designer look. With a little creativity and some handy tools, Revolution Ply helped us transform our library into a cozy retreat that feels both modern and timeless.

Whether you’re tackling a similar project or just looking for an alternative to traditional shiplap, we highly recommend giving Revolution Ply a try!

What do you think of the transformation?