DIY Acoustic Panel Plans (Video + Free PDF)

 

Click Here to Get Free Detailed PDF Plans!

Are you struggling with echo or poor sound quality in your home studio or entertainment space? Building DIY acoustic panels is a great way to get started on transforming your sound environment.

If you’re not sure about where to start, let us help! Click here to get your free room analysis, and we’ll provide expert advice on how to optimize your space.

Materials Needed

For the Panel

For Mounting

  • Z clips (for wall mounting) aka French Cleat
  • Eyelets (for ceiling mounting)
  • Concrete anchors (if mounting to concrete walls/ceiling)

Tools

  • Staple gun
  • Drill
  • Hand saw or miter saw
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Speed square (optional, for accurate measurements)
  • Safety goggles
  • Work gloves
  • Respirator mask (for handling insulation)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Measure and Cut the Lumber

  • Measure and mark the 1x4 lumber to create the frame.
  • Cut four pieces to 15.25 inches each for the short sides.
  • Cut two pieces to 48.5 inches each for the long sides.

Assemble the Frame

  • Lay out two 15.25-inch pieces and the two 48.5-inch pieces to form a rectangle.

  • Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting, then use wood screws to attach the pieces together at the corners.

  • Drive two screws at each connection point.

  • Use the remaining two  15.25-inch pieces as backing. We suggest mounting them 7 inches from each end of the frame. Sit the frame with the front facing up and lay the two 15.25-inch flush against the work surface. These pieces will add stability, and give anchors for mounting. 

Add Backing Fabric

  • Cut a piece of fabric so that it is a little bigger than the frame. Staple it to the inside of the frame starting at the corners and working in. 
  • Landscape fabric, old sheets, or burlap are good choices. We used leftover landscape fabric in the video because it was sitting in the garage. You can also use acoustical fabric which will help if there is an air gap between the wall and the panel which will add more sound absorption power. 

Add Insulation

  • Set the insulation directly on top of the backing fabric. It should fit perfectly into the frame as these frames were designed specifically for the 15.25-in W x 47-in L insulation pieces readily available at your local hardware store. 

Cover with Acoustical Fabric

 

  • Lay the pre-cut SoundAssured acoustical fabric (59x36") on a flat, clean work surface.
  • Flip the stuffed frame over and place the assembled frame on top of the fabric.
  • Pull the fabric tightly around the frame, making sure it is smooth and wrinkle-free.
  • Use the staple gun to attach the fabric to the back of the frame, securing it every few inches. Start at the center of each side and work outwards to the corners.
  • Tuck the fabric at the corners for a clean finish and secure with additional staples. (See video for close up of how to fold corners)

Check out our acoustical fabric colors!

Mounting the Panels

For Wall Mounting

  • Attach Z clips to the back of the frame using wood screws.
  • Install the corresponding Z clip on the wall at the desired location.
  • Hang the panel by fitting the Z clips together.

For Ceiling Mounting

  • Install eyelets into the backing pieces of the frame.
  • Use appropriate anchors or hooks to attach the eyelets to the ceiling.
  • Make sure to place the eyelets and hooks in a way that evenly distributes the panel's weight.

Adding LED Backlights To Your Acoustic Panel

 

@soundassured_acoustics Used battery powered LEDs to backilight pur acoustic panels. They can also plug in via USB. Check out the DIY acoustic panel video pinned to our profile to check out how to male the panels. #acousticpanels #homedecor #homerecordingstudio #recordingstudio #ledlights ♬ Relaxed (Sped Up) - MC Mablo Dos Paredões

 

  • Attach 13-inch 2x4s to the back braces of the panel.
  • Wrap the LED lights around the 2x4s, using the self-adhesive backing to secure them at the start and end.
  •  In the video we used these LEDs
    • Mount the panel using D-rings and a wire.
    • The 3/4-inch air gap provides extra sound absorption and gives the backlit acoustic panel a sleek, modern appearance!

    Don't Feel Like Doing All That Work?

    If you’d rather skip the DIY route, no worries — we can make custom acoustic panels for you. Check out our pre-made acoustic panels for easy, professional solutions.

    Not Sure About How To Treat Your Room?

    Building DIY acoustic panels is a fantastic way to improve sound quality, whether you’re setting up a home recording studio or reducing noise in any space. Following the right steps ensures top-notch results. But if you’re not sure how to optimize your room or need personalized guidance, we’re here to help!

    Take the next step by scheduling a free phone consultation with our acoustic experts. We’ll guide you through the process, offer tailored recommendations, and help you choose the best materials for your space. Whether you need soundproofing tips or want to know how to build acoustic panels, we’ve got you covered.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do acoustic panels really work? ▶
    Yes, acoustic panels absolutely work when used correctly. Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound waves, which helps reduce echo, reverb, and unwanted reflections in a room. This creates a cleaner, more controlled sound environment.

    Whether you’re treating a home studio, podcast room, home theater, or office space, acoustic panels can make a noticeable difference in speech clarity, mix accuracy, and overall listening quality.
    How do I know which panels are right for my room? ▶
    Every space is unique. You can contact us for a free room analysis, or check out our guides under the “Learn” section.

    Absorption panels help reduce echo and reverb. We offer foam panels and fabric covered panels.

    Diffusers scatter sound for a more balanced feel.

    Bass traps help control low frequencies that tend to build up in corners.

    If you’re trying to block sound from entering or leaving a room, you’ll need soundproofing materials, which are different from acoustic treatments.
    Can I order samples? ▶
    Yes, we offer acoustic foam samples and well as fabric color swatches. If you are looking for something else please Contact Us.

    Order Foam Samples
    Order Fabric Swatches
    What’s the difference between soundproofing and acoustic treatment? ▶
    Soundproofing blocks sound from entering or leaving a room. Acoustic treatment improves sound inside the room by reducing echo and reverb.
    Can acoustic panels improve speech clarity? ▶
    Yes! Acoustic panels are commonly used in offices, conference rooms, and classrooms to reduce echo and improve speech intelligibility. By absorbing excess sound and reverb, panels make it easier to hear and understand spoken words—even at lower volumes.

    Want help improving clarity in your space? Contact us here.
    Do acoustic panels block outside noise? ▶
    Standard acoustic panels don’t block sound—they absorb it. Acoustic panels reduce echo and reverb inside a room but won’t stop external noise from entering or leaving.

    If you’re looking for soundproofing, you’ll need materials designed to block sound transmission like mass loaded vinyl, or decoupled wall systems. We offer select products for this—Contact Us to learn more.

    Learn the difference between soundproofing and sound absorption here.
    Where should I place acoustic panels? ▶
    The best placement depends on your room and goals. For general echo reduction, aim to cover 20–30% of your wall space. For recording studios, home theaters, or listening rooms, focus on:

    • Front wall behind speakers
    • Back wall behind the listening position
    • Side wall reflection points
    • Ceiling above your desk or seating area
    • Diffusers at key reflection points for natural sound

    Need help with placement? Contact us for a free custom recommendation.
    Do these panels work for podcasting, streaming, or music production? ▶
    Absolutely. We serve customers across all industries — from home offices to professional studios.
    What fabric is best for wrapping acoustic panels? ▶
    To get the best sound performance, use acoustically transparent fabric—material that lets sound pass through easily. A simple test: try breathing through the fabric. If air flows freely, it’s likely a good choice. Avoid dense materials like heavy denim or canvas, as they can block sound instead of letting it be absorbed.

    Looking for a proven solution? Our professional-grade acoustical fabric is highly rated by customers and perfect for DIY acoustic panels.

    Shop acoustic fabric here or contact us if you need help picking the right fabric for your project.
    Can I order custom-sized acoustic panels? ▶
    Yes! In addition to our standard panel sizes, we offer custom-sized acoustic panels for unique spaces, specialty builds, and large-scale projects. Just let us know your dimensions and design goals—we’re happy to create a solution that fits your space perfectly.

    Contact us here to tell us about your project and get a custom quote.
    Do you offer custom sizes or colors? ▶
    Yes, we offer custom sizing and a variety of colors on select products. Just reach out and let us know what you need.

    Contact Us for custom quotes.
    Are your products easy to install? ▶
    Yes! Our fabric-wrapped panels include mounting hardware. For acoustic foam, there are several easy mounting options, including double-sided adhesive squares, spray adhesive, or Command strips for installation without damaging your walls.

    Check out our install videos here.
    Do I need professional help to install acoustic panels? ▶
    Most acoustic panels are easy to install with basic tools and a little DIY experience. We make it simple by providing tutorial videos. Check out our install videos here.

    For more complex projects, we’re happy to guide you—or your contractor—through the process to ensure everything is done right.

    Contact us here if you need help with installation planning.
    How do you maintain acoustic panels? ▶
    Acoustic panels are low-maintenance and built to last with proper care. Here are some general tips:

    • Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth
    • Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment
    • Clean gently with compressed air
    • Spot clean with minimal moisture and dry immediately

    Always check your panel’s product specs for specific cleaning recommendations.

    Have questions about cleaning or care? Contact us here.
    How much do acoustical panels or soundproofing materials cost? ▶
    The cost of acoustic panels and soundproofing panels depends on your space and goals. We offer everything from affordable DIY acoustic foam to high-end custom panels for professional studios and luxury interiors. For an accurate quote, let us know your room size, usage, and sound goals—we’re happy to help you find the right solution for your budget.

    Fill out our free room analysis for personalized acoustic advice.
    How fast is shipping and fulfillment? ▶
    Most orders ship in 1-3 business days. Cut to order foam may take a little longer. If you need something in a hurry please Contact Us.
    Can acoustic panels be customized for my space? ▶
    Yes! We offer custom acoustic panels tailored to your exact dimensions, layout, and design goals. Whether you’re working with an odd-shaped wall, a unique room layout, or a specific aesthetic, we can create panels that fit perfectly.

    Choose from a wide range of colors and fabrics to match your space without sacrificing performance.

    Contact us here to tell us about your space and get a custom solution.