I've been remodeling the master bathroom, giving it an old-fashioned, vaguely Victorian feel. I want to put beadboard wainscoting on the walls. I do not want to just buy sheets of beadboard paneling, glue it to the wall, and then add a thin chair rail and a tiny base.

That look is here, though I wouldn't want to say it was glued to the wall:


This is a little better, but I still think that the top rail/chair rail is too thin for the look I want:


This is the look I am looking for, I think:




And I found this diagram on how to put it together (but without the stile):


This is my question: The wainscoting was an afterthought, so there is no backing in the wall special for it, only the usual plates at the bottom and the studs. If I use planks, how to I make them stay? Is the little rabbet behind the top and bottom rails enough to hold them? Since they are tongue and groove would nailing the planks that are over the studs be enough? Can you put the nails in at an angle?

It will be painted a cream color to match the door and the other trim in the room.

Also, MDF or poplar? (steamy bathroom)

Thank you for all help, suggestions, or clarifying questions...

Cheers,
Banty


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