I was quoted $1200 to do this so I did it for $50

From my experience working on this panel installation, one of the most important steps is to make sure you have a clear guideline before you start gluing. As mentioned, positioning all panels first using painter's tape creates a perfect reference that helps avoid mistakes when permanently gluing. I recommend using a repositionable glue that allows minor adjustments within 30 minutes. This feature was crucial for me, as it gave me time to reposition panels slightly until they fit perfectly. Also, wiping off any excess glue immediately is essential since you will be painting over it later, and dried glue spots can be harder to cover. A challenge with mass-produced panels is the joints sometimes don't align perfectly. I found using wood filler to fill these gaps made a big difference in the final look. Applying filler carefully and smoothing it out before painting helped create a seamless finish. Some DIYers also suggest rubbing chalk on panel edges to reduce visibility of imperfect joints. Painting is the final key step. Once the filler dries, a quality paint layer binds everything together, covering glue marks and providing a uniform surface. Remember to always finish one panel section before moving on to the next to maintain consistency. This approach significantly reduced costs compared to a $1200 professional quote. It was time-consuming but incredibly rewarding to see the transformation and know I tackled it myself with just $50 in materials. If you are considering a similar project, I suggest practicing patience and taking your time with each step for the best outcome.