Free Home Design

A new coat of paint can refresh and revitalize any room in your house. Paint is also a very cost effective way to change the look of a room. The best part about interior painting is that almost anyone can do it—all you need is the right material and a little bit of knowledge.

Painting Supplies

Your supply needs will vary depending upon the room that you are painting and the type of paint that you are using, but here is a basic list to get you started:

• Paint. After you choose a color, you will also need to choose a finish. The finish determines how shiny the paint will be. Choices include flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Flat finish is hard to wipe clean and should only be used in low traffic areas that will not attract dirt. Satin, eggshell, and semi-gloss finishes are easy to wipe clean and can be used almost anywhere. Gloss finish is very shiny and is best reserved for small areas such as trim or molding.

• Paint Applicators. Paint rollers and brushes are necessities. A good paint roller can paint an entire room. Choose one that has a fair amount of nap to it– the thicker the better. When it comes to brushes, everyone has their own individual preference. A small angle brush works well for trim and corners. A three inch flat brush or a paint pad will work well for the places that a paint roller can not reach.

• Miscellaneous Supplies. In addition to paint and paint applicators, you may also need drop cloths, cleaning rags, paint trays, spackling, sandpaper, and a putty knife (if your walls are damaged and need repair), and a ladder or stepladder. The ladder will need to be sturdy and stable to support your movements. Try choosing a ladder with a wide base or a flared bottom like on a Little Giant Ladder.

Painting Tips

When painting, the most important thing you can do is take your time. If you move too fast, things could get sloppy. Also important, is the prep work. Your painting project will go much smoother if you are properly prepared prior to painting. Here are some tips that can help:

• Make sure that you have everything you need by organizing all of your supplies before you start painting.
• Protect your furniture from paint splatters by moving it or covering it up.
• Use low-tack masking tape to tape off baseboards and trim. Remove the tape before the paint dries.
• Paint the walls before painting trim or woodwork.
• Do not apply a second coat of paint until the first coat has dried.

You’re almost finished! The chocolate leather sofa set you ordered two months ago is in place. You have your coffee table aligned perfectly across from your new entertainment center. The antique bird cage in the corner is just perfect for that entrance wall. But you notice there’s something missing as you gaze upon your newly furnished room. Those pesky blank walls!


We have all been in a similar situation. Just how do we accessorize what is possibly the most important part of the room? Well Patricia Buzo, owner of Patricia’s Palette, has come up with eight unique ways to dress up those boring walls.


1.	Supersize your artwork with a trompe l’oeil wall mural.
A wall mural can do wonders for a blank, drab space by making the room appear larger and more inviting. The term “trompe l’oeil” literally means “fool the eye”. (Smart Tip: Wall murals can be combined with other ideas listed below such as # 6 and 7.)


2.	Embellish your blank space with a hanging tapestry.
Tapestries can be custom ordered in many sizes, bringing in a sophisticated and elegant piece of art. These can be made of fabric, leather, or hand painted canvas.


3.	Hang a stained glass window.
Obtain either salvaged pieces from churches and old buildings, or brand new ones made by local artisans. (Smart Tip: Place your old holiday lights behind the window to make the colors in the stained glass really glow.)


4.	Accent the area by hanging a decorative screen.
By using a semi-folded screen you can create an unusual 3-dimentional accent for your décor.


5.	Create a collage of your collectibles.
These can be anything from scenic photos to your stamp collection. (Smart Tip: To create a ‘garden room’ place inexpensive trailing silk plants in wicker baskets at various heights on the wall.)


6.	Fool ‘em with a ‘faux’ door.
Antique doors and windows salvaged from old buildings can be an excellent way to creatively fill up a blank wall. 


7.	Bring in dimension and texture with fabrics.
Fabric isn’t just for windows. Hang decorative fabrics from wall sconces and rods to create a unique “frame” for your wall.


8.	Spruce it up with an antique map.
Unlike your typical schoolhouse maps, these can be applied directly to your wall without the use of a frame. (Smart Tip: For authenticity any map can be “antiqued” with a faux finish for an old world feel.)