Painting. For some, it is the best way to upgrade your living space without breaking the bank. For others, it is the thing of nightmares that only gets done ahead of moving. In either case, we have compiled a few of the best tips and tricks to help you get your rooms from “why did we pick this color” to “this is so much better!”
Your Forest Park painting journey may start with some questions. Why are you painting? If you are moving, neutral colors work best. These colors work well in any area and give your potential buyers a blank slate to work on. If you are looking for an updated look, finding color trends can help you bring your vision to life. What kind of room are you painting? Smaller areas are enhanced by lighter colors, it makes them feel more roomy, while darker colors create drama and are perfect for accent walls in larger rooms. Where are you painting? If you are painting in a busy area, an acrylic paint in an eggshell or satin finish is easy to clean and holds up to the wear and tear of life. If you are starting from scratch with drywall, primer is required because it fills in the small holes and means less coats later. Updating your trim color? An oil or acrylic paint in semi-gloss gives a smooth finish with less coats.
When beginning any painting project, your rooms will need to be prepped to allow for the best coverage and hassle-free pick up. Begin this by washing your walls to remove any dust. Even the slightest hint of particles of dust can cause your paint to clump and make unwanted texture on your walls. Next, set up the area you will be painting. Put down drop cloths, tape off any areas that are not going to painted, remove any hardware from the walls, and fix any holes. After that, you should prime. Primer helps get rid of darker colors, can help create a moisture barrier, and even out any trivial imperfections. Now you’re ready to paint!
We have compiled some of our popular painting ticks for you!
- A rubber band placed on your paint can lets you wipe off extra paint and keeps the can clean.
- Pick up a small container of paint to check how ambient light affects the paint color.
- Putting a grocery bag in the bottom of your paint tray makes a perfect liner.
- Painting in a ‘W’ pattern gives you the most even coverage.
- Taking the tape off about 24 hours after painting cuts down on the chance of peeling paint.
- The less humid the weather, the less likely drips are and the drying time of the paint will be less.
- Low VOC paint, (like the ones we carry here at Schauer's Hardware,) help avoid chemical seeping.
- Better brushes = better application.
- Got wallpaper? Fabric softener works well to remove it (please remember you have to wash the wall afterwards.)
- Mix the cans of paint needed for a room together in one large container, this will help avoid slight changes in color.
Or watch this video for 22 tips and tricks:
Whether you are a painting vet, a new home owner, or someone wanting a new look, Schauer's Hardware is your one stop shop for
Forest Park painting ideas, supplies, and how-tos.