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The Painting’s on the Wall Before popping open the paint can, prep any room for a brand new hue 
There are two types of painting projects: big ones and bigger ones. Either way, painting doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right knowledge and tools, do-it-yourselfers can tackle a few rooms over a weekend, or redo the whole house in a couple. First, pinpoint the painting project. Re-painting can add or subdue color, create an intimate space (dark colors) or one that feels open and free (light colors). It’s all dependent upon the desired mood and effect. You’ll want to look into the condition of your walls before painting in case any work needs done. “I would say the majority of homes are drywall or plaster,” says Steve Revnew, a spokesman for Sherwin-Williams. “If it’s an older home, you’re going to find plaster; because of the age of those you might have to do a little repair.” A few touch-ups of plaster of paris and you should be set to prime and surface. If you’re using semi-gloss paint you’re going to want to sand the walls to dull them a bit. If you’re using a satin or flat paint, you want to make sure you thoroughly clean your walls so the paint doesn’t pick up any dirt or particles. Moisture-resistant paints are smart buys for the kitchen and bathroom, as are washable paints. If you’re keeping similar colors in the room, you probably don’t need to prime, says Revnew, but if it’s something dramatically different you’ll want to. A gray primer will help the development of dark colors, he says, but if you’re unsure of what to use ask the staff at your paint or hardware store what’s recommended or what products they’re using. When it comes to brushes and rollers, again, get some good advice from an expert. Higher quality brushes and roller covers will be less likely to break or fray, which means less splatter, dripping and mess. Also, buy as many dropcloths as you can if you’re not moving your furniture out. Disposable plastic ones can make the job even easier. If you’re moving your furniture, easy-move rollers work pretty well to move the pieces without a lot of effort, says Revnew. Finally, be sure to properly mask off trim and windows and all should be ready to go. If you have trouble masking, hand maskers – just like dispensers used for packing tape – can simplify the task. Revnew says blue masking tape works really well because it sticks but doesn’t adhere to the paint film. If windows concern you, you can buy maskers that fit right onto the window. Just like a painting, all that’s needed to transform a room are the right tools and vision, which will come to life on a plaster or drywall canvas. |
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