Quick and easy painting and decorating

Painting is quick and easy decorating. Pound for pound, paint is the quickest, easiest and most economical redecorating option. Combining new colours and decorative techniques on the ceilings, walls and trim can make your home come alive again.

The first step is to prepare the surface to paint. This important step will save tremendous amounts of time later. The surfaces have to be smoothed, cleaned and primed. Preparation will tremendously influence the final result. Colour washing is a subtle, elegant and easy finish to master. It is a form of antiquing with the goal to make the wall look old. Colour washing works well on textured walls as well as smooth walls. The painter would casually and lightly brush translucent coats of slightly differing colours over a base coat. To enhance the effect, use more than one glaze colour and work it in slightly. A darker shade of glaze should be added around the perimeter of the wall and in the room corners. It is a good idea to work with a partner when adding a wash to the wall. It will help to speed the process as well as help eliminate washing in an unconscious pattern.

Faux leather is a technique that achieves the look of leather or parchment. Natural leather does have imperfections, so do not be afraid for faux leather to have the same. First a base coat is painted on the wall and allowed to dry, followed by a glaze. Before the glaze dries, thin plastic bags or sheets are used to remove the wet glaze. This step creates a subtle texture and calming finish.

Ragging is used to create a diverse texture. It can help conceal an uneven surface. First a solid colour base coat of paint is applied to the surface and allowed to dry. Then a layer of glaze is applied with some of it removed before it dries. Roll a dry, loosely wrapped rag through the glaze to create the desired texture. Various textures may be created depending on the texture of the rag used. Cotton tee shirts work best, but rags can also be purchased at home or automobile centres. When choosing colours for the base coat and glaze, choose colours that are close on the colour wheel.

The most important step in painting is to enjoy yourself and take your time. The end result will definitely be worth the wait.

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