 |
Overview:
This project will show you how to paint a room. Nothing can make as big a change in a room's appearance as a fresh coat of paint. Here's how to get professional results in no time.
Materials:
primer, paint, painters' tape, ladder, cloth, rags, spackling compound, caulk, sandpaper, TSP surface cleaner
Tools You'll Need:
6-in-1 putty knife
Before You Begin:
Painting can be messy work. Pull your hair back and tuck it up under a barbara k! cap. Wear your barbara k! shirt to protect your clothing. Safety glasses can be helpful when painting the ceiling.
Barbara's Tips:
If you are using any other kind of paint than latex-based, be sure to keep your paint soaked rags, brushes, and rollers in a well-ventilated area. Putting them in an enclosed space (like a trash can with a lid) is an invitation for spontaneous combustion.
 |
|
Step 1: Preparation is Everything
Prepare the room: remove what furniture you can move what's left into the center of the room and cover. Tape around windows, doors and moldings. Put down cloths to protect floors. Miscellaneous preparations: remove cover plates cover switch handles and electrical outlets with masking tape. Loosen or remove cover plates from light fixtures. Paint during daylight hours if possible, or use an extension cord and bring in a light source from another room. Prepare the ceiling and walls: sand or scrape loose or flaky paint. Fill all nail and screw holes with spackling compound fill cracks with caulk. Wash all surfaces with TSP cleaner (available at your local home center or hardware store) to remove grease and dirt. Rinse well with water and allow surfaces to dry. Dust or vacuum as needed. You should plan to use one coat of primer and two coats of your finish paint. Always use primer on unpainted surfaces.
Step 2: Think Like Michelangelo
Start your masterpiece by painting the ceiling. Use a flat paint. Most ceilings will not require a first coat of primer. Don't worry if you get a little paint on the walls when you cut the edges. You'll paint over it later.
Step 3: Sketch an Outline
Paint into all the corners with a 2 or 3-inch paintbrush. Outline where the ceiling meets the wall, around doors and windows, above the baseboard and around any other detailing. Essentially – use your brush wherever a roller won't fit.
Step 4: Make Like Picasso
Pour a small amount of paint into the roller pan and roll away: first on the ceilings and then the walls. Most rollers have a standard 3/8" nap, but there are a number of rollers on the market that can give your walls special designer effects – without the designer price tag. If you are using a specialty roller, be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions and tips. Roll the paint on in a "W" about three feet wide, then fill in the spaces. Try to start rolling before the brushed on paint is dry in order to avoid paint lines. Paint from dry areas on to wet to reduce ridging. Clean up as you go. Cover cans or buckets to avoid spills, keep a rag handy to wipe up any drips. When you finish, replace all switch covers and plates and move your furniture back into place.
Step 5: Show off Your Work
Many important artists have openings to show off their work. Plan a party or just invite friends over to admire your creation. You did it yourself!
|
|
