From Drab to Fab

Your Guide to Painting Prep and Paint Choices for a Stunning Home Makeover

Welcome, fellow DIY enthusiasts and paint aficionados! 🎨✨ Ready to turn your space from drab to fab? Whether you're sprucing up your living room or tackling a full-on home makeover, getting the prep work right and choosing the perfect paint can make all the difference. Grab your brushes, tapes, and drop cloths, because we're diving into the colorful world of painting with a splash of fun!

The Art of Prepping: Protecting Your Space Like a Pro

Before you even think about dipping your brush into that new paint can, let’s talk prep. It’s the unsung hero of any painting project and can make or break your results. Here’s your step-by-step guide to creating a clean and protected workspace:

1. Taping: Your Best Friend in Paint Protection Taping is essential to achieving crisp, clean lines and avoiding those pesky paint dribbles. Start by using painter’s tape along edges where walls meet ceilings, trim, and any other areas you want to keep paint-free. For best results, press down firmly and make sure the tape is straight. It might seem tedious, but trust us—those clean lines are worth it!

2. Painter Paper and Drop Cloths: Shielding Your Surfaces No one wants to discover a splotch of paint on their hardwood floors or cherished rug! Cover furniture with painter paper or old sheets, and lay down drop cloths to catch any drips. Drop cloths come in various sizes and materials, so choose one that fits your space and needs. For larger areas, a canvas drop cloth is durable and reusable, while plastic drop cloths are great for temporary coverage.

3. Plastic Wrap: The Ultimate Paint Barrier For anything you can't move or cover with a drop cloth, like light fixtures and outlets, use plastic wrap. Secure it with painter’s tape to prevent any paint from sneaking through. It's a quick and effective way to safeguard those hard-to-cover items.

Yes, your house will be in disarray...but trust the process.

You can never be too careful! Paint splatters!

Color Choices: Getting It Right the First Time

Now that your space is prepped, let’s talk color. Picking the perfect hue can be daunting, but fear not—sampling is your secret weapon. TAKE THE TIME TO DO THIS. I did not, and even worse, I color matched to an online photo of my daughter’s new teal comforter that had yet to arrive when I was choosing my paint colors. BIG MISTAKE. The comforter naturally looked different in person than it did in the online picture, and that resulted in a wasted gallon of Sherwin Williams “Cloudless” paint. After soliciting my my hubby’s help, we decided we would give “Spa” a try, knowing it would ultimately dry a shade darker and end up like our desired color of “Bora Bora. “ Here’s how to choose the right color the FIRST TIME without any regrets:

Blues can be tricky...

1. Sample Swatches: Test Before You Commit Purchase sample sizes of a few colors you’re considering. Paint large swatches on your wall and let them dry completely. Paint colors often look different wet versus dry, so give them time to set before making a final decision. Check the colors at different times of the day and in various lighting to see how they change.

2. Consider the Mood Think about the mood you want to create. Soft blues and greens are calming, while bold reds and oranges can energize a room. Choose a color that complements your existing decor and reflects the ambiance you desire.

Having the actual bedding helped us to color match the second time around....

Paint and Products: What You Need for a Perfect Finish

Let’s talk paint and the tools that’ll make your job easier:

1. Quality Paint Brushes and Rollers Invest in high-quality brushes and rollers. They may cost a bit more, but they make a significant difference in the application and finish of your paint. Look for brushes with angled tips for cutting in edges and rollers with the right nap length for your wall texture.

2. Paint Brands Not all paints are created equal. For long-lasting and beautiful results, opt for trusted brands like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, or Behr. These brands offer a range of finishes and colors that are durable and easy to work with.

Satin vs. Flat: The Glow-Up Your Walls Deserve

Now, let’s discuss finishes. You might think all paint is the same, but the finish can change everything:

1. Flat Paint Flat paint has no sheen and is great for hiding imperfections. It's ideal for ceilings and walls that aren't heavily used. However, it’s harder to clean and can scuff easily, so it’s not always the best choice for high-traffic areas.

2. Satin Paint Satin paint has a soft sheen that adds a touch of elegance to your walls. It’s more durable and easier to clean than flat paint, making it perfect for living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms. If you’re looking to upgrade from that builder-grade flat paint, satin is your go-to for a sophisticated look with a bit of shine.

Paint Types and Where to Use Them

Different surfaces require different paints. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Walls Use latex or acrylic paint for walls. These types are easy to apply, dry quickly, and are available in a variety of finishes, including matte, eggshell, and satin. They also offer good coverage and are easy to clean.

2. Crown Molding For crown molding and other trim work, opt for an oil-based or high-quality latex semi-gloss paint. Semi-gloss provides a nice shine and durability, making it perfect for highlighting architectural details and handling the wear and tear of high-traffic areas.

3. Doors Doors require a tougher paint to withstand frequent use. Go for a high-gloss or semi-gloss enamel paint. These paints offer durability and a sleek finish that makes doors stand out and look pristine.

4. Ceilings Ceiling paint is usually flat to minimize glare and hide imperfections. It’s formulated to adhere well and be splatter-resistant. Look for ceiling-specific paints that are easy to apply and give a smooth, even finish.

Final Thoughts: A Splash of Color Can Transform Your Space

Painting might seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you can transform any room into a masterpiece. Remember to prep your space thoroughly with taping, drop cloths, and plastic wrap to protect your surroundings. Choose your paint color wisely by sampling first, and select high-quality paints and tools for the best results.

Upgrading to a satin finish can give your walls a beautiful glow-up, while choosing the right paint type for different surfaces ensures a polished and professional look. So, roll up those sleeves, get your painting gear ready, and let’s bring some color and life to your home!

Happy painting, everyone! 🎨🖌️🏡