Time & Sanity Saving Painting Tips
If you’re like me, you are getting your home ready for the Holidays. No, I don’t mean pulling out the Christmas Tree (although, I am itching to do it!!). I am wrapping some much needed home improvement projects before decorating and hosting family, including painting our family room/office. (I’ll share more of that project, soon!)
Selecting paint colors can be overwhelming and the actual act of painting can be daunting. But, lucky for you, I am sharing some helpful time and sanity saving tips!
Where to Start?
There are so many paint brand, finish, and color options! Don’t fret! Asking yourself a few simple questions will help guide your decision when it comes to picking the best color for your space.
Things To Consider:
What do you want the room’s “vibe” to be? Are you looking for a cozy room for watching movies together? Are you looking for a relaxing retreat for you primary bedroom?
Example: for a cozier feeling room, select a warmer or darker shade of paint
What problems are you looking to solve? Are you wanting the space to appear bigger? Is there a lack of natural light?
Example: for a larger appearance-go with a lighter shade or a bright white
Consider the placement of the actual room. Is there a door that can be closed? Or is the room a “pass-through”? If other rooms are visible i.e a kitchen via a formal dining space, make sure the new paint color plays nicely off the existing colors.
Who is using the room? What is the function of the space? My go to is a eggshell finish, but depending on the traffic and users of the room you could do a more high gloss finish .
Selecting The Perfect Paint Color
Never finalize a paint color off of a paper card. Always, ALWAYS swatch a few colors in the actual room before committing to a shade.
A Few Pointers:
You can get a $5 sample can of paint from your hardware store or order a few peel and stick swatches from Samplize to better visualize colors, and the best part is that they are reusable!
Make sure you look at the colors at different times of the day, look at the walls with natural light and with the lights on. Colors will change drastically when light changes.
Remember paint will always dry DARKER than it goes on.
When I am testing colors, I like to pick additional shade on the swatch card if I am afraid the color may be too dark or light.
Don’t rush the decision, leave the swatches up for a few days. Color has a direct impact on your mood so its important to let the choices “simmer”.
I personally prefer Sherwin Williams brand paint (Ovation) but, there are many great options!
Rollers Up!
Ok, you picked the perfect shade, now for the fun part-time to get those rollers out! If hiring a professional is not in the budget or you simply enjoy painting, (some people actually call it therapy!) this part is for you!
Here are a few tips to help any DIY-er make the process go smoothly and with a lovely finished result.
Take the time to tape all corners, baseboards, and molding. It will save you so much time in the long run.
Pro Tip: When I lay down the painting tarps, I use the painters tape to secure the blankets to the baseboards to further protect your flooring and trim.
Do the detail work first. Brush paint along edges and trim before busting out the rollers. It often takes the most time and once you get it out of the way, the rest of the job will go by faster.
Play some music, drink some wine, enjoy a latte, and have fun!
Still Feeling Overwhelmed?
If you are still looking for more design help with your paint selections, or would like a personalized paint palette for your home, please send me a message to set up a consult!
