Custom painting Finishes

Custom painting has become a viable and more practical solution to wallpaper. Decorating costs can be cut and projects can be completed faster. Also the seamless appearance of a painted finish adds just that little extra elegance to any room.

There is literally no limit to painted finishes- while wallpaper only comes in a select number patterns and color combinations. With paint and a little imagination any effect is possible. Even two different sheens of the same color can produce amazing results.

While complicated effects like Marbleizing and False Graining are best left to an expert, a homeowner can do some remarkable custom paint finishes. All it takes is a little research and patience. Why settle for the same wallpaper pattern thousands of others have in their homes when you can have a one of a kind paint finish.

Some custom finishes require task specific tools-which are usually a little pricy. But there are a number of eye pleasing designs that do not need any more than your standard painting tools and every day household items. These things may include: brown paper bags, plastic sheeting, sponges and even potatoes.

Name brand paint companies and your giant home improvement centers all have sections on their web sites dedicated to painting and custom finishes. Most of them host seminars and classes for homeowners to learn the basics of paint finishes. These days though one web search is all you need to get started.

Start with a solid foundation. This means, your finish will only be as good as or last as long as the surface underneath. Joint compound, sand paper and primer are your best friends.

Allot of the work is in the preparation. Sand and smooth all the surfaces that will be painted. Fill any nail holes or imperfections. Sand Again! Clean up any dust from the sanding and don’t forget to use a tack cloth to get any residual dust off the walls.

Next use a quality primer. Prime the walls once and allow to dry. Once dry give the walls a quick inspection for any nail holes or other imperfections you may have missed. Do any caulking that is necessary. If more joint compound or wood filler was used prime these spots again.

Now you are ready to tape off any trim or moldings. Tape can also be used to create patterns or stripes at this point. Tape can be used to either cover an area not to be painted or to create an area to be painted.

Start with a small wall or area first. If you make a mistake or just dislike the color or style choice it is easy to make adjustments in a small area rather than an entire room. Take your time and follow all the steps of your particular design.

In no time you will have a room or project looking like new, or old depending on the look you are going for. Take a chance and experiment. Paint is one of the easiest medias to change. All you have to do is paint it again.