Indoor Living

Living Room Paint

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A new wall paint color may be all it takes to give your living room a modern update. We used pre-mixed Studio Color Wall Paint to give this space a new look.

  1. First, inspect your walls for any cracks or holes. Minor wall damage can be repaired with DAP spackling products before you begin painting. After applying spackle, sand the walls to a smooth surface according to package directions.
  2. Clean your wall with mild, non-oily soap and water before painting to create a fresh surface. Be sure to let your wall dry completely.
  3. If painting a lighter color over an existing dark color, we suggest priming first with Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer. It’s also a good idea to use a paint primer if you’re painting over new drywall, bare wood, metal and surfaces that may have issues with paint adhesion.
  4. Apply painter’s tape to protect base boards and other areas including trim, molding and light fixtures. Make sure to create a tight seal when applying painter’s tape to ensure no paint seeps underneath the tape. We suggest covering your floors with a drop cloth or plastic sheeting to protect your floors before beginning to paint the room.
  5. Be sure to properly mix your paint with a stir stick prior to pouring it into a paint tray. If your project requires more than one can of paint, mix them together in a larger bucket. Be sure to only combine cans of paint if the color and sheen are the same.
  6. Using a high-quality, angled brush, cut in around the trim and the top and bottom areas of your wall first. Without reloading your brush, make a second pass at your first stroke. Finish by feathering out the edge and drag the tips of the bristles lightly over the outside line to help spread the paint. This technique will provide a smooth appearance after roller application. Be sure to keep a wet edge and not let the paint dry before rolling paint onto the wall.
  7. Using a high-quality roller with a 3/8-inch to 1/2-inch nap, apply Studio Color Wall Paint in a “W” motion from top to bottom, working in small sections until it is completely filled in. Overlap your strokes for best coverage and be sure the roller is consistently reloaded with paint to keep a wet edge. Painting in a “W” motion will ensure equal distribution of paint and even coverage on your wall. Using an extension pole with your roller helps to reach the highest sections of your wall nearest the ceiling.
  8. Gently remove painter’s tape when paint is dry to the touch, but still slightly tacky. Work slowly to ensure paint doesn’t pull up with the tape.
  9. Clean up spills, splatters and paint tools with mild, non-oily soap and warm water.
  10. Wait 24 hours before hanging pictures and other décor on your newly painted walls.

Other Materials:

  • Painter's Tape
  • Drop Cloth
  • Paint Tray
  • Stir Stick
  • Brush
  • Roller

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