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Decorative Painting Techniques

Decorative Painting Techniques

Does your bedroom or living room need a face-lift? Ready to tackle a paint job redo? If so, here are some indoor decorative painting techniques to help freshen up your space. 

Color Washing

This technique adds texture and depth to a space. It’s also easy to apply. Combine a lighter and darker version of the same color, or complementary colors. After you put down a semi-gloss base coat, use a brush or sponge to sweep your two colors on. Let bare patches and brush strokes show for visual effect. 

Sponge Painting

Grab a sponge paint roller or an actual sponge to apply a paint color you love. Dip the sponge into the paint and dab it all over the wall. Apply a thin layer for a subtle effect or a thicker one that will stand out.  

The Ombre Look

The ombre effect involves one paint color fading into another, usually from dark to light. Three colors are used to create the gradual fading effect. This method is a popular way to create an accent wall.  

Wall Stenciling

Stenciling is a great alternative to wallpaper for an accent wall. There are a variety of patterns available. Once you find a stencil you like, choose a paint color that complements your existing wall color. Tape your stencil in place, paint over it, and carefully remove. 

Stripes

All you have to do is paint vertical or horizontal stripes on the wall. The thickness and color of the stripes can vary to create a variety of effects. To make a bold statement, paint thick stripes that strongly contrast with the base paint color. Opt for thinner stripes in a neutral hue for a more subtle look. 

Checkerboard 

A checkerboard pattern works well with both bold and subtle colors. Start with a neutral base color on the wall. Create horizontal and then vertical stripes, and paint every other one with your primary color. Then, paint the squares where the lines meet in a darker hue. 

Looking for other fun ways to paint your walls? Here are some more ideas to try.  

Strie

Also known as streaking, this painting technique creates horizontal and vertical lines that resemble the look of linen. It’s an ideal way to add warmth and texture to a space.  

Harlequin

This diamond-shaped wall pattern will instantly add pop to a room design. It works just about anywhere, including the kitchen, the master bedroom, or a nursery. Choose colors with subtle contrasts or bold hues for higher contrasts. 

Rag Rolling

Create a dynamic texture on interior walls with rag rolling. Dip a rag in a topcoat of paint. Bunch it up into a ball and roll on a wall to create a unique design.

How Paint Refreshes a Space

A fresh coat of paint can quickly brighten up an interior space. Don’t deal any longer with a dull color in your dining room or an outdated hue in the kitchen. A new paint job can make a space look bigger and open up a room.  It can also change the theme of a room. Yes, it’s time to get rid of that old wallpaper popular in the 1970’s. Paint a feature wall in a new color to add character to a main space.

Leave the Painting to the Pros

Ready to freshen up your home interior or your business space? Turn to the professionals at D & L Enterprises for help. We specialize in custom interior and exterior painting for residential and commercial spaces. Our services range from painting to wallpaper removal to power washing and carpentry. D & L Enterprises is based in Eldersburg and has been serving central Maryland since 1988.