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Personalize with Paint

Every home has an area or an item that can become a work of art. Using a can of paint, you can turn an ordinary wall into an extraordinary visual attraction. Whether or not you have a mind full of creativity, faux painting is one of many ways to achieve a unique look. Faux painting requires basic tools such as brushes, rags and sponges to create a textured look on surfaces. Here are a few simple faux painting projects that will add a personal touch to your living environment.

Stripe it up! All you need is a straight edge, a can of your favorite color paint (many faux painting projects also require a can of glaze color to be mixed with the paint color), a paintbrush and painter's tape to liven up your walls. A good tape to try is Duck® brand's Perfect Release™ because it will remove easily from the wall without ruining the surface. Start by applying the tape in straight, vertical lines using the straight edge. Space the lines as far apart or as close as desired. Using the brush, cover the wall and the tape with the paint. After the paint is applied but before it is cured, pull the edges of the tape at a 90-degree angle and slowly remove it from the wall. The result: clean, sleek lines. Stripe only the area under the chair rail for a different stripe variation.

Save your seat! Personalize your chairs with a rag and a can of paint. With these two items, it is easy to add color and pizzazz to any kitchen or sitting area. Crumble up the rag and dab it into the paint. Using your own rhythm and pattern, dab the paint-covered rag all over the chair. This adds texture and style. This project is perfect for the entire family. Allow each family member to personalize his or her own chair to create a keepsake.

Swing into style! Add color to your French doors. A technique to use on doors is dragging. Dragging consists of using a brush of your choice to go back and forth to create lines and texture. To drag, you will need a brush, try a scrub brush or a standard paintbrush, a can of paint and tape to mask off the glass windows on the door. Once the windows are protected, we recommend Duck® brand's Clean Release®, dip the brush into the paint and with light, wispy strokes, cover the surrounding wood. Another variation is to cover the doors with paint and, while the paint is still wet, whisk the brush back and forth for a textured look. Be sure to only apply paint to a small area that you are able to brush while the paint is still wet.

Show yourself on your shelf! Personalize your shelves by adding a touch of creativity. Sponging is ideal for this project. All you need is a clean sponge and paint. Dab the sponge into the paint and rhythmically spot the shelf until it is to your liking. Besides a sponge, you can use other household items to create a similar look such as bubble wrap, jars and rags.



Like any creative project, there is no right or wrong. Once you begin painting around the house, your ideas will flourish and you will find the appropriate style for you and your family.