If you’re tired of staring at the same four walls, you should definitely consider experimenting with various colours and paint techniques. An interesting wall treatment is a fun, creative way for you and your mister to put a unique spin on your newlywed pad. Indeed, in her book, Paint Style: The New Approach to Decorative Paint Finishes, (Firefly Books, $27), author Lesley Riva remarks that decorative painting allows one to “personalize a space” and “infuse the mundane with style and character.” Surprisingly, there are several decorative finishes that are quite easy to master, even if you’re an absolute beginner. Also, the three following paint techniques recommended by Riva, and the paint experts at Benjamin Moore, are best completed in pairs―all in all, a perfect weekend project for two!
Colour Washing
One of the most straightforward techniques of the bunch, colour washing consists of brushing paint diluted with water and glaze over a base colour using a free-form brushstroke (translation: it’s an inexact art!). Before you begin, you might want to add a glaze extender to your glaze. This colourless liquid will prolong the drying time; hence, allowing you more time to dabble. If you’re nervous about starting on the walls, experiment first on a poster board or piece of drywall. The end result, a soft watercolour effect, is pleasing to the eye, not to mention great for disguising any flaws in your plaster.
Textured Paint
Another technique that is terrific for camouflaging imperfect walls is textured paint. Furthermore, this treatment will add character to your room and create a sense of history and drama. You will require sand-textured paint, a roller with a ½-inch nap and a chip brush for this technique. First apply the textured paint with random brush strokes. Next, use the roller to apply a base coat. Lastly, use the chip brush to apply the glaze, using a random, criss-cross motion.
Stamping
Pre-made stamps are readily available, but if you’re feeling ambitious, why not create your own stamp by cutting a shape out of foam rubber? Just remember that simple shapes are best, and be sure to glue the stamp to a block of wood for added stability. A test run on paper is also recommended before tackling the wall. This way you can experiment with how much paint to apply: not enough paint will result in a motif that’s far too faint, while too much will result in a big, sloppy mess!
And for the truly artistically challenged, Benjamin Moore has created the brand-new Wall Tattoo. Similar to a stencil, the Wall Tattoo, a large graphic motif, can be applied to a wall, floor or ceiling and can be used repeatedly throughout the house.
For more information, visit benjaminmoore.ca.
