Decorative finishes made easy to use

Decorative finishes are easy if you use the products
the pros use!

Friday, September 2, 2005

Decorative finishes � like sponging and rag rolling � are among the hottest trends in painting today and can add a touch of elegance to any room. And you don�t have to be an experienced painter to achieve beautiful results if you use the same products as professionals. Here�s some advice from the decorative painting experts that will make your next project easy and fun!

Sponging: Sponging involves creating texture and dimension by putting color on the wall using a sea sponge. And it�s easy to do!

� Start by applying a base coat in the color of your choice.

� Next, select a complementary color to apply by sponge. Mix one quart of latex paint with 4 quarts of extender. Many professionals use products like extender for Latex Paint, which have a long �open time� so they have more time to achieve the results they desire.

� Lightly dip your sponge in the paint and extender mixture and apply to the wall, tapping paint onto the surface. The sponge�s natural hills and valleys will create a unique look with lots of texture and dimension. For added drama, try sponging on more than one color to the surface.

Rag rolling: Unlike sponging, rag rolling involves removing color from the wall with a rag to create a multidimensional effect.

� Start by applying a base coat in the color of your choice.

� Mix one quart of latex paint in a contrasting color with 4 quarts of an extender. Apply to the wall one section at a time with a roller.

� Using wrinkled lint-free sheeting rags, or strips of old bed sheets, manipulate the paint and extender mixture�removing as little or as much paint as you want to create texture and dimension. Extender for Latex Paint allows the paint to stay wet and workable so you can have more time to create the effect you desire. Plus, you won�t have to rush through the job because your paint is drying too quickly! Tip from the experts: To avoid lap marks, keep the edge of each section wet and manipulate it when you roll on the next section of paint and extender mixture.

By using the same products as professionals, it is easy to create beautiful decorative finishes in your home.

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