How To Paint On Walls

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Whether you are an artist, decorator or simply looking for an inexpensive way to enhance an area of a room, painting a wall can be fun, creative and satisfying. This is also an inexpensive method of making a big impact with minimal cost. There are a number of styles and methods to choose from and one need not be an artist to create a striking accent wall. Whatever the skill level, an aspiring artist can make a big splash on that quiet, unassuming space that cries out for colorful attention.

Prepare The Wall

Whatever method the artist uses, the wall must be prepared. It should be clean and if necessary, freshly painted. Take into consideration the surface texture of the wall. A very rough surface will necessitate a thinner consistency of paint, and images will need to be less detailed.

Conversely, if the surface is very high gloss, paint will not adhere well. In this case, the wall should be lightly sanded to accept the paint, or repainted.

Choosing The Paint

Water based interior paint can be used with artist’s acrylic paint. Interior house paint is inexpensive for large areas and is ready-to-paint with only brief mixing. Water based house paint and artist’s acrylic paint are similar, and acrylic paint can be mixed with the interior paint to create custom colors.

If many grimy fingers will lovingly fondle the mural, it may be wise to paint the finished wall with clear acrylic varnish for protection. This is far less intrusive than velvet ropes to separate the public from the artist’s latest masterpiece, and allows for occasional cleaning.

Silhouettes Or Stylized Shapes

Chalk is a great drawing medium for walls. Not only is it readily accessible, it is inexpensive, erases easily and comes in many colors. Use chal...

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...his design on the wall.

At this point, the artist will begin painting much as he would on a canvas. It is important to prepare adequate amounts of paint for large areas if consistency in color is required. Paint can be prepared in containers with plastic lids to ensure that they will remain usable for the duration of the project.

When the painting is complete and thoroughly dry, it should be painted with a matte finish varnish for protection. Use matte rather than gloss finish, as the glare from lighting could cause viewing problems.

Painting a wall is something that anyone of any skill level can accomplish with a little patience and paint. Whether a few whimsical flower shapes or an intricate three-dimensional forest, you can put your creative juices to work and have a room that is truly one of a kind. Make a personal statement that is not soon forgotten.

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