My Old Workshop | Category Archives: Painting/Decorating | Page 3Painting/Decorating Archives - Page 3 of 5

Home improvement and renovation tips

Avoid these painting mistakes (Part 3)

Here's the last in our instalments of mistakes to avoid when painting the outside of your house. For a job that lasts, don't try this at home.Waiting too long between the primer coat and the finish coatAfter applying an oil-based primer, you should apply your next coat within two weeks. Otherwise, a layer forms on ...

Avoid these painting mistakes (Part 2)

Last time we began a look at some of the more common exterior painting mistakes. Here are some more things to avoid if you want an attractive, long-lasting job.Painting in direct sunlightSunlight causes the surface of the paint to dry quickly, trapping the liquid paint thinners under the skin. When they turn to vapor and ...

Avoid these painting mistakes (Part 1)

You put a lot of work into painting the outside of your house, so it's a real pain when problems show up a couple weeks, months or years down the road. The best way to avoid these problems is to do it right from the start. Here's how to avoid some of the most common ...

How to paint 60s era panelling

Got some old panelling from the "dark" ages. What can you do?One option is to simply drywall over it. You can apply drywall directly on top of the panelling if you mark stud locations on the floor and ceiling, based on where you see nails in the panelling.Or you can pull it right off and ...

Choosing paint – how glossy should you go?

If you're trying to decide what sheen or gloss level of paint to use, here's some help.Flat or matte paint is good for general use on walls or ceilings. Because it doesn't reflect light easily, it hides imperfections on the surface. If there's a bulge or indent in the wall, this may be your best ...

What makes a good paintbrush?

After all the decisions about type of paint and wall color and trim color, you still have a decision or two. What type of paintbrush and roller do you need? Here's some help.Chances are you're using latex. Your ideal paintbrush has:100% nylon or a combination of nylon and polyester bristles. Natural bristle brushes (hog bristle) ...

Trunk o' Tips – abs cutting tips, painting tip

Thought we'd reach into the tip bag today to help you through some tough situations.Cutting ABS pipe is easy when you have a lot of space; you just use a hacksaw (or a backsaw, which can give you a straighter cut). But what if you have to retrofit something in a tight spot? Make sure ...

The rules of wallpapering

One rule you MUST follow.1) If you value your marriage, don't wallpaper with your spouse.But seriously, folks. Here are some other important rules.2) Read and obey all instructions that come with the paper. Papers vary in their soaking, setting and application times and techniques.3) Check the rolls before you open them for pattern and color ...

Pro painter tips to take the work out of painting

Painting can be a pain. But while you should never avoid proper preparation and application, you can save time.It starts with the paint you choose. If ease of cleanup, smell and speed are important, you'll want to choose water-based latex. Latex paint cleans up with soap and water, and it smells almost nice (although you ...

How to create color schemes

Maybe you don't need to be an artist to paint your house, but your finished work is on permanent display. You -- and dozens of others -- will see it every day.To get rave reviews for your masterpiece, here's an idea of how colors work together to create the look you want. The color wheel ...