Techniques
How to Get Perfect Paint Lines Every Time: 5 Pro Tips for Clean Edges
Here are five science-backed tips to make your painting projects look like they were done by a pro.
How to Paint Stripes on a Wall
Want to make a bold, unique statement? Stripes that go up-and-down make a room with low-ceilings look taller, where horizontal stripes give a smaller room a more spacious feel. And remember, the thinner the strips, the busier the pattern, too.
Here are a few tips to paint level, even stripes on your walls.
- Step 1: Paint your base color across the entire wall using the lighter and flatter shade of the two colors you picked. Let it dry for at least 24 hours.
- Step 2: Figure out your stripe spacing. Choose a stripe width that can be evenly divided into the wall’s width or height. Generally, 4-12 in. is a good width. For vertical stripes, measure the width of the wall and for horizontal stripes, measure the height of the wall.
Quick Tip
Paint an odd number of stripes on your wall. This makes sure you’ll get a solid strip at the edges of the wall or ceiling.
- Step 3: Create your outline. If using a level and pencil, mark your stripe widths across the wall. With your level, draw a light line continuously across, making sure the level is straight.
- Step 4: Mark an “X” where you want your solid stripes to be.
Quick Tip
Create a guide the exact width of your stripes and use it to make your marks.
- Step 5: Apply the right FrogTape® product for your surface.
Quick Tip
Place your tape on the outside of your pencil line so the paint will cover up any markings.
- Step 6: Burnish or seal the edges of the tape. Run a plastic toll along the tape’s edge so paint can’t bleed through.
- Step 7: Pull the tape off when the paint is still wet at a slow, 45-degree angle backward toward the wall. Don’t forget to control the end of the free tape so it doesn’t drag along the freshly painted stripes.
Painting stripes takes time and patience. Just follow these steps to prepare the space and you’ll be sure to make your stripes look crisp and straight.
More ideas like this
-
-
Techniques
What Tape Is Safe to Use on Wallpaper?
When working on home improvement projects that involve wallpaper, protecting the surface is essential. Wallpaper can be delicate, and using the wrong kind of tape may lead to peeling, tearing or permanent damage. Here's how to choose the right tape and avoid costly mistakes.
-
Techniques
When Should You Use FrogTape® Delicate Surface Painter’s Tape?
Painting projects can be transformative, but only if you protect your surfaces properly. One of the most important decisions you’ll make before picking up a brush is choosing the right painter’s tape. If you're working with delicate surfaces, FrogTape® Delicate Surface Painter’s Tape might be your best ally.