There are many ways to update your décor that don't cost a lot of money. Paint is the most visually powerful and economical way to add colour, pattern and pizzazz to your home. Small projects can add up to big change if you get creative with paint.
Dulux Australia offers these photographs of artistic touches for your décor. I particularly love the painted wooden hangers. What a great way to brighten up a dull closet! As well, the graphic design treatment on the bedroom wall in the other photo is a fantastic experiment in creativity.
These ideas don't always come from within, so when you see a photograph of something you think you could tackle, make it your own with your choice of colours and design.
You can purchase paint sample pots that are great for small projects or you can use leftover paint for your project, which are both affordable options. For accessories and window coverings consider metallic spray paint, textured paint and fabric paint, which could be perfect for your creative endeavor.
I did a little research and found some other creative ideas for you to consider.
In the kitchen
Paint the tips of your wooden spoon handles (about an inch in length from the tip) in cheerful, coordinating kitchen colours.
Using ceramic paint, update the outside of ceramic items, like cups or lamp bases with a unique insignia or design.
If you have wooden chairs in the kitchen, by all means update them with a semi- or high-gloss paint in a bright, fresh colour. Or, if you are more daring you can use two or three colours to give the chair a unique finish and design.
Purchase a decorative clay pot to use as a utensil holder. Paint the outside of the pot in cheery stripes, checks or whatever colour and design suits your taste. I found a great pot with a floral relief pattern of flowers and vines at a dollar store and painted it in white to coordinate with my kitchen décor. It works great as a utensil holder and looks nice as well.
Add a pop of colour to your kitchen by painting decorative wall shelves in a vivid colour like turquoise, cobalt blue or bright yellow.
Open shelving on cabinets can be updated by painting the back of the interior in a vivid colour. Even with frosted glass inserts the colour will add some pop to the cabinet display.
Give your dated microwave cart a new look by painting it in a fresh, new colour. I updated my kitchen with fresh paint and plan to reinvent the dated microwave cart with paint that matches the cabinet colour.
In the bedroom
Well, you can see by our feature bedroom that a little paint can provide tons of drama. Consider creating a focal wall behind the bed by painting a geometric pattern over the bed. A crazy quilt, a faux tapestry or even just a big splash of colour can make a huge impact. Also, paint your headboard to give it new life.
Update the inside of your walk-in closet in a fresh colour that will reflect light. Paint wooden hangers in fun accent colours as seen in our other feature photo.
Use fabric paint that comes in a squeeze bottle and has a fine tip to give flat curtain panels a bit of verve. Add a random patterned motif, like a small swirl, in an accent colour or edge the panel with a repeat pattern like the Greek Key motif. I've used fabric paint to personalize the hemmed edge of plain pillowcases with meaningful verses and really like the way they turned out. These make great gifts. You can also spruce up toss cushion covers, chair covers and duvet covers with fabric paint.
In the family room
Give photo frames a new look with a fresh coat of paint. Consider painting mismatched frames all in one colour and create a focal wall collage. Even colourful empty frames can be used for a casual display in a rumpus room or den.
Use a bit of paint to add colour to the wall over a fireplace. Hang a great piece of art over the accent colour for added drama.
Add a stencil motif to the drawer fronts of a plain dresser and/or nightstands. Update lamp bases with appropriate paint for the surface of each lamp. Add a decorative touch to lampshades with beaded fringe, fabric paint or decorative braided trim.
All of these small projects are easy to complete in a short time frame, which makes them perfect for an afternoon craft session. Have a look around your house and imagine what could be.
Connieoliver@shaw.ca
