Interior Decorating


Feature Writer: Kristin Abraham
Kristin Kizer Abraham, Kristin Abraham

Find information on how to properly hang a picture, decorative painting and faux finishing techniques, furniture arrangement, focal points, displaying collections, and everything to do with interior decorating.

Whether you're looking for new window treatments or creative storage units, to build an entertainment centre or a headboard, to refinish cabinets or build a breadkfast bar, you've come to the right place. Don't know whether to frame the fireplace or install a windowseat? Can't decide if wallpaper is passe or retro? Great ideas for home decorating, interior decorating, wallpaper removal, window treatments and much more! From shabby chic to high-end decorating.

Start a discussion after any article or join ones in progress and feel free to email me.

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Dining Room with Column, Kristin Abraham
feature articles
Kristin Abraham

How to Distress Furniture

In: Interior Decorating (general)

Turn an old piece of furniture into a brand-new treasure by giving is a distressed or aged look. more...

Create a Calming Environment

In: Interior Decorating (general)

If your life is a bit hectic and crazy, turn your home into an oasis of calm and a respite from the world. more...

Decorating Kitchens for Families

In: Kitchen Decor

There is just something about a kitchen that draws people together, use that to your advantage and create some quality family time. more...

Nurture a Small-Home Mentality

In: Interior Decorating (general)

In a housing world that seems like everyone has super-sized, there is a new trend to downsize and create a smaller footprint. more...

Decorating your Home Gym

In: Interior Decorating (general)

Make your home gym a place you enjoy spending time in, a place that makes you feel energized and good about yourself. more...

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feature blog
Kristin Abraham

May 6, 2008

What to Paint

What items should you paint under and what should you tape around to get the best paint finish?


I often get asked about the little details that go along with painting and many of the questions fall into the "what would you do" category, which usually means, would you paint that. Quite often my answer is yes. I believe that a really good paint job means you paint everything, but this isn't always the case, so I've decided to compile a handy little cheat list for you.

Switch plates. No I wouldn't paint them, paint doesn't stick to that plastic well. BUT I might go buy new ones that match the room a little better. A side note - don't tape around switch plates, remove them and paint under them.

Air Vents/Ducts. Yes, I would definitely paint them. They're ugly and if you don't paint them they stand out as a feature of the room. Make them invisible with a coat or two of paint.

Behind Mirrors. Yes, whenever possible, I remove mirrors and paint behind them. You never know if they'll be replaced and you get a cleaner finish.

Closets. No. I generally don't paint closets and if I'm asked to do them (like a large walk in closet) I like to paint them a lighter color or a neutral color. Dramatic colors (and sometimes even subtle ones) can alter the appearance of clothes.

Ceilings. This totally depends on the situation and the look you're trying to achieve. But if you have a tray ceiling or one with enhancement lights then definitely play up this feature and paint the ceiling.

These are just a few situations and my suggestions. Feel free to ask if you have questions about anything else you might want to paint or tape around so you can get the most professional painting finish possible.

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polls
Television Decorating

How do you feel about the set designs on TV shows?

Spot on! In fact I often try to replicate them.
Awful! They're not realistic at all.
Varies. Some are good, some are bad.
I don't pay attention to them much.
They use set designers on TV shows?

Results of Television Decorating poll

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