Interior Paint Color And Pattern Are Powerful Decorating Tools

Color and sheen are, of course, two of the main factors to consider when redecorating with paint. But many people are putting more personality into their interior painting by incorporating "faux finishes" and pattern into their decorating schemes.

Paint color, sheen, pattern and texture can be combined to create a near-endless number of looks for the home. But successfully creating visually complex walls and woodwork requires some understanding of basic design principles. To help you out, here are some tips from experts at the Paint Quality Institute:

• Monochromatic color schemes are generally easy to create, easy to live with and sophisticated-looking. These can consist of just one color, or different tints or shades of the same color. Striking monochromatic effects can often be best achieved by using colors that are adjacent on the paint manufacturer's color cards.
• Contrast can be a powerful element in a color scheme. Where two contrasting colors are used together, one always appears warm, the other cool, creating a visually exciting environment, Remember that contrasting colors do not have to be dark and bold; they can also be soft and subtle. Take your cue from the room you are painting: Bold contrast is better suited to a living room, soft contrast to a bedroom.
• Generally speaking, it is best to avoid using contrasting colors on equal expanses in a room. Most rooms look more appealing when the brighter color is used on a smaller area. So, if you are painting a dining room, for example, use bright color on the chair rails, a more neutral color on the walls.
• When planning your scheme, remember that the more of a color you use, the more intense it will seem. As a result, when painting wall surfaces and other large areas, it is best to select a slightly lighter color value than you think you would like.
• Color can affect the perceived size of a room: Light, cool colors make the space seem larger; dark, warm colors make it seem smaller and more intimate.
• Pattern can also affect the way a space is perceived. For example, you can heighten the appearance of a low ceiling by painting vertical stripes on the walls.
• Paints with higher sheen (a semigloss, rather than a flat or "satin" finish, for example) will reflect more light and, thus, appear to be brighter. Take this into account when choosing colors.
• Texture is an important element of design that can add interest, mood and style to interior painting. Give texture to your walls and woodwork by using a decorative painting technique like "sponging," "stippling," or "rag-rolling." The variegated color they produce gives pleasing depth to virtually any surface.

For more advice on interior painting, speak to a knowledgeable salesperson where you buy your paint. You can also learn about surface preparation, paint selection and other matters by visiting the Paint Quality Institute's Web site at www.paintquality.com.

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