PAINTING Making Painting Projects Easier (NAPSA)—Afresh coat of paint can change the entire look of a room. In fact, painting is one of the most commonly embarked upon do-it-yourself projects. However, painting can also be a time consuming and messy process. To help make painting easier, try brushing up on a few tips from home improvementexperts: Before Starting Set up a small table as a “tool station” in the center of the room or just outside the door stocked with everything you’ll need to paint. Use large canvas drop cloths to cover floors and large furniture that can’t be moved. Prep the walls and doors by removing knobs, hinges, door handles, switch plates and outlet covers before painting. Also, fix plaster cracks and doorknob holes punched in drywall. For a professional appearance, use painter’s blue tape to keep edgesclean. Let’s Paint Use a paint tray, such as the Close-N-Go Covered Paint Tray from Roman Decorating Products, to save time and eliminate messes. While you’re painting, the CloseN-Go can be used to hold the paint can (no drips) and other accessories. When the day is done—and the project isn’t—the paint and roller can be sealed inside and used again days or even weeks later. This saves time (no clean up) and money(no wasted paint). To use a roller correctly, remember the “M”technique. Roll out a large letter “M”on the wall. Then run theroller horizontally to Painting Tip: Using the right paint tray can save time and help make your project less messy. spread the paint. Finish with light roller strokes in a perpendicular direction. Clean Up Time A package of rags can be a painter’s best friend. Use them to wipe up spills, dab off excess paint, fix mistakes, or clean your hands. To easily clean latex paint off paint brushes androllers, add two capfuls of laundry fabric softener to a bucket of water. When you're finished painting, simply place the items in the solution, agitate, rinse and thenair dry. For more home improvement tips and information on the CloseN-Go Covered Paint Tray, visit www.RomanDecoratingProducts. com or call 1-800-488-6117.
