Painting with Patterns: How to Pull it Off

There are some among us who are brave when it comes to using bright colors and bold patterns. While many homeowners become nervous at the thought of a striped wall or a gradient look in their rooms, a few choose to take the painted bull by the horns and let the patterns show proudly. However, it can be difficult to venture into this uncharted territory without making your home look too garish or distracting.

New Ceilings’ experts on painting in Orlando are here to tell you not to fear the bold. With a little careful planning and an expert touch, you’ll manage to rock a plaid wall in a way you never thought possible. Here are a few of the insider tips the pros use when painting patterns:

• Sometimes, less is more. The thought of enclosing an entire room in stripes or checks could be enough to drive even the most levelheaded among us insane. Especially if you’re new to experimenting with patterns, make sure you don’t overdo it. Select one wall to try a pattern on as an accent wall; you could even divide your wall in half with some crown moulding and pattern one side of the divide. Keep it simple for best results.

• Pick one: bright colors or bold patterns. Although you may be able to wear a neon green and pink striped shirt like you were born in it, the same brightly colored pattern might not translate as well on your walls. Many patterns work best with more subtle colors. Try selecting a range of shades in the same family, or base your scheme around one bright color with a few neutrals blended in. The end result will be much easier on the eyes.

• Painters’ tape is your best friend. Nothing looks tackier than trying to paint stripes on the wall and having them come out with jagged edges and runny lines. That’s why painters’ tape exists: to give you those professional-grade clean lines you crave. Don’t be afraid of overtaping. You want to make sure your area is fully prepared for your project. And as a side note, be sure to let your first layer completely dry before you go on to add in the second and third colors!

Many modern interior designers are incorporating patterned walls into their clients’ decorating schemes to achieve a completely unique look. Some choose to add that pattern through wallpaper, but the pros know they can do it with paint. To learn more or to get a free consultation for your interior painting in Orlando, call the experts at New Ceilings at (407) 378-6040 today.