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Paint is an inexpensive way to completely change the feel and look of a space. But before you run to the paint store, here are a few tips to make your work perfect from start to finish. Considered one of the least expensive of remodeling projects, painting a space can also:

• Give a fresh and new feel to a space
• Bring value to your home
• Hide marks and scrapes on walls
• Be less expensive than remodeling
• Promote positive energy
• Require less prep time than wallpaper

Here is an example of how paint, plus a few other changes, can transform a small space (in this case a bathroom) into a much brighter and large looking space. 

ApartmentTherapy

Selecting the color for your space depends on the mood you want to create. If you absolutely love beige, embrace it. This is YOUR space after all, and you need to be happy in that space. Colors can set a tone, so if your desire is to be in a warm and calm space, you might want to select white and neutral tones for the walls and decor. If you love the energy vibrant colors bring, by all means, add those colors to your work area. But, keep in mind that the color you see on that small paint chip will look much different on a large expanse of wall.

Before painting an entire room, try these suggestions from HomeLogic:

1. Paint squares of primed drywall with samples of the colors you’re considering, and then move them around the room during the day. Apply at least two coats.

2. Most contractors won’t hang lights before you paint, but you can get a color approximation by placing a bulb you’ll be using in a floor or desk lamp. If you’re hyper-sensitive to color or want a very specific look, ask your electrician to hang the lights, then cover them carefully during painting.

3. Turn on artificial lights even during daylight to see what your colors will look like. Remember that natural and artificial light will work together during certain times of day, especially in summer when dusk lasts a long time.

4. Paint sheen also affects color. Glossy finishes will reflect light and change the way the color looks, whereas flat finishes are less reflective and allow colors to look truer under bright light.

5. Light-colored walls can reflect the colors of bold carpets: A bright blue rug, for instance, can cast a bluish tone on a white wall.

Don't believe that the light of day and which color paint you select makes a difference? Check out the color adventure Dana went through when painting her studio/office space. Not one, but two color choices didn't work until #3 was the perfect fit.

Color 1-Celery green                                                                      Color 2-Yellow


Color 3- White with gray stripes. MadeEveryDay

Are paneled walls keeping you from enjoying your space? Check out what a difference a splash of white Sherwin Williams ProClassic paint can make. In this case, an off-campus college house shared by three young women is completely transformed. Learn more about the process of painting paneling here.  

Honeycombhome

Go for calm with Behr's "Gentle Rain" gray walls. ScrambledEggs

Here's another creative solution for a boring white/gray office/sewing space. TheHappyChateau

Duron's Sugar Cookie took a boy's bedroom from drab to fab new quilt studio. BetweenNapsOnThePorch

How about yellow and white gingham walls? SewWeQuilt

Or are you a seafoam kinda gal? ALittleSweetness

Green is sometimes not the best color if your room is on the north side of the house. After a room move, Melly painted her space white to have the light in studio bounce. MellySews

Love the color pumpkin? It might vibrate too much for an entire room that is only 10' x 10'.

A move upstairs into a family room, and different selection from the vegetable family, became a sanctuary for this crafter. InfarrantlyCreative

Instead of an entire room, paint just one wall red for a big vibrant punch. ASortOfFairyTale

Need some color in your life?  How about fuchsia? Pinterest

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