What should I paint my house with? Choices in sheen

Exterior Paint-“What should I choose?”

COLOR, TEXTURE AND SHEEN

Exterior paint offers a big array of color, texture and finishes. What to choose is time consuming and it can prove to be very difficult for homeowners to make the right choice.
SATIN PAINT: Satin finish exterior paint is a bit glossy but not too shiny either. If you want to give a subtle yet classy look to your home exteriors you can try using these paints. The best part of this finish is it suits wooden surfaces well, so you need not worry about painting the doors and windows with other paint finish. It is easy to clean and maintain walls painted with satin finished paints. Very durable, washable, fade resistant, will not chaulk. But you must use premium paint, NO CHEAP STUFF!
FLAT PAINT: This is the most popular choice among exterior paints. This paint typically does not have any sheen when applied to the walls and do not reflect light too. If your walls have minute flaws flat finish can conceal them in the best possible manner. Just make a smart color choice. These paints do not have shine so it is advisable not to coat your doors and windows with such finishes. Satin finish paints are a better choice for that purpose.
SEMI-GLOSS: This is about as glossy as you will want to go on the exterior of your home.  It works well on Doors, Shutters and sometimes big columns.  And this is usually the extent of gloss that is offered by most paint companies.  Some people use it on the garage door.  If you use an accent color in semi-gloss it can add life to your house.  But use it sparingly.  It will accent or make whatever you paint with it stand out so it needs to be something that you want to stand out.
All top quality exterior paints are washable and will not fade, so you do not need to worry about adding shine to extend the life of the paint.
Gloss finish paints: As the name suggest, gloss finish exterior paints have too much of shine element to them. This is a major reason why one should avoid using them heavily to paint exterior walls. This finish is ideal for painting door and windows. You can also use them to highlight something that you want visitors to call attention to. Wherever you want the eye to reach you can make use of this finish but do not to overuse this paint finish.
Textured finish paints: More textured paints which are excellent for exterior painting are offered now. You can choose from sprayed effect or the “do it yourself’ method of roller and or  brush effect, these can make a huge difference to the appearance of your home exteriors. If you are using subtle colors then textured paints are just right for you.  But I must warn you,’this is a lot of work’.  Hand rolling and brushing the exterior of a home is not easy. While there are always areas that require some brushing, the use of an airless sprayer is beyond belief.  It makes this project so much easier and the results are wonderful. Our homes are filled with textures and sheens on the inside but you can bring it in your exteriors too and make your home appear equally beautiful and unique on the outside.
I have written several articles and shared many from other authors on this subject.  You may be getting tired of reading on this matter.  However, I feel that choosing the right product for your project is the first and most important step towards a successful paint job.
Of course hiring the professional is in my humble opinion the best first step.  But if you are determined to do this yourself then spend some time to make the right choice at the start.  It does not cost any more to do it right but will usually cost you more if you do it wrong.  You know,’redo’.
I cannot over emphasize the importance of buying quality paint and primer.  A never before the difference between quality paint and the cheapest thing you can find is huge.  You can pay $100.00 for the paint and have to do it every year. Or you can pay $1000.00 for the paint and never ever have to paint again.  It is your choice.  “Im’, Just Say’n”
As always “ Happy Painting”
Ken Rader Interiors
www.kenraderinteriors.com
follow us at http://www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors
We are now listed on Angie’s list.

MAMAS’ COMING,”PAINT THE HOUSE WOW!”

The In Colors are Bright and Bold

I have been browsing through several magazines and noticed how bold and bright the color trends are.  Have You?  I was a teenager in the late 60’s and early 70’s and the popular colors then are back today.

Of course the names of the colors are different. Back then ‘Burnt Orange’, ‘Avocado, and Coppertone’. Those were BIG.  The colors now are ‘Monet Moonrise, Wythe Blue, Ice Breaker, Carrots.  But, “they are still bold and bright”.

The influence of Tuscan and Beach motifs’ are everywhere and in pretty much every décor. Greens, Blues and Oranges are offered in paints, accessories, furniture and well ‘you name it’.

That brings us to the subject at hand. Mama is coming “Paint the House WOW!”

We were contracted to paint the inside of a house that was originally built in the 1970’s.  It has been added too and changed somewhat but has a definite Tuscan flavor.

The new owner wanted to really bring the Tuscan décor to the forefront.  The interior really had the potential to accomplish this.  The openings between rooms were arches and the trim is massive and very dark.  There are beams on the ceiling in the great room and a wonderful patio out back with tile, rock and even some grape vines.  The walls in the various rooms are all hand trowel plaster.  Each room has a little different texture.  This is evidence of the different remodels and additions that were made to the house.  Each contractor had a different style.  This just adds to the Tuscan look that the homeowner wants to show off even more.

The ceilings needed to be painted so we started with them first.  The called for massive cover-up.  We have posted several pictures of this process.  This will give the do-it-your self group some idea of what is involved.  This is a very time consuming task when the people are living in the house while this is being done. We at Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. are very conscious of the needs of people when we are in their home or shall I say “Villa”.

The floors in the Kitchen and Breakfast area are tile.  This too works well with the theme.

Next decision was the color for the walls.  Remember, the homeowner want WOW!  Her mother and sister are coming to visit and see the house for the first time and she wants to make a good impression.  The decorator has chosen “Bus Top Tour” from the ‘allen + roth’ collection.  It is orange.  Very bold and it takes your breath away.  I have to admit that I was a little worried about having so much of this color.  I could see accenting with it and having some accessories but not so thrilled with the idea of painting all of the walls.

Much thought went into picking this color and as I looked at the floors, furniture, trim and the pictures that would be used, I became more comfortable with the color.  So, “a painting we will go, a painting we will go’.  

Here are some pictures of the paint on the walls and a few of the finished project.  The heavy texture on the wall needed a lot of paint.  We used Behr primer and paint combo and were able to do the job with just 2 coats.  We were afraid it would take 3 or 4.

We definitely produced the WOW factor.  And the paint color is not over the top.  It is beautiful.  It is a success.

We were on a time limit to accomplish this project needing to get it done before the company arrives.  We painted the ceilings and walls of the Kitchen, dining room, hallway, entry, great room. Wet bar area and pantry in 3 days.  That’s right, three days, are we good or what?

My lovely wife is in some of these pictures, doing her thing, “attention to detail”.  I was doing the work too,’ I was just taking a few pictures’. 

We will be returning to this house in about 1 week to start painting 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a laundry room.  The Tuscan theme will continue but with a different color.  We will keep you posted on the progress.

I learned a couple of things on this project.

1. Keep up to date with the colors people like

2. Other decorators have good ideas also.

If you are planning a new paint job for your home be sure and check out some of the newest magazines for ideas of color and theme.

As always “Happy Painting”

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

www.kenraderinteriors.com

Follow us at http://www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

PAINT YOUR KITCHEN AND GET THE WOW! FACTOR

PAINT YOUR KITCHEN FOR AN AMAZING UPDATE!

A quick coat of paint offers an easy and affordable way to refresh any kitchen.

Most of us spend hours each week in our Kitchens, preparing delicious dinners, tasty snacks and on-the-fly breakfasts. But what do you do when a style craving strikes your fancy? One way to satisfy your design ambitions (as well as your budget!) is to use paint to update your kitchen.  Slathering a rich coat of color onto walls, ceilings and chairs is an affordable way to decorate but paint can be used to cook up all sorts of other kitchen possibilities too!

Painting kitchen cabinets
Next to walls, kitchen cabinets are the most obvious element to tackle to refresh your kitchen with paint. Begin by removing all hardware and hinges on your cabinets, or at the very least, carefully tape over them, to protect from any rogue splattering.  While painting outside on a tarp is preferable, you can complete this project inside as well; just be sure to cover your appliances, floors and furniture. Wipe down your cupboards with a mild de-glossing solution (TSP OR TSP SUBSTITUTE and warm water will do!) and gently sand them so that the paint effortlessly grips the surface. Then prime and cover with color, using latex paint and primer combination. Renting a sprayer can speed up this kitchen makeover, if you know how to use one, but there is nothing wrong with painting by hand either, as long as you have the right brushes for pesky edges and a roller for larger surface areas. A good quality paint brush will cost about $12.00 dollars.  2 ½” wide sash brush made of nylon and polyester works best.  Please do not use a bristle brush for latex paint.

Painting your kitchen backsplash
Make a splash with your kitchen backsplash! Installing a new backsplash can be pricey but if you’ve got a spare weekend, you can update your existing tile backsplash with a coat of paint. Simply tape-off all cabinets, electrical outlets and counters, and wipe down to remove any lingering grime.  Using light-grit sandpaper on the backsplash will also help the paint connect smoothly with the surface. If painting over tile, be sure to use a ceramic primer and paint for the best results. Glidden makes a primer called ”Gripper” that sticks to tile.  It works great and dries in one hour. The longer it cures the harder it gets.  You will be amazed by the difference a subtle hint of color can make to your kitchen!

A quick coat of paint offers an easy and affordable way to refresh any kitchen.

Painting wooden kitchen floors
Painting a wooden floor is not for the faint of heart, but if you’re feeling adventurous it can make a bold and beautiful statement. After moving all of your furniture (remember, lift with your knees!) and thoroughly cleaning underfoot, it’s time to prime. Use a primer that is suitable for your flooring and paint type. There are 3 products that I recommend

1. Bulls Eye 1-3

2. Glidden Gripper

3. Kilz Total Premium (Acrylic)

Each of these products claim to stick to any surface and dry fast.  Oil or Polyurethane based primers work great but take much longer to dry. A tinted primer makes life easier as well. Polyurethane-based paints work wonders on most hardwood floors and should be applied in multiple thin coats. Keep the room warm and allow 24-hours between each layer for drying so that the paint cures properly. Also, if you can, leave the house while the fumes clear.  This is probably the most difficult surface to paint.  Regular paint will not last long on a surface that you walk on.  Thus, the Polyurethane based paints are a must.

Painting kitchen cabinet hardware
Great design is in the details, making a hardware pick-me-up a fast and simple way to uplift any kitchen’s look. You can easily paint your cabinet hardware for an inexpensive update. Remove all hardware from your kitchen cabinetry and scrub clean. Be sure to take note of the type of material you are working with; for example, metal handles should be treated with metallic primer. Spray painting is the most efficient way to achieve even coverage and two to three coats should usually do the trick. Allow a day for drying so the paint really hardens. Then reattach, stand back and admire.

Krylon, Dupont and several other brands have paint in aerosol cans that work the best.  You can even get paint that has a hammered look.  These are more durable than most other paints. You may find that getting all new hardware is the better way to go.

Some people paint the hinges and then get new door and drawer pulls. 

Well, these are just a few of the areas of a Kitchen that you can paint and give your Kitchen a new and updated look.  Just keep in mind that painting cabinets, floors and hardware require skill of a higher quality than painting the walls or ceiling.  I know that is not what you want to read but ‘I’m just say’n.

One of the secrets to painting successfully is using the new paint and primer products that are available today.  If you prime with a high quality primer and then use the paint and primer combination product, you will get a great end product.

Of course hiring the professional painter to paint any of theses areas or items is a wonderful choice also.  They are familiar with the products and they have the skill needed.  They have all of the tools and know how to use them.

As always “Happy Painting”

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

www.kenraderinteriors.com

Please enjoy our posts and leave us a comment.  We really read all comments and are interested in your perspective or additional information on the subjects at hand.

Thanks

Ken Rader

BRING MOROCCO INTO YOUR HOME

Want to Bring the Moroccan Decorating Style into Your Home?

 

The Idea of living like ‘Grace Kelly’ may dance in your head when you think of Moroccan Decorating. 

You can use some of these ideas and feel like a Prince or Princess in your home.

It is often difficult to tell one style of furniture from another, they are so much alike. That is not a situation that is likely to happen when it comes to Moroccan furniture.
A motif beloved by hippies, poets and artists, Moroccan decor as well as furniture is now becoming popular among the rest of us. It creates a tranquil oasis of beauty to any home.
The main feature that you will notice about Moroccan furniture is the use of color. The word "plain" barely exists in this vocabulary. Stunning, vibrant colors, mirrors, fabrics, mosaics are all incorporated to create and exciting world of color and texture. The most prevalent colors are the bright colors of the Mediterranean on which it is bordered on the north, such as blue green and red and the fiery colors of the desert on which it is bordered on the south, such as gold and yellow. Do not expect subtlety in Moroccan furniture; everything is bold, brash and makes a definite statement.
The tropical feel of the desert and the sea are woven into this style of decorating. The idea is to bring the outdoors alive and into your home, since it is too hot to go out into it. Furniture is heavy and very sturdy, with exotic designs that reflect the natural themes surrounding the home. Leather chairs, gilded arms and legs, mosaics worked into table tops and around mirrors are all common features of the Moroccan look. The materials are of the best quality with a wide range of bright colors and varied textures.
Mixed patterns are used extensively in Moroccan design. Fabrics are not just on curtains and sofas, but draped loosely over chests and chairs. The fabric may be interesting mixture of diamonds, squares and other shapes that you would not expect to find together in any other style of decorating. But these pieces are considered more art that furniture, and so the mixture works well in this context.
The fabrics used are usually intricately patterned silk. This offers an interesting contrast to the heaviness of the furniture pieces. Tapestries hung on walls, shades on lamps, and fabric draped on tables will be of a heavily designed but fine silk. Other materials such as leather and wool may also be used and are made a part of the furnishings. If you have ever seen a lamp in this style, you will be astounded at the intricacy and detail it contains. They may be carved out of wood, hammered out of metal and be adorned with brightly patterned fabric.
If you have ever dreamed of a life as a pasha, lounging on pillows and surrounded by bright colored but soft feeling fabrics against your skin, the Moroccan style is for you. Another may find it too garish, but if it suits your taste, it can make for a beautiful home.
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
www.kenraderinteriors.com
follow us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

CHOOSE THE RIGHT EXTERIOR PAINT,YOUR PAINT JOB WILL LAST A LIFETIME

CHOOSE THE RIGHT EXTERIOR PAINT FOR A PAINT JOB THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME.

Many people, my customers included, don't put a lot of thought in the type of house paint they need in order to have lasting performance. Most people think of paint as a decorative element that provides protection to a surface.
The reality is opposite. Paint is a protective film that has decorative capabilities.
Paint manufactures are constantly trying to improve their products for the best performance, but they also know that no one will purchase these products if they don't offer a decorative appeal.
This explains the confusing volume of products on the shelves.
Choosing the best and most proper house paint to use is as important as the surface preparation and the application techniques used. An understanding of the different kinds will allow you the best opportunity at choosing house paint for maximum performance and decorative appeal.

What is House Paint?

Paint is a liquid that dries to form a protective film on the surface. Paint mainly consists of pigments, binders, additives and solvents. Each type of finish will have its own special blend of ingredients that enhance its performance for a given surface.
The pigments are fine particles that provide the color. The binder holds the pigments together and glues them to the surface being painted. Various additives can be included that enhance different properties of the house paint. These include splatter resistance, easier brushing, mildew resistance, hardness of the paint film and UV resistance.
The most common binders are latex, vinyl, acrylic and alkyd. Latex, vinyl and acrylic are formulated with water as the main ingredient. As a result these types of paints are known as "water base". Alkyd uses mineral spirits, aka paint thinner, as a solvent. Since earlier paints used natural plant oils, such as Linn Seed and Tung oil, as a binder instead of alkyd resins this type of paint became known as "oil base".
After the solvent evaporates the pigments, binders and additives are left on the surface, this is the paint film. Paints that contain more of these ingredients will form a thicker film, providing better coverage and more protection. The quality of the ingredients also has a great affect on how the paint works when applied and how long it will last. Gallon for gallon a cheap paint will have less binders and of a lower quality than a more expensive paint.
Of course the chemistry of house paint in much more complex than this explanation. This gives you a little knowledge of the two main types of paints, oil base and water base.

Varieties of House Paint

You have two types of paint to be concerned with latex paint and alkyd paint. Both types have excellent qualities but are incompatible with each other. A rule to follow is "oil over water - never water over oil". This means an oil base paint, alkyd house paint, can be applied over water base paint, latex or acrylic house paint, but never the other way around. A primer must be used before applying latex over oil base paint.
Both latex and alkyd paints have both good and bad attributes. They are both equally suited for most surfaces. No wonder it is difficult to decide which to use.

Latex Paint

Latex paints are the most common and popular types of paints on the market. Because its primary liquid is water, latex dries quickly, is almost odorless (at least to my nose), clean up is with water and is environmentally friendly.
Most water based paints contain a small amount of volatile solvents also called Volatile Organic Compounds, VOC's. These compounds can be a problem with some people. Low-VOC and no-VOC paints are now on the market that can be used in these situations.
The main limitations are sensitivity to the cold, should be applied above 50° degrees F., and has a tendency to show brush marks when compared to alkyd finishes. Lower temperature versions can be applied at 35° degrees. Keep in mind, this paint cannot be allowed to freeze both during and for a few hours after application. The paint film will be severely damaged if allowed to freeze before it's fully cured.
The quality of latex paint is affected by the type of binder used. The best water based paints use 100% acrylic resins. Some manufactures use the term acrylic latex paint.
100% Acrylic House Paint has all the best qualities and will outperform cheaper latex house paints. This type offers splatter resistance, easy to apply, can be scrubbed, high chip resistance plus great color and sheen retention.

Alkyd Paint

Many professional painters prefer to use alkyd house paint, especially on interior trim. It is durable, stain resistant and dries with less brush marks. Plus, it is a dream to spray with a HVLP paint sprayer, providing a factory like finish.
Unfortunately it has some major drawbacks; alkyd paint has a strong solvent smell and dries slowly.

• The smell comes from the very high amounts of VOCs contained within the paint. Must be applied with adequate ventilation, plus the smell will stick around for a while.
• Slow drying has its advantages; the paint flows on the surface producing a smoother appearance. Unfortunately it will have a tendency to sag if applied to thick. This means more coats will be needed and the project will take more time.

Even with these drawbacks this type of finish can produce superior results in some situations. This is an excellent paint for interior wood trim, doors and cabinets. Choose high quality alkyd house paint for the best results. I must admit that 99% of woodwork is now painted with Acrylic/latex.  There are some fantastic products on the market now and using Alkyd is not easy. Also use the best brushes you can buy if you are putting the paint on with a brush.

Specialty House Paint

Although latex and alkyd house paints represent the most common types you are likely to encounter, there are other types you need to know about. Each offers some unique capabilities.

• Elastomeric is a truly unique exterior paint with rubber like qualities. Elastomeric paint was developed for cracked masonry, such as stucco. This is a very thick paint that can bridge over small cracks and stretch with the surface. A good choice for some wood surfaces. This paint also works well over plaster and a product call ‘Drivit’ which looks like Stucco.
• Direct to Metal paints, DTM is primarily an industrial finish, but I have seen some versions available to the general public. I have used this type of paint on steel siding with incredible results. If you have some metal that needs to be painted, give DTM a try. Primarily an exterior product. Most quality exterior paints can be painted on metal and if you use a good quality primer you will not really need to use DTM.  It does very well on large projects which makes using a primer prohibitive because of cost.
• Epoxy paint, a two-component paint that is very tough and chemical resistant. Although interior only, this stuff is as tough as it gets. Most homeowners will use it on their garage floors, but epoxy can be used anywhere a super tough finish is needed.
• Urethane floor enamels are the perfect choice for painting a wood floor. Typically a very shiny paint with all the positive attributes of oil base enamel. Very hard and scratch resistant. I use urethane paint on painted porch floors with great results.
• Old Fashioned Paint - Few modern paints created with synthetic materials can truly claim to be VOC-free. Old fashioned paint formulas created with natural pigments and binders are surprisingly durable and attractive.

Choosing Exterior House Paint

Every house will need painting some day and someone will have to choose what type of paint to use. There isn't a simple answer, "use this brand and it will last forever". The type of finish you choose depends on many factors.

• Type of surface affects the type of paint to use. Example, wood trim and siding expand and contract with the seasons plus can split over time. The paint needs to expand and contract with the wood with out cracking. A good elastic paint is 100% Acrylic with a satin sheen.
• The environment also affects the paint and the surface it's applied to. Regional weather extremes need to be taken into account. Every region has specific needs as to the best possible house paint to use.
• UV exposure is another factor that affects the finish paint. Most alkyd finishes degrade faster when exposed to UV light.

Where you purchase your paint also affects the choices you make. It is my belief that paint should be purchased from a paint store not from a home improvement center. A paint store offers regional specific knowledge and products that are best suited for your particular needs.
Choosing exterior paint involves a lot of knowledge about regional weather and products best suited for a given surface. This knowledge comes from years of experience using different products.

Choosing Interior House Paint

Choosing interior paint is much easier than choosing exterior paint. Your needs and the environment are much easier to define and they remains fairly constant over time. The number of available products is lower.

Factors to Consider

• Abrasion Resistance - Some areas of your home receive more ware and tare than others. These areas could be hallways, doors and trim or a child's room. Alkyd paints can offer excellent resistance to scuffing and is a good choice for doors, trim and floors. The acrylic paints offer lower odor, ease of application and excellent flexibility.
• Humidity - Exposure to water will have a huge effect on the life of the finish. In areas such as bathrooms, saunas, and pools this is especially true. Both top quality oil base and acrylic finishes are resistant to moisture. The acrylic paints are better in most situations. Higher sheens should be used in areas that receive more humidity.
• Sheen - The sheen of the paint affects how strong and flexible the paint film is and the abrasion resistance. The more sheen the more resistance to washing and the affects of abrasion. Choose a paint sheen that matches the conditions of the surface and your decorative needs.
• Color - Intensity of color and the need for multiple coats affects your choices as well. Water base paints dry faster allowing you to apply another coat sooner plus quality acrylics are thicker and offer better coverage.

Top quality interior acrylic house paint is the best choice for ceilings and walls plus most surfaces. The alkyd finishes offer a harder film that can take more of a beating. Hence the preference most pros have for using oil base finishes on trim and doors.
Choosing interior house paint comes down to the amount of time you have to accomplish your project and the desired decorative appeal. If you need a super smooth paint finish, choose an oil base but if this project has to be finish ASAP choose the fast drying acrylics.

Why Use Quality Paint

House paint does much more than add color. Your homes ability to resist the forces of nature depends on the best quality paint used. Of course it's not just using high quality house paint. Proper surface preparation, primer and caulking all add to the final outcome.
Quality materials, professional painting tools and craftsmanship add up to a paint job that can last for years. Cheaper materials will last a shorter amount of time causing the need to repaint much sooner, plus the need for possible repairs.
This is especially true for exterior painting. Using $15 per gallon paint can mean repainting in 4 years and $25 per gallon paint could last for 10 years. Cheaper materials will force you to repaint your home much earlier as compared to using a top quality finish. What would you rather do, paint your home or something else?
Another consideration is the labor involved to prepare a home for painting and then apply the finish. The cost of labor, yours or a painting contractor, must be accounted for and will increase on a yearly basis with increases in the cost of living. Your labor also has value. Think of what it costs you in lost time from your job or missed recreational opportunities.

Example of Exterior Painting Cost

Let's assume the cost of painting a small exterior with $15 per gallon paint is $250 for materials and $1500 for labor, this equals $1750. Now also assume the paint job last for 4 years. In 8 years, with no increase in material or labor cost, the paint job cost $3500.
Using a better paint can double the time before repainting needs to be done, lets assume 8 years for arguments sake. The cost of materials goes up a little, it's now $350 but the cost of labor remains the same. This paint job now costs $1850.
The difference between these two examples is $1650 for an 8 year period. The better paint saves a considerable amount of money over time when compared to the cheaper paint. Of course this is a dramatic example. The labor costs can increase with the better paint job, especially if more intense exterior paint preparation is used.
This translates to a higher cost per year for the cheaper house paint and higher maintenance cost for you. The savings will be higher if a painting contractor is hired. Spending the money now for quality materials and craftsmanship will save you money in the future.

If you use quality paint and if you hire good professional painters that will do the prep work, your paint job should last a lifetime.  Or at least 25 years.  That is excellent return for your money.  I cannot over emphasize the need to use the best quality paint you can buy.  Many of the top brands now offer a combination Paint and Primer.  These are superior quality products.

We hope this information is helpful to you.  As a professional painter a superior paint job is the best reward for the hard work.  In this day and age most paint companies try to market to the Do-it-yourself crowd.  And while anyone can paint, not everyone is a painter.

As Always ‘Happy Painting

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

www.kenraderinteriors.com

THE CURE FOR DECORATING PARALYSIS

DECORATING PARALYSIS, WE FOUND THE CURE!

The main symptom of decorating paralysis is the inability to tackle and finish a design project in your home.

A lot of decorating paralysis comes about because people don’t know what they want. Buy decorating magazines and create a file of pictures of rooms that appeal to you.

Maybe you’ve spent years looking for the perfect couch. But somehow, every couch seems to have a gigantic flaw.
Or maybe you’ve spent decades reconsidering drapes for your den. But do you want drapes, or blinds or shoji screens?
Decorating paralysis can hit no matter how large or small your decorating project.
You’re a victim if you’re still waiting to unpack boxes and arrange furniture in a home you moved into five years ago.
You’re a victim if you find yourself explaining year after year what you plan to hang on your empty walls.  How can you overcome it?

It can be pretty scary to lay out a lot of cash on furniture. So look for options that allow you to indulge your decorating desires in a flexible way.

Get over your fear
Behind all decorating paralysis is the fear of making a mistake.
You want to buy a leather couch because it’s durable, but you’re afraid that it will feel uncomfortable - sticky and hot in the summer and cold in the winter. So you don’t buy a couch at all.
What are you afraid of? Making a choice you’ll regret. How do you get over that fear? By realizing that whatever choice you make will involve trade-offs.
True, a leather couch may not be as soft as a fabric couch, but isn’t that preferable to the destruction of the couch within a week of its arrival in your home?
And if leather isn’t comfortable but functional, can you overcome this problem with fabric throws, pillows and cushions? Maybe so.

You want to totally redecorate your living room. And yet, it seems like a mammoth project. You can help move your project along by tackling things step by step.

Finally, if you buy that leather couch and later regret it, you can always put it up for sale.
Develop an overall plan
A lot of decorating paralysis comes about because people don’t know what they want.
So buy decorating magazines and create a file of pictures of rooms that appeal to you. Over time, you’ll see a theme develop.
Maybe you like clean lines and modern interiors. Maybe you like informal, “shabby chic” rooms. Or perhaps you prefer more traditional styles.

You don’t have to hire an interior decorator to redo your whole home. Plenty of designers will work with you on a small project - like helping you find the right couch for your home.

If you notice a consistent theme, you’ve hit upon your look.
Break a big job into smaller jobs
You want to totally redecorate your living room. And yet, it seems like a mammoth project.
You can help move your project along by tackling things step by step.
First, spend one weekend focused on de-cluttering your space and getting rid of things you no longer want or use.
Next weekend, focus on repainting. Some other weekend, focus on finding and buying a bookshelf or organizational system.
If you’ve done step number two, you’ll already know the overall look you’re going for and it will be easier to tackle individual projects, one step at a time without feeling overwhelmed.
Don’t shun hired help
Sometimes, in order to get off the fence about a decorating project, we need input from a professional.
Professionals have the expertise and resources to cut through our fears and help us get to the core of what we want.
And you don’t have to hire an interior decorator to redo your whole home or room. Plenty of designers will work with you on a small project - like helping you find the right couch for your home.
Buy expensive items that are flexible
It can be pretty scary to lay out a lot of cash on a red couch. What happens if you tire of red in a year or two?
Our solution - look for options that allow you to indulge your decorating desires, but in a flexible way.
In this case, look for couches that come in slipcovers that can be changed out whenever you feel the urge.
It’s only furniture
Finally, realize that there is no decorating choice that is irreversible. If you choose the wrong paint color, repaint.
If you choose the wrong chair or couch, send it back or sell it.
There is no such thing as perfection and decorating is a continually evolving process that’s never truly finished. 
After all, it can’t be. You change. Styles change. That’s part of the fun, so embrace it.
Painting, adding new items to your rooms or just rearranging what you have can give you a fresh start and make you feel so good.  For most of us, decorating is a challenge.  If we have made some bad decisions in the past we think everyone knows it. NOT TRUE!
Keep it real, keep it fun and As Always ‘Happy Painting’
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
www.kenraderinteriors.com
Follow us at www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

Use Paint to update your Bathroom

How to update your Bathroom for Minimal Expense

Paint, Texture, Fixtures, Pictures and of course A Theme!

Every homeowner wants their bathroom to look nice, but not every homeowner has the budget set aside to do extensive remodeling work. While nothing can take the place of a full remodeling job (replacing or refurnishing cabinets, putting in a new tub, expanding the space), you might be surprised at how many little tricks can make a big difference. If you have a sense of style, you can make the space look interesting and even expensive without spending a lot of money. If you're ready to get started, here are some tips that can help.

Define a Theme

Bathrooms are the one space in your house where you can really let your creative juices flow. Yet, so often people neglect the room, doing little more than just making sure it looks clean. It can be so much more than that! Have some fun with it. Think of a theme (it really doesn't matter what) and start decorating around that theme. Take the beach for example. This is an easy one, because you can readily find a million odds and ends that you can use to complete the theme. But don't restrict yourself to mass market items like those shower hooks from Target and those beach-themed rugs from Wal-Mart. Get creative.

Hang Pictures

When you think about places to hang your pictures, the bathroom is probably the last place you think of. And while it probably isn't appropriate to put your child's school portrait above the toilet, there's no reason why the walls need to be bare. Buy some artwork and hang it up. A giant, elaborate painting won't look quite right, but there are plenty of smaller pictures and pieces of art that will fit in beautifully. If you're following the theme idea, you'll instantly know what to look for. Your theme might even be "art museum", in which case maybe that elaborate painting will fit right in after all.

Update your Fixtures

It costs a lot less to put in a new faucet than it does a new sink. The same goes for the bathtub and even the toilet. Head to your favorite hardware store and take a gander at some of the choices you have when it comes to faucets and fixtures. Many homeowners never think to replace these unless the ones they had already broke. But replacing that old chrome faucet with a new gold one might be just the update your bathroom needs to look like you spent much more money than you really did.

Paint the Walls and Ceiling

Painting is probably the least expensive of all updates.  Paint is now offered in a very wide selection.  Most bathrooms can be painted with 1 to 2 gal. of paint.  And even if you have to pay $40.00 a gal. it is a small ticket item considering what it will do for your bathroom.

You can also hire a professional painter.  Most of these companies have a decorator/designer on staff that will be glad to assist you in picking the Theme and helping you decide what you can do to update the room.  This is usually a free service if you go with them for the paint job.  WOW a free service.  Doesn’t get any cheaper that that.

Be sure and have the ceiling painted as well.  And, if there happens to be.” popcorn type texture” on the ceiling.  Consider having it removed and an up to date texture applied.  This will definitely produce a big change for you.

Have fun

As Always ‘Happy Painting’

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

www.kenraderinteriors.com

Check out www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

PAINT WITH RED,PAINT WITH PASSION

I’M SEEING RED !

We usually get emotional about this.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAINT THE TOWN RED!

JUST ONE ROOM !!  HA HA

Yes red is passionate.  People love it with a passion; sometimes it makes people passionate. Not many people are neutral about it.  Though is some cultures, red is a neutral.

I have been reading some articles about red lately.  So I thought, “why not write something about red”.

I have purchased several items through the years that were red.  Cars, Trucks, furniture, clothing.  And if you were to look at what you have, you would probably find the same.

This brings me to the subject of using red paint.  Some will not use it because it does not cover as well as other colors.  This is true.  Some paint companies are now mixing red paint with primer which cuts down on the number of coats of paint needed.

Convincing those who are not red lovers to use it can be challenging.  These people will hardly get outside the box of ‘warm neutral’.  But for a little punch, RED IS IT. 

Still, just like any other color, different reds evoke different reactions.  It can have an aged, het contemporary element.  A vibrant intensity, romance, strength, power, royalty and security.

Red spices up a room like no other hue, but few dare to integrate this powerful primary color into their color selection.  Red has had a historical use and has been used as a great place to find inspiration.  You find it in every culture and nationality.

In the U.S.A. shades of red have played a very important part in shaping our views. Wallpaper patterns of circa 1900 sported ‘deep vermilion’.  In the 1930’s red was a favorite for furniture and was used to spice up a tired interior.  Mid-century modern décor used strong reds on accent walls or room dividers.  Today applications of red are paired with unexpected shades like gray and blue.  Or gold and yellow-based neutrals are also ideal complements to red.  I will call the 21^st Century palette, ‘rich in berry red’.  The use of these reds has expanded too any rooms of the home and is no longer limited to dining spaces.  Even cabinets and furniture are painted red.

Red is now classified as a ‘signature’ color.  Indeed it is bold but we now pair it with neutrals that complete the look.

Look at it this way.  What if stop signs were taupe with black letters.  Just not the same.  What color would you prefer for a ‘stop light’?  Do you get the point?

We do tire of red quicker that some other colors but it does come back around.  Some people say that ‘Blue never goes out of style’.  That is true but I would say ‘Red’ is right there with it.

Oh, by the way, I have two recliner chairs in my living room that are red leather.  I purchased them in 1990 and they are still my favorite chairs.  While we have changed the colors on our living room walls several times, they always work with what my wife chooses.  I have two fish tanks and my favorite fish in them have red color on them.

So take it out for a test drive.  Use a little or a lot of red.  I think you will be pleasantly surprised.

As Always “Happy Painting”

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.

www.kenraderinteriors.com

Follow us at facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors

Pick you Winning Color Palette

Pick Winning Color Palettes

You Can Confidently Choose Your Color Scheme

A freshly painted home adds to its value as well as its appeal. Many people find it very difficult to decide what color scheme will be the best to use to paint the inside of their homes. Some people do not trust their ability to match complementary shades. Still others are afraid they may not still like the color palette they chose in several months' time. Others just do not know where to start.

But you can pick a winning color palette for your home by considering a few simple guidelines. What colors do you know you like and usually choose to wear? What color scheme are you usually drawn to? What colors have you already painted in your home?

KNOW WHAT YOU LIKE

Before you head to your local hardware or home improvement store, take some time to think about what colors you like. You can start by investigating your closet. Is there a color that you see repeatedly in your clothes? What shade is your favorite sweater or shirt?

After you have discovered what colors dominate your wardrobe, flip through some magazines you have. What colors catch your eye? Don't analyze the why for the moment; just rip out the pages that appeal to you. If you are trying to pick a color scheme with your spouse, give him or her the opportunity to create a personal color file as well.

Once you have gathered a decent stack of images, go through and try to group them. Maybe you have a lot of warm colors, such as reds and yellows. Perhaps you have picked a more neutral palette. You should start to see some patterns as to what colors appeal to you the most. This is a good place to start when considering a winning color palette for your home. Most decorators recommend using three values of one shade of color in a room: light, medium and dark.

Now, think about the room you want to paint. What color is the floor and ceiling currently? If you don't plan on changing the rug or carpeting, you will want your new color palette to work with what you already have. This also holds true for your furniture.

Another aspect of your room to consider is the rooms that adjoin it. If you aren't planning on repainting those rooms, you will want to select a color scheme that coordinates with their wall colors. Go back to your color file, pick one or two color schemes from it that will work with your room. These do not have to exactly match any existing colors in the room. Your wall color will be a more interesting backdrop for your room if it coordinates instead.

Take Your Time
When you think you have a color palette, make a visit to the paint counter. Find the color palette you were interested in and grab some swatches in shades that are darker or lighter than you think you want. Even pick some that have slightly different tints to them. For instance, if you were thinking of painting your kitchen green, try some swatches that are a bit more blue or a bit more yellow.

Once you are home, look at the swatches in the room you are planning on painting. Try to look at them at different times of day. You may be surprised to see how different the color looks from how it did in the store. The changes in the light of a room throughout the day may also alter how the color looks.

After you have selected a color swatch that works, head back to the paint counter. Now it is time to buy enough paint for a sample. Paint a section that is at least two feet by two feet and wait for it to dry. Not only can paint dry darker than it is depicted on a sample card, but the tint may be slightly different as well. Once you are certain you are happy with your chosen palette—time to paint!

Mood and Atmosphere
Paint can be very helpful in creating a visual illusion in a room. If you have a low ceiling and you want it to seem higher, paint it in a lighter color. Or if you have the opposite concern, you can make a ceiling appear lower by painting it a darker color than the walls. Any of these useful tips can boost the perception of your home's value. Here are some other painting tricks to consider:

• Make a large room appear smaller by painting the walls with warmer or darker hues.
• Give a small room a spacious, airy feeling with the use of light colors on the walls, floors and ceiling.
• Create a focal point in a room by painting one wall a darker shade than the rest of the room, or even a complementary hue.
• If you want a more lively color palette, pair several tones together.
• Use an upholstery pattern you like to select your paint scheme and match your shades(s) to it.

Well, that was fun.  This process can become addictive. Once you do one room and it looks better that you thought. LOOK OUT!! You will want to do more.

As Always “Happy Painting”   

Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.      www.kenraderinteriors.com

Follow us on www.facebook.com/ken.rader.interiors