Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Paint a Concrete Floor

What do you do with a concrete floor when you don't have the budget for carpet or wood? Paint, what else?! It's a great way to customize your look, it creates huuuuuuge interest, and it turns blah into fabulous.
Check it out:




Be sure to clean the floor thoroughly before you prime/paint, and I do mean thoroughly: wash, sand, vacuum, wash again.
You'll love the look and it's easy enough to do. But if you're lacking ambition call Painting Ladies: 312.420.2367. We love transforming bland to beautiful.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

It's Never What You Do...

My friend Janice Koerber from Many Hats Homeworks says, "It's never what you do, it's what you don't do that people notice."
Isn't that so true? Here's an example: I recently painted a bathroom. It was a gorgeous, deep blue and looked fabulous when I finished (I'm manic about clean lines and straight edges, especially important with dark colors). Later, I went to an open house at the client's and when I went into the bathroom...horrors! the front part of the vanity had been removed, leaving a 2" gap between the edge of the new paint and the wall. In a situation like that your eye goes directly (do not pass Go, do not collect $200) to that unpainted area. It doesn't matter how meticulous the rest of the job is, THAT'S what you see. I wanted to put up a sign that said, "THIS IS NOT HOW I LEFT IT!" or run out and get more paint and fix it on the spot. I was mortified.
It's never what you do...!

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Sprucing Up Your Space on a Budget

If your space is looking a bit tired but your budget is on the modest side you can still spruce it up with a little creativity. Think about painting just one wall for a splash of color and to brighten your room. Pick one of the colors that shows up in your upholstery, drapes, or rug; a color that appears often enough that an accent wall will tie everything together.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Tips for Flawless Painting: Wall Preparation

One of the most important aspects of painting is to prep the walls appropriately. If you are going to paint over semi-gloss or high gloss you must sand the surface first to make your new paint adhere. I recommend a medium to fine grade sanding block that costs less than $3.00. A light once-over is all that's needed.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Painting Project Completed in South Loop Chicago

Our most recently completed project is a new construction in the South Loop. Using grey and heather tones we integrated the master bedroom and bath, hallway, entry and livingroom. The feel is very modern yet inviting. Pictures to come!