As a homeowner, to redecorate your property can be a fulfilling accomplishment, but the process itself can be filled with unexpected challenges. Having recently gone through the experience myself, I’ve learned a few things—both the right and the wrong ways to tackle redecorating. Here’s a guide based on my journey, so you can learn from any mistakes I made and get it right the first time.
The Right Way: Choosing Appropriate Colours
The first step in redecorating is often deciding on a colour scheme. It seems straightforward, but getting it right can make or break your space. I spent hours agonising over paint samples, holding swatches against walls, and trying to envision how each colour would look in different lighting. One lesson I learned is to test the colours on your walls before committing. What looks great in the shop can look entirely different in your home.
When choosing colours, consider the mood you want to create in each room. Light colours can make a space feel larger and more open, while darker tones add cosiness and warmth. I opted for a soft grey in the living room, which added a modern touch without making the space feel cold.
The Wrong Way: Not Protecting Your Furniture & Floors
Preparation is key when it comes to redecorating. One of my biggest mistakes was not being thorough enough in protecting my furniture and floors. I was eager to get started, so I quickly threw some sheets over the sofa and laid a few drop cloths on the floor. I thought it would be enough. It wasn’t.
As I started painting, I noticed drips and splatters finding their way onto the timber floor and even onto the edges of the sofa. These little accidents added unnecessary stress to the project and took extra time to clean up. The lesson here? Take the time to properly cover everything. Use high-quality drop cloths, and ensure they are securely taped down to avoid any gaps. Also, consider moving as much furniture out of the room as possible to give yourself plenty of space to work.
The Right Way: Redecorating With The Right Tools
When it comes to painting, I initially thought that all brushes and rollers were the same. I was wrong. I opted for cheap tools, thinking they would do the job just as well. Unfortunately, they didn’t. The brushes didn’t cut in well, leaving uneven lines where the walls met the ceiling. The rollers didn’t coat the walls evenly, leading to patchy areas that required multiple coats.
After struggling with poor-quality tools, I finally invested in some decent brushes and rollers. The difference was night and day. The paint went on smoothly, and the edges looked crisp and professional. If you’re planning to redecorate, don’t skimp on your tools. Quality brushes and rollers will save you time, frustration, and the need for touch-ups later on.
The Wrong Way: Cutting In Without Practice
Cutting in—the process of painting along the edges where walls meet ceilings, corners, and skirting boards—was by far the most challenging part of the job. I thought I could handle it with just a steady hand, but it turns out that technique and the right tools are crucial.
Initially, I found it difficult to achieve a clean, straight line, especially with the cheap brushes I had bought. The paint bled onto the ceiling, and my lines were anything but straight. After some trial and error, I learned that using painter’s tape can help create a crisp edge, especially for beginners. However, with a bit of practice and a quality brush, I eventually got the hang of it. The key is to take your time and not rush the process. A steady hand and patience will yield the best results.
Redecorating Tips & What I Would Do Differently Next Time
Looking back, there are a few things I would do differently if I were to redecorate again. First, I would spend more time on preparation. Properly covering floors and furniture is essential to avoid the mess that I had to deal with. Secondly, I would invest in quality tools from the start. Good brushes and rollers make a significant difference in the final result and can save you a lot of headaches.
Finally, I would take my time with each step of the process. Redecorating isn’t something that should be rushed. It’s better to do it right the first time than to have to go back and fix mistakes later. Despite the challenges, the end result was worth it—a beautifully redecorated home that I can be proud of.
So, if you’re planning to redecorate your home, take these lessons to heart. With careful planning, the
