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Decorative effects are exciting – it's easy to get carried away with your enthusiasm and want to get started as soon as you can. Don’t be too hasty though, you may regret it. As with any successful paint job careful preparation is key, which means not just surface preparation (see "4 steps to success") but also having the right tools, using the right paint and making sure you have enough for the job in hand (see "cost calculator"). Here’s a handy checklist before you "get decorative":

1 Protection: Cover furniture, curtains and carpet with old sheets to prevent any damage.

2. Preparation: Make sure that all holes have been filled and sanded and are free of dust.

3. Mask appropriate surfaces: If you're not confident with paint or using a paint brush, it's a good idea to invest in buying decorator's tape. This is ideal for "cutting in" – a decorator’s term for masking one surface from another to get a precise neat line; usually applied around windows, doors, ceilings and skirting. Decorator's tape is preferable to masking tape, as it is designed to be kind on painted surfaces and should not remove existing paint!. Most importantly, it gives you attractive crisp edges, making the end result look professional.

4. Choose quality tools: Buying a cheap brush or roller will mean you compromise on the look of the finish and the speed with which you can complete the job. With brushes this can easily result in spending many frustrating hours picking loose bristles from freshly painted walls!

5. Priming: It is advisable to prime bare surfaces before you begin your paint job.

6. Use a high quality paint: it's worth the investment, and makes sure the end result will have longevity. For all the decorative effects described here, pure acrylic emulsion paint has been chosen in combination with pure acrylic glaze.
Acrylic technology gives several benefits not only on application but in the appearance of the finish. Key benefits are:

• The finish has a lesser tendency to yellow over time
• Easy to use – can be washed off while wet
• Can easily be painted over with water based products
• Easy to thin down (simply add water)
• Fewer fumes compared to solvent-based products
• Quick drying
• Glaze remains wet for long enough, allowing an extended working time.
• Easy to wipe clean

Overall, once dry, the finish will be extremely durable – ensuring a tough and beautiful long- lasting finish.

7. Seal the finish – Apply a quality pure acrylic varnish using either a roller or brush. This will preserve the result of your hard efforts.

8. Before you start….!
As a basic rule, when you're trying any of the techniques listed here, it is best to first practice on a cardboard box or another surface before starting to apply the technique on your walls. Get a sense for how much glaze to remove and what level of firmness you need to ensure the desired effect is achieved. Only when you're confident of the technique should you start on the walls!

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