Thanks to HGTV and DIY, there’s always something to change or improve at my house. I routinely move furniture, change window treatments, and hang pictures. Occasionally, I tackle more ambitious decorating projects, with varying degrees of success. It’s those varying degrees that have given me a few headaches over the years. Here are some of my biggest interior decorating blunders, and tips for avoiding the same mistakes.
Choosing Wallpaper
Taping samples to my walls didn’t help me choose the right wallpaper. In fact, I might have made a better choice if I had closed my eyes and picked one.
I removed the wallpaper after two weeks. You won’t make the same mistake if you:
Do your homework before you start browsing through all those wallpaper books. You should know the styles and colors you like, but more importantly, you should know what you don’t like.
Ask for help. A professional can point you in the right direction, and keep you focused on your goal.
If you don’t like what you see, stop wallpapering. Remember – what goes up, must come down.
Selecting Hardwood Flooring
When I chose the hardwood flooring for my living room, I thought I had thoroughly vetted all the candidates. However, as each plank was laid, it became increasingly obvious I had made a big mistake. My dream living room looked more like a dance studio than the warm and inviting room I had envisioned. I had no alternative but to stop the installation.
I eventually got the flooring I wanted, but you will do it right the first time if you:
Establish your style before visiting any stores.
Request large samples, and view them from several angles and positions in your home.
When your order is delivered, open several bundles of flooring, perform a mock installation, and confirm the hardwood meets your expectations. If not, cancel the installation.
Painting Staircase Spindles
Because I took short cuts when painting my staircase spindles, I had to deal with peeling paint.
Eventually I had to repaint the spindles, but you won’t have to if you:
Sand the stained spindles with finely grained sandpaper. Be careful not to leave sanding marks that may permanently damage the word.
Remove sanding dust from the spindles, and then apply primer. Let the primer dry.
Apply the necessary coats of paint.
Using Semi-gloss Paint
Scuff marks and handprints motivated my decision to apply a fresh coat of paint to my walls. However, using semi-gloss paint was a mistake.
I had to repaint the walls in flat paint because the semi-gloss paint spotlighted all the wall imperfections.
Choosing Paint Color
When I chose the paint for our basement family room, I didn’t take into account the room’s light limitations. Room size and natural lighting should be considered before you make your paint selection.
Sources:
Wallpaper
Hardwood Flooring
Spindles