Painting Your Apartment

Renting your home instead of owning has its ups and downs. Until you're able to purchase a home, make your apartment more "you". Paint is a really easy way to add character to your space, and reasonably inexpensive. That being said, don't get the cheapest paint the store has. Do some research and ask questions.  Where do you plan to paint? Does the room have windows? Is is a smaller sized room? perhaps a bathroom or kitchen? These will all influence the colour, type and price of your paint.

I am not an expert, by no means, but I found painting pretty easy and relaxing. Here are the steps I took to personalize my bathroom. I was inspired by the hit TV show Friends. Keep in mind: You'll need to ask permission from your landlord, and you may need to paint over it when you want to move out.

What you'll need:

• Paint - get the right colour for the size of the room, and the right type
• For a bathroom or kitchen you'll need special paint
• Does your paint have built in primer? You may need to get that if your original wall is a dark colour.
• Brushes - one small, one large
• Roller and tray
• Painters tape
• Rag 
• Hammer & something to pop off the lid of the paint

Steps:

• First, with a rag or sponge, use some hot soapy water to clean any splashes, dust or smudges. You probably don't ave to do this, but I like to start with a clean surface.
• Tape everything! Tape around all the edges of your doors, trim, outlets etc. If you don't want something covered in paint, cover it up with paper or plastic and tape it up. 
• Pry open your paint can using a butter knife or pliers and give it a good stir. The oils may be sitting at the top.
• Start painting! I suggest starting at the top left (or right) and working your way down and over.
• For smaller rooms or tight corners use the brushes.
• You might need to do 2 or 3 coats of paint depending on your situation.
• Allow for 6-8 hours in between each layer.

Tips:

• Keep a rag handy for drips
• wash your brushes IMMEDIATELY after use!
• Choose colours that open up a room, or maybe paint one accent wall.
• Decorate with colours and accessories that make the room exciting!
• example: I'm painting the bathroom mirror frame gold to play off the purple colour I chose

My first section to try out

Make sure to tape/cover the outlet, mirror and towel rack.

Tropical Violet. Dries a bit darker,

Good luck!

Coat #1. Not too bad!

Coat #2. Aside from touch-ups, we're done!