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Paint the Walls — Paint or Wallpaper Walls

Beginner4 mins

Part of project

Reading Nook Conversion · Step 6 of 9

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Before starting your paint application, remix your chosen paint, such as 'BEHR PREMIUM PLUS INTERIOR FLAT', using a mixing stick or paint mixing tool. Do this anytime the paint has been sitting for an extended period. Pour the paint into a small paint container. First, 'cut in' the room again using a good quality paintbrush, applying paint to the edges and corners as you did with the primer. If you left your painter's tape on after priming, you can paint directly over it. If you removed it, reapply it before this step. To avoid overloading your brush and causing drips, begin by brushing paint onto the wall first, not directly onto the tape. Brush back and forth until most of the paint is applied, then use the remaining paint on the brush to carefully paint the area next to the tape, overlapping your strokes onto the tape itself. This ensures there's minimal paint on the brush when you get to the tape, preventing seepage. Next, use a paint roller with an extension pole to apply paint to the main wall sections. Work in small, manageable 3-foot by 3-foot areas from ceiling to floor, and from one side of the wall to the other. Load your roller fully but not to the point of dripping. Roll back and forth across the wall in a series of 'V' or 'W' shaped strokes until the section is covered. After covering a section, use smooth, continuous strokes from top to bottom and back and forth without lifting the roller. These smoothing strokes even the coat and cover roller tracks. Lightly lift the roller off the wall as you overlap already painted areas to avoid end marks and blend seamlessly. Avoid painting straight up and down in rows, as this can make it harder to blend evenly and result in a striped appearance.

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FAQs

The project summary lists '4 minutes' as the estimated time, but it includes painting and electrical. Is this accurate?

The '4 minutes' refers specifically to the initial 'Clear the Closet' step, which is categorized under cleaning. The entire conversion, including wall prep, painting, electrical work, and adding furnishings, will take significantly longer, likely several hours to a full weekend, depending on your skill and the extent of modifications.

Besides basic household items, what specific tools are necessary for the electrical part of this project?

For safely installing the light fixture, you'll specifically need a wire cutter or stripper, a Phillips screwdriver, and crucially, a voltage/circuit tester to confirm power is off. Electrical tape is also listed as a material for insulating connections.

My under-stair closet walls are rough or have holes. How should I prepare them before painting or wallpapering?

After cleaning, use spackling and patching compound to fill any holes or smooth imperfections. Sand these areas once dry until smooth, then apply a coat of primer, especially if the walls are dark or stained, to ensure even paint coverage and better adhesion.

What are good strategies for making a small under-stair closet feel more spacious and functional as a reading nook?

Opt for floating shelves rather than bulky bookcases to save floor space. Choose compact, comfortable seating like a floor cushion or a small, armless chair. Using light paint colors and good lighting will also help the space feel brighter and more open.