Refurbishment and Restore Issue 22 | Page 17

If you are working on large areas or have chosen just one colour for your pattern , double the amount of UV tape around the edges and use the Harris Ultimate Walls & Ceilings Powercoat Roller to cover the most wall and get finished even more quickly . Depending on the colours chosen , you could need more than one layer .
3 . WHAT KIND OF DESIGN TO CHOOSE Feature walls do not have to be bold or bright . A subtle pattern can create interest without being too overwhelming . Complementary colours usually work well , but a good rule of thumb is 60-30-10 . Use light colours for 60 % of the space , so it will look brighter , darker colours for 30 % and 10 % for accents or details . More than three colours is usually too much .
Highlights - Interesting architectural details can be picked out with contrasting or complementary shades . You could even be a bit playful with something very traditional like a cornice by painting in a very modern shade or adding a stripe .
The Unexpected - Remember that feature walls do not just have to be about the plaster . Picking out functional features like dados , picture rails , doors or door panels , skirting boards , steps – or maybe just the risers – in bright zingy colours can create a great look . It might sound fiddly but cutting in brushes from Harris will make the job a whole lot easier .
Stripes , blocks and geometrics - Lines , borders , formal stripes , checks or dramatic colour blocking inspired by the artist Mondrian can all be achieved with the help of good quality Harris Masking Tape and Harris not only has the kit but can also take you through the process step by step . Bigger blocks of contrasting colours can be used for zoning and for changing the mood and a broad horizontal stripe around the room can be eye-catching . You can even break away from straight lines , by
overlapping tape at different angles .
Illusions - This idea is all about tricking the eye into seeing features that are only painted effects . Stair runners are a good example . Fake dado rails or borders can be used to frame floors , fireplaces , arches , windows and other features , drawing attention to them . You could even outline a window frame with a stripe of paint to create a ‘ picture-like ’ effect ; or create the illusion of 3D on a wall just by painting the sides of it in a slightly darker shade . Again , Harris masking tape is the key decorating aid required .
Decorating tools from Harris are available through many DIY stores – see the stockist list on www . harrisbrushes . com . For more information about Harris decorating tools , preparation and cleaning products , plus invaluable hints and tips on all key decorating projects , visit www . harrisbrushes . com . All with the help from Harris … let ’ s decorate .
www . harrisbrushes . com
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