The Coshocton County Beacon September 17, 2020 | Page 18

18 • The Beacon September 17, 2020 An accent wall can change the look of a room By Jen Jones Everyone knows a fresh coat of paint can drastically change the look of a room, but what if you are looking for something with more of a “wow” factor? Try adding an accent wall. It can be as simple as painting one wall a bright color or as time-consuming as putting up a pallet or tile wall. There are several ways people add accent walls to their homes: by painting, wall paper, stenciling, tile or wood (shiplap and pallet are the most popular right now). No matter what skills you have as a do-ityourself person, there is an easy option for you. The easiest way to add an accent wall would be to paint it. Some people choose a neutral color for three walls such as gray and a bright color for the fourth wall, like red. Black also is a popular choice as an accent right now. Consider what wall you want to be the focus. Behind your TV is probably not the best choice, especially if you choose a bright paint. Many people choose the wall around the door coming into the room. Pick up several paint samples and see what colors you like together. It will be easier if you choose your main color first and then match your accent to it. If you don’t want to go too bright, choose a color that matches your other walls but pick one that is several shades lighter or darker than your walls. If you aren’t sure, many home-improvement stores sell sample jars of paint (and will mix whatever color you like), and you can simply put small areas on your walls. Be sure to paint several patches around your room so you can see how the color looks in different light. If you have artistic skills, or patience, you can try stenciling on your accent wall. Craft stores sell hundreds of stencils, Jen Jones Everyone knows a fresh coat of paint can drastically change the look of a room, but what if you are looking for something with more of a “wow” factor? Try adding an accent wall. so you will be sure to see something you like. You also can purchase wall “stickers.” Basically, they are vinyl stickers you can use to decorate walls in your home. These aren’t too expensive, and many are movable (be sure to read the label carefully). Another option is to wallpaper your accent wall. Wallpaper is making a huge comeback, and many designers are using it in their homes. If you decide to use wallpaper, measure your area very carefully. Many papers have a long pattern, which means you may need several rolls of paper for a small area. The pattern needs to match up from one piece to the next. Long patterns often mean there is a lot of unused paper, which can get expensive. When you look at paper, make sure to read whether it needs glue or if all you need is to get it wet to activate the glue. If you have never put up wallpaper, you may want to consider hiring someone to do it. It isn’t difficult, but if you don’t prepare your walls (clean, dry, patched places), your paper may not stick as well as you want. Also, older houses may be harder to wallpaper due to settling that causes uneven walls, ceilings and floors. Using shiplap or pallets on a wall is very popular right now. If you don’t have access to pallets, you can choose any new wood you like. Pine is reasonably priced and can be stained. It also is easy to cut (some harder woods are expensive and harder to cut and install). You can stain it different colors or choose to coat it with clear polyurethane. Again, whether you install a pallet wall yourself or hire someone depends on your skill level and whether you have the needed tools. You will need an air nailer and a See accent Page 20 All together now. Century National Bank is taking on our family name. BF-00492416 parknationalbank.com BF-00491793