Painting is not one of our favorite things. But spray painting, now that’s fun. There’s just something about hearing that little marble (or whatever it is) shake around in the can and then depressing the nozzle and watching whatever you’re aiming at (and sometimes not) be transformed. But nowadays, there’s a new economy to spray painting. It’s a simple, fast, and inexpensive way to renew just about anything. From wicker furniture to old bottles, from appliances to even sofas, all you need is some inspiration, information, and a strong index finger. Here are six ideas to get you thinking. Many more can be found on the websites of paint manufacturers. Ready, aim….
Refinish old appliances. If your refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, or even toaster is a bit beat up, then Thomas’ Liquid Stainless Steel paint (www.liquidstainlesssteel.com) could be your easy alternative to a pricey and disruptive kitchen renovation. The water-based paint actually contains microscopic particles of stainless steel. It’s recommended that the brush-on variety be used for big appliances, but you can spray-paint smaller ones. And yes, in case you’re wondering, your refrigerator magnets will still stick.
Brighten up your wardrobe. Old T-shirts, blouses, and even blue jeans become blank canvases with aerosol fabric paints such as Simply Spray. This product works best on light-colored cotton fabric, but you should always test a concealed patch first. The website (simplyspray.com) offers downloadable stencil patterns and other creative ideas. Great for making youth team jerseys and securing your claim to the World’s Best Soccer Mom.
Make over your sofa. That’s right, it’s possible to spray-paint your sofa. Simply Spray also makes an upholstery fabric paint that’s available in nine colors. It works best on light-colored couches, though, and depending on the size of your lounger, you may need quite a few of the 8-ounce $12 cans. Warning: If you decide to undertake this project, make sure you wake up your husband first.
Decorate your doorknobs. If yours are anything like ours, they’re probably pretty nicked and scuffed. Applying a metallic-finish spray paint is an easy way to perk up a previously dingy entryway or provide a sunnier welcome for visitors. Check your nearest home-supply store for brands.
Perk up your plants. For an instant deck, patio, or kitchen-window brightener, color those dingy terra-cotta pots. Krylon Outdoor Spaces Satin Finish spray paints come in lime, mango, watermelon, and lemon. (Full instructions at http://www.krylon.com/projects/outdoor/terra-cotta/index.jsp.)
Takes just 1 hour!
Put a new stamp on your mailbox. So many nice homes have such crummy mailboxes. Make it so that yours makes a statement. Use Krylon’s Fusion spray paint for plastics, its X-Metals line for aluminum boxes, or its Exterior Semi-Transparent Stain for wood models. (Instructions at http://www.krylon.com/projects/outdoor/plastic-mailbox/index.jsp.) So easy you can change it up every year. (Just make sure to put a Wet Paint sign out for your mail carrier.)
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