Accidents happen.  When it involves a painted surface, it is comforting to know that you still have some leftover paint to take care of a repair.  But, have you ever been sadly disappointed to open up that old can and find that the paint is no longer usable?

There are 2 major factors to consider that will extend the usability of your paint:  air and temperature.  Here are some tips while painting that will help your leftover paint last for years to come.

 While painting:

• When starting to paint, transfer the amount you will need into a separate container, clean the well around the rim and replace the lid.  This reduces the amount of time that the product is exposed to air.

• Never add water directly into a can of paint.  It will spoil prematurely or mold will form.

• In the event your latex paint is too thick, take out the amount you will need and place it in a separate container before adding water.  Then discard any diluted paint.

• Don’t load your brush or roller directly from the can.  Small amounts of dried paint or dirt can be introduced into your fresh paint.

• In the event your latex paint is too thick, take out the amount you will need and place it in a separate container before adding water.  Then discard any diluted paint.

Need to know how to store your paints after your project is done? Check back next week for Part 2: Storing your paints!

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The Design Process:

Designer, Janie Smith, of 3 Gates Interiors knows how to make every square inch an opportunity to incorporate this style.  The use of rectilinear lines is consistent throughout the design of this home.  She began by identifying the elegance of a simple square as inspiration.  Notice how each element in this space compliments that theme.

For the walls, a monotone color scheme emphasizes the beauty of simplicity in this tiny room.  A faux finish of raised stenciled squares appears randomly on the far wall and up to the ceiling.  They are featured prominently with highlights of gold tones that catch your eye and tie in with the intricate pattern of the mirror.  A soft stria wall glazing technique makes it apparent that each raised stencil is dimensional and applied by hand.

Look closely again.  Can you identify all of the places where a simple square has been used to complete this design?  In a small space, every square inch counts.

To view more transformations, visit my website at www.kasswilson.com.

We are extremely excited to offer an update to the way we keep our fans inspired. Just like before, our goal with this website and blog is to share exciting before and after photos of actual projects. Watch for them in your IN box, become a fan on our FB page or sign up via the RSS feed.

As an added bonus, it will now include some quick tricks of the trade, thoughts about the design process and even some personalized insights about the artist, Kass Wilson. As we keep growing, we also keep learning about new techniques, current trends and innovative ideas that are now available in the world of artistic surface finishes, decorative artistry and faux finishes. We have some new and creative ways to share this info with you as well.

We welcome you to take a look around and familiarize yourself with the new format. Feel free to contact our office or leave a comment with any questions regarding services or scheduling appointments. Is there something specific you’d like us to feature in a blog post? YOUR ideas are a great source of inspiration to us and we would love to hear from you!

This faux finish was developed to compliment the richness of the irridescent pillows.  The result is dramatic walls as an elegant backdrop for the eclectic mix of furnishings.  Five layers of rich color entice you to touch the walls. Despite the depth and dimension, eveyone is amazed to find this faux finish  so smooth.