A closet waiting to be painted
Painting a closet may not be first on your wish list when you redecorate your home, but repainting these little storage rooms can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your house. Coordinating or contrasting the closet walls with the walls of the adjoining room is common, but your closet color choices are limitless. Does this Spark an idea?
What You Need
The best thing about painting closets is their relatively small size, requiring less paint. Unless you're painting a very large closet, you can get away with using leftover paint.
Closets take a lot of abuse from bumping boxes, flying shoes and falling suitcases, so use the sturdiest paint you have. Glossy paints are more durable than flat paints. Though it may be tempting to use up the rest of the paint from the ceiling or outdoor project you've just finished, stick with interior wall paint.
You'll need the normal painting implements for painting your closet: a paintbrush, roller, masking tape and tarp or newspaper to cover the floor.
Preparing the Space
Take everything out of the closet before you begin painting. This not only clears the way for painting but also gives you the opportunity to pare down your shoe collection, toss those decades-old blazers or return the borrowed outfit you "forgot" about. Wash the walls and shelves to be sure that film of dust won't come between your walls and their new coat of paint.
Choosing a Color
Your closet will look best if you choose plain white or a color that matches or contrasts with your main room color. White or another very light color can make your closet appear larger. Painting your closet the same color as the adjacent room gives the whole area a finished and put-together look. Using a contrasting color, such as the trim color, adds an element of fun and interest to your closet. Stay away from very dark colors; they tend to make closets (and rooms) appear smaller. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can paint your closet a fun color that's not found anywhere else in your home.
Clothing Bars, Shelves and Racks
If your closet features clothing bars, shelves or racks, be sure to remove or protect them prior to painting. Shelves can be painted, stained or covered in attractive shelf paper. Shelf paper is the quickest option and can easily be changed in the future if your tastes change.
Finishing Up
Because some paints can take several weeks to fully cure, plan for the items that would normally live in the newly painted closet to spend some time elsewhere. You'll be disappointed if your hard work is ruined by a box leaving an unsightly hole in your fresh paint.
Tags: your closet, closet color, color that, your closet, your closet color, your home
