how to: add style to your home

Is your home just crying for a makeover? Whether you're looking to do a total redecorating job, need help merging your styles, or just want to give a room a little pick-me-up, you're in the right place with our expert decorating advice. Choosing your decor style can be tricky territory for newlyweds, especially if you've never lived together and your home styles aren't entirely in sync. But even if you've been sharing your space for a while, choosing your decor style means incorporating both of your needs. So where to begin? If you're starting from scratch or looking to redecorate, you need to think big. Luckily, we've got expert decorating advice on key rooms, from 5 tips for a luxurious living room to 6 secrets for a sexy bedroom. Have a question about more specific home styles? You'll find stylish solutions to all your questions, from best bedding options to doing over your bathroom. Or do you just want ideas for easy (and inexpensive!) decor fixes? Spice up your living space with our tips on budget bedroom makeovers, easy decor tricks, and displaying photos and art. We've also tracked down fabulous decor finds to suit all different home styles, including shabby-chic favorites, decor picks on a budget, and colorful kitchen accents. And check out style how-tos on everything from dressing up your mantel and arranging your coffee table with flair to creating beautiful blooming arrangements and using feng shui. With our expert decorating advice, choosing your decor style is simple.

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How to Stencil Walls

Stop, wait, no need to cringe. Stenciling is totally not as cheesy and fifth grade as it sounds. It’s actually a quick, forgiving way to add interest and texture to your walls and is so much easier than changing wallpaper. Here’s a basic lesson in how to do it (just repeat the first three steps wherever you want the stenciled image):

1. Start by picking out your stencil. You can buy one, or make it using thick plastic or even posterboard (use an X-Acto knife or a box cutter, respectively) to cut out the pattern.

2. Use painter’s tape to secure your stencil to the wall. Get it straight by using a ruler and a level before you tape it on the wall.

3. Put a thin layer of paint on your roller, and go over the stencil that’s been taped on the wall. If you have a particularly intricate design and/or want to use more than color, you might need a paintbrush as well. Just remember to always start with the lightest color.

4. Have fun with it! There are tons of easy ways to spruce up a simple stencil. Use different tones for different areas. If you’re artsy, do some freehand work around some of the stencil edges. Stencil your whole room, or just one or two focal points for a more edgy look.

Nestpert: Jennifer Bertrand, season three Design Star winner (http://www.hgtv.com/paint-over/show/index.html)

Cracks in Your Wall? Learn How to Caulk a Wall.

-- Paula Kashtan

Oct 25, 2010

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