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Paint the Walls

From Reading Nook Conversion · Step 6 of 9 · Video by The Home Depot

Showing 6:28–8:45 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.

What happens in this clip

Before starting your paint application, remix your chosen paint, such as 'BEHR PREMIUM PLUS INTERIOR FLAT', using a mixing stick or paint mixing tool. Do this anytime the paint has been sitting for an extended period. Pour the paint into a small paint container. First, 'cut in' the room again using a good quality paintbrush, applying paint to the edges and corners as you did with the primer. If you left your painter's tape on after priming, you can paint directly over it. If you removed it, reapply it before this step. To avoid overloading your brush and causing drips, begin by brushing paint onto the wall first, not directly onto the tape. Brush back and forth until most of the paint is applied, then use the remaining paint on the brush to carefully paint the area next to the tape, overlapping your strokes onto the tape itself. This ensures there's minimal paint on the brush when you get to the tape, preventing seepage. Next, use a paint roller with an extension pole to apply paint to the main wall sections. Work in small, manageable 3-foot by 3-foot areas from ceiling to floor, and from one side of the wall to the other. Load your roller fully but not to the point of dripping. Roll back and forth across the wall in a series of 'V' or 'W' shaped strokes until the section is covered. After covering a section, use smooth, continuous strokes from top to bottom and back and forth without lifting the roller. These smoothing strokes even the coat and cover roller tracks. Lightly lift the roller off the wall as you overlap already painted areas to avoid end marks and blend seamlessly. Avoid painting straight up and down in rows, as this can make it harder to blend evenly and result in a striped appearance.

Goal: Apply an even, streak-free coat of paint to all wall surfaces for a professional finish.

What's used

Tools

  • 5-Gallon Bucket Unknown (orange bucket shown)
  • Extension Pole Unknown (red/black pole shown)
  • Mixing Stick or Paint Mixing Tool
  • Paint Container Unknown (blue container shown)
  • Cup
  • Paint Grid
  • Paint Roller
  • Paintbrush
  • Roller Tray

Materials

  • Paint BEHR PREMIUM PLUS INTERIOR FLAT
  • Paint with different sheen

About the full video

This project provides a detailed guide on how to prepare a room for painting, including surface preparation, masking with painter's tape, protecting floors and furniture, and then applying primer and paint using proper techniques to achieve professional-looking results. Emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation to avoid common mistakes and ensure a high-quality finish.

Step 6 of 9: Paint or Wallpaper Walls

Apply primer if necessary, especially if changing colors dramatically or covering stains. Apply your chosen paint color or wallpaper according to manufacturer instructions. Ensure even coverage and allow adequate drying time between coats.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in Reading Nook Conversion

  1. Step 1: Clear the Closet

  2. Step 2: Inspect and Clean Walls

  3. Step 3: Assess Electrical Needs

  4. Step 4: Install Lighting

  5. Step 5: Prepare Walls for Finishing

  6. Step 6: Paint or Wallpaper Walls

  7. Step 7: Install Shelving

  8. Step 8: Add Seating

  9. Step 9: Add Decorative Touches

Questions about Reading Nook Conversion

The project summary lists '4 minutes' as the estimated time, but it includes painting and electrical. Is this accurate?

The '4 minutes' refers specifically to the initial 'Clear the Closet' step, which is categorized under cleaning. The entire conversion, including wall prep, painting, electrical work, and adding furnishings, will take significantly longer, likely several hours to a full weekend, depending on your skill and the extent of modifications.

Besides basic household items, what specific tools are necessary for the electrical part of this project?

For safely installing the light fixture, you'll specifically need a wire cutter or stripper, a Phillips screwdriver, and crucially, a voltage/circuit tester to confirm power is off. Electrical tape is also listed as a material for insulating connections.

My under-stair closet walls are rough or have holes. How should I prepare them before painting or wallpapering?

After cleaning, use spackling and patching compound to fill any holes or smooth imperfections. Sand these areas once dry until smooth, then apply a coat of primer, especially if the walls are dark or stained, to ensure even paint coverage and better adhesion.

What are good strategies for making a small under-stair closet feel more spacious and functional as a reading nook?

Opt for floating shelves rather than bulky bookcases to save floor space. Choose compact, comfortable seating like a floor cushion or a small, armless chair. Using light paint colors and good lighting will also help the space feel brighter and more open.

I'm hesitant to do electrical work. Are there alternative lighting options for my reading nook?

Yes, you can use plug-in sconces, LED strip lights, or battery-operated puck lights. These options provide illumination without requiring permanent electrical installation. Ensure any plug-in lights have a convenient outlet nearby and can be safely routed.

Reading Nook Conversion

Transform an under-stair closet into a cozy and functional reading space by clearing, potentially modifying walls, adding lighting, comfortable seating, and shelving.

Read the full guide Browse all guides

Planning this project? Shop Oak Valley Designs.

Paint the Walls — Reading Nook Conversion | Oak Valley Designs

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