Spice Up That Space

Discussion Policy

Comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions. You are fully responsible for the content that you post.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Ramp up the look of your kid spaces using decorative painting tips from Sunny Goode, whose new book is "Paint Can! Children's Rooms."

Use patterns low on a wall for children's rooms so they can appreciate the art at their level.

Personalizing a room, such as creating a monogram or using the child's first name or initials, makes the child feel a sense of ownership.

Paint a height chart on the wall and record your children's growth, marking it with the date. They will be delighted to see their progress.

Take inspiration from a favorite item, whether a book, a blanket or a favorite place.

Use a low-odor paint. If your house was built before 1960, beware of lead paint layers below. Get your walls tested.

A easy-to-use, inexpensive stencil can give the look of wallpaper in a room, but you can control the color and pattern yourself.