Interior design maven and host of HGTV's "Myles of Style," Kim Myles, will answer a question submitted from an ESSENCE.com reader every day. Kim believes that interior design should offer a lifestyle that's chic,
vibrant and attainable for every homeowner or renter. "My goal is to
offer simple solutions that help the average person achieve the look
that they want without going into debt. There is absolutely no reason
for great design to be overly expensive or exclusive," she declares. Today's topic: Painting corners Read more: For more "Life, Style & Design" stories, click here.Kim Myles: Before and After"Myles of Style" Makeovers
Interior design maven and host of HGTV’s “Myles of Style,” Kim Myles, will answer a question submitted from an ESSENCE.com reader every day. Kim believes that interior design should offer a lifestyle that’s chic, vibrant and attainable for every homeowner or renter. “My goal is to offer simple solutions that help the average person achieve the look that they want without going into debt. There is absolutely no reason for great design to be overly expensive or exclusive,” she declares. Today’s topic: Painting corners Dear Kim,Every Spring I paint some space in my small townhouse, but it never comes out right. The paint touches the ceilings the doors, even though I use tape. What am I doing wrong? KIM MYLES: The key to a crisp clean edge when using painter’s tape is to add a coat of sealer before the paint. This eliminates air pockets under the tape, and will virtually ensure a perfect line. Step 1: Apply your tape, and be sure to burnish it (rub along its edge in a circular motion with your fingers to heat and seal the adhesive). Step 2: Mix 1 part Acrylic Gel Medium (Michael’s Crafts, Blick Art Supply, and Pearl Paint all sell versions) to 2 parts water. Step 3: Using a sponge brush, apply a thin coat of the mixture along the edge of the tape–half on the wall, half on the tape. Step 4: Let dry for 30 minutes, then paint! Another big help is to pull the painter’s tape when the wall is 3/4 of the way dry. Most people wait until it’s completely dry, but I’ve found that if the wall is still just slightly damp you avoid rips and ripples in the paint edge. Read more:
Need help selecting furniture for your space? Have a disagreement with your spouse on a color to paint your walls? Toddlers making your home look like a storm rolled through it and need help adjusting for their mess? Send your design question to webmaster@essence-online.com. Please keep the questions brief and as detailed as possible. Remember, the more information you offer, the more Kim will be able to help!