Introduction

Decorating is the key to transforming a functional living space into a comfortable home that is uniquely yours. The nearly limitless variety of decorating techniques, materials, colors, patterns, and accents that can be used in any room in your home provides endless options for customization—and an inherent creative challenge. With so many choices, where do you start? The Complete Photo Guide to Home Decorating Projects will guide your creative vision and provide the know-how to complete nearly any decorating project with professional quality and designer results. Whether you plan to reinvent your living room with new upholstery, window treatments, decorative painting, and an aluminum-gilded ceiling or you merely want to know the best way to hang artwork and shelving, this volume provides clear, step-by-step instructions with large, easy-to-follow photographs to guide each project from start to finish. To ensure that you love your completed project, always begin by envisioning the atmosphere and design scheme that best suits your room’s needs and your personal style. Also, take stock of the tools, materials, and skills needed to be successful. “Decorating Basics,” the first section of this book, is intended for exactly that purpose. Focused on principles of good design and on the basic skills and tools needed to achieve high-quality results, this section is a must for every decorator. With these resources, you can confidently create a home décor that truly reflects your abilities and creative intent. Each of the remaining sections is composed of a set of projects associated with one element of room design, such as “Wall Paint,” “Cabinets & Doors,” and “Furniture Refinishing.” Projects are widely varied, encompassing both large and small commitments, varied skill levels, and both innovative and time-tested techniques. Let these projects help you complete common tasks—such as installing curtains, applying wallcoverings, or installing a tile backsplash correctly. Or let them inspire you to take on a more challenging project such as installing wainscot frames, sewing a custom-fit slipcover, or applying sophisticated painting techniques to walls, ceilings, and floors. Successfully completing a decorating project will be one of the most creative, most rewarding, most fun ways you can invest in your home while also achieving a lasting impact on its value. In addition, the beauty and personality you create will become a part of your family’s story for years to come. Add the extensive resources of The Complete Photo Guide to Home Decorating Projects to your own creative energy and get started on your first project today