New Year, New House, New Name

2009: 

I really do exist. I've just been in hibernation. Babybear and I moved into our new "cave" and I've been busy settling in. So the crafting has been put on hold for the time being. 

BUT- Here's what I've learned thus far about painting. 

1. I really love Dutch Boy's DuraClean and Refresh- there's hardly any smell and it's designed to be better for the environment. (Available at Menard's.) 

2. If you didn't buy enough paint and have to go back for more, don't take back the paint card, it's not enough- especially if it's not a color that was designed for the paint you purchased. Instead, take back the lid to the old can- it will specifically list exactly what was mixed to get the correct color. B/c there are usually three different ways to mix the same color- even with the same paint card. 

*TRUST ME- I took back the paint card and we actually had the rest of the living room painted before we realized that they were different shades of the same color. :(

3. When painting wood paneling, use an oil-based primer to get the paint to "stick". Strange but true and then any latex paint will go right on. 

4. You really shouldn't use your roller to paint in all kinds of directions...... it seems obvious. 

5. To avoid that streaky look- If you're going to use a dark color, like a deep red, make sure to use a tinted primer FIRST and then paint- otherwise, your wall will show up with streaks of "white" and it won't matter how many coats you put on. 

I also went back to my maiden name.... lots of change going on this year. :) 

I'm going to attend skappingirl's personal planner class this weekend and I am so excited. So hopefully I will have something very cool to show you- soon and very soon. 

The "cave" open house has been scheduled so I should have something more to share. Ciao!