6 How-To-Paint Tutorials To Try

By  Laurie Gunning Grossman
Chalk paint and brush Trisha Sprouse for Hunker

Is your space in need of a refresh? Adding color is an easy way to give your home a quick pick-me-up, so we've rounded up our most popular how-to-paint tutorials and projects. Grab your brush, lay down the drop cloths, and let's get started.

1. Paint a Filing Cabinet

Teal colored filing cabinet with wood legs on rug with plant on top.Sara Albers for Hunker

Filing cabinets can be, for the most part, a bit blah. But with a homemade paint job, your filing cabinet could very well become your favorite fixture in your office space. All you need is spray paint, wood peg table legs, and modern black drawer handles to update an outdated look.

2. Paint a Jute Rug

Painted jute rug in entryway hall next to benchTrisha Sprouse for Hunker

The first time you paint a plain natural fiber rug with a one-of-a-kind pattern, you'll never consider paying for a Moroccan vintage rug again. (That is, if you even considered it in the first place.) This DIY solution is so easy and so affordable. Two of our favorite reasons to do anything.

3. Paint a Rattan Chair

Green rattan chair with white pillow on sheepskin rug.Sara Albers for Hunker

Rattan has been all the rage, but what if you want something more than the natural look? You pick your favorite color of spray paint and go to work. We've got tips on how to reinvent rattan furniture, because there are things you should know as you get started.

4. Use Chalk Paint on Furniture

Paint brush and small can of slate colored paint on white furniture.Trisha Sprouse for Hunker

This DIY is one of our most popular tutorials on Pinterest — it seems as though everyone is crushing on the chalk paint look. But what exactly is chalk paint? How is it different than oil-based or latex paint? Are there special techniques for applying it? And ... can you make your own?! We answer all these questions and more.

5. Limewash Your Walls

Table with lit candle and two blue chairs against white lime-washed wall with framed paintingTrisha Sprouse for Hunker

We just adore the weathered, Old World vibe of limewashed walls. It gives a two-tone effect with plenty of highlights and lowlights to any room. If you're wanting to step out of the paint box, this is definitely a technique to try. We'll show you how.

6. Paint a Bedroom Door

Door painted putty colorTrisha Sprouse for Hunker

People wrote to us, specifically wanting to know how to paint a bedroom door. Our bedrooms are our sanctuary, so we get it. If your sleep space needs a refresh, painting the door is an easy upgrade. But there are specific tips and tricks you should be aware of before you begin, so we lay out all the steps.

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