Home Repair and Paint Guide

... Use the correct paint and it will last for many years.  This is a job that anyone can do with a little patience. Make sure the area to be painted is clean and free of all grease and wax. Use a tile cleaner or mix a small amount of ammonia in water. Dry thoroughly and wipe with an old towel to remove any film left behind during cleaning. Use a water based paint that contains urethane resin. This will stick to the tile and prevent peeling. You can purchase paint that is specifically designed for tiles from paint supply and home improvement centers. Stencils can be purchased at craft and home improvement stores. They come in a wide variety of designs and are very easy to use. They can be held in-place with masking tape or stencil spray. You can use any type of brush, but there are special stencil brushes available that make the job easier. Use just a very small amount of paint to keep it from leaking under the edges of the stencil. Apply the stencil to one area at at time. Dip the brush into the paint and wipe off the excess with a paper towel. Gently apply the paint from the outside of the stencil inwards. Don’t use too much paint or it will leak under the edges of the design. For a speckled effect, hold the brush perpendicular to the wall and dab the paint into the pattern. Let the paint set a little before removing the stencil. Once a stencil becomes loaded with paint, discard it and use a fresh one. Continue working around the countertop until finished. Be sure to measure accurately before starting so everything lines up properly ...