How to Paint a Kids Room Two Tone

Painting a wall in two coordinating colors creates a sense of depth and definition, especially in a child's room which may not contain a lot of furniture. For the most dramatic approach, choose the lightest and the darkest colors from the same paint sample.

Things You'll Need

• 2 paint trays 2 paint rollers 2 paint colors Pencil Chalk line Level Measuring tape Pre-stained chair rail (1-by-4) Finishing nails Hammer

Instructions

1. Measure the walls. Determine the location on the wall where you want the two colors to meet. Typically, when using a chair rail on the wall, it should be positioned 3 to 4 feet from the floor. With a pencil, mark the proper height around the wall.

2. Use a chalk line. Pop a chalk line at the desired height on the wall. Use a level to determine if the chalk line is even.

3. Paint. Using a separate paint roller and paint tray for each color, roll the paint onto the wall, stopping at the chalk line. It is okay to leave an unpainted gap surrounding the chalk line, because it will be covered by the chair rail.

4. Install the chair rail. Allow the paint to dry for several hours. Measure and cut the chair rail according to the length of each wall. Position the chair rail over the chalk line and secure it to the wall by using finishing nails and a hammer.

Tips & Warnings

• In an effort to make a small room appear bigger, paint the bottom portion of the wall with the darker color. Having a darker color at the bottom will also help to hide any dirt or marks put on the wall by your child.