Things You'll Need
Plastic sheeting
Drop cloths
Spackling compound
Putty knife
Fine sanding block
Water-based primer
Roller
Roller frame
Paint tray
Paint rags
Latex paint
Changing a wall from fire engine red to pastel green is a dramatic change in wall color. Painting over red paint can sometimes take longer than most paint projects if the right steps aren't taken. Some red paints have extra pigment added which may seep through additional layers of paint. The red may continue to seep through over layering colors, no matter how many coats you apply. Use a primer when covering red walls or ceilings to avoid painting several layers of additional paint on the surface. The primer will seal off the red paint and give the new paint an even finish and sheen.
Preparation
Step 1
Remove all furniture from the room. Move any remaining furniture three feet from the wall. Take down all pictures and wall décor.
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Step 2
Protect all remaining surfaces with plastic sheeting. Lay drop cloths smoothly on the floor. Ensure there are no wrinkles in the drop cloths.
Step 3
Remove nails if you will not replace the pictures. Fill the nails with spackling compound; smooth a small amount of the compound Into the hole with a putty knife. Allow it to dry, and lightly sand to a smooth finish.
Primer and Paint
Step 1
Paint the walls with a water-based sealing primer such as Kilz. Apply the paint using a roller. Make long vertical strokes on the surface of the wall. Cover the entire wall, and it allow to dry four to six hours. Apply a second coat if the red paint is clearly visible and seeping through.
Step 2
Paint the edge of the wall's perimeter with an angled brush. Glide the brush evenly along the edge of the wall's surface to cover any areas the roller could not reach. Allow it to dry.
Step 3
Cover the rest of the wall with the latex paint using the roller, applying it just as you did the primer. Add a second coat if necessary. Let the paint dry before moving any furniture and décor back into position.
Tip
Tint the primer a light to medium gray if covering the red paint with a medium to dark color. No tinting is necessary if painting the walls a lighter color.
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