Painting is often times the best and most cost effective way to revamp a room. Is it time for you to  freshen up your walls with a new coat of paint? Here are a few ideas to help you paint like a pro.

Pick your best technique.
Short on time? Try a roller: Pros find it takes about a third of the time of brushing. The downside? You’ll need a third more paint!

Do a patch test.
Color changes with the light – so invest in sample size jars and brush a bit onto every wall in the room; in a few days, you’ll know which color to buy.

Mix up perfection.
Color coming on too strong? Take the test of the can back to the store and have them mix in “decorator’s white.” This neutral tint will lighten your color without changing the hue!

Dress for Success.
Tie a string around your waist and tuck in several barely damp rags – like chefs towels. You’ll always have a wipe-up handy!

Ditch daily cleanup.
At the end of the day, wrap unwashed brushes and rollers in plastic wrap, then bag and freeze for up to three days. Let them thaw before unwrapping and resuming your paint job.