One of the cheapest ways to change the look of an entire room is to repaint it. You can make an amazing impact by switching paint colors, for very little money.


First, calculate how much paint you are going to need. Measure the length and height of every wall to determine its square feet of surface area.

You need about 1 gallon of paint for every 350 square feet. Remember that you don't have to paint windows and doors! :) Be sure to subtract those out of the total square feet you need to paint.

Now you have to get the paint. The key here is to make sure you use GOOD paint. Watch your local hardware stores and chains for sales. Pretty much everybody has a paint sale - especially when a season comes out with "new colors" and they are trying to get rid of the old colors. It is much, much better to get a good paint on sale rather to buy a really cheap paint. Cheap paints will flake off in a short period of time, not go on smoothly, and the color will fade in a matter of months.

Get your friends to come over for a painting party. Have them bring along old sheets and brushes. Most people have an old sheet in the house for projects, and a brush or two. By gathering people together, you'll have enough to do the room without having to buy them yourself.

Have fun! Use glow in the dark paint in a kid's room to add stars and planets to the wall. You can download stencils from the web for a decorative touch for the kitchen or living room. Try sponging for a soft effect in the bathroom or bedroom. If you have a friend who is an artist, consider adding a mural! You can have the side of your room appear to look out over a garden, a sea scape, or anything else you can imagine.

Since the only real cost is the paint, you could literally redo your entire house every time your budget allows a new paint purchase!