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Paint a Built-In Bookcase
By simply painting the back wall of a built-in bookcase, you can instantly add more depth, dimension and interest to any room in your home. With just a couple of coats of paint, a boring storage space can be transformed into a stunning backdrop that showcases your books, pictures and collectibles.
Visit your local local True Value hardware store for the expert advice and products you need and follow the simple steps below to complete this home improvement project.
Step 1. Prepare the Area
Remove all items on the bookcase, as well as shelves, if possible. Remove switch plates and outlet covers if the bookcase has lighted sections.
Step 2. Clean Area
Primer and paint do not adhere to dirt, so make sure you properly clean the surfaces before you start. Dust the area to be painted, then wipe with a damp sponge or cloth and allow it to dry.
Step 3. Tape
Use painter's tape to protect the sides, top and bottom of adjacent shelving. If your bookcase shelves are not removable, mask the edges with painter's tape.
Helpful Tip:
- Use wide painter's tape to cover areas not to be painted and mask carefully to protect from paint splatters.
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Step 4. Prime
You don't have to apply a coat of primer before you paint your bookcase, but doing so will make the paint adhere and wear better. Additionally, priming is advisable if the back wall is stained or you wish to paint a light color over a dark color. Apply True Value EasyCare® latex primer with a brush or roller, moving from right to left, then left to right, spreading the paint evenly with horizontal strokes.
Safety Alert!
- Open windows where you'll be priming and painting to maintain a well-ventilated area.
Step 5. Apply Paint
Use True Value EasyCare® eggshell or semi-gloss latex paint for the wall. First, paint along the outline of the area carefully. Apply the paint with a brush or roller, moving from right to left, then left to right, spreading evenly with horizontal strokes. Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely. If using a bolder, solid color, apply a second coat of paint.
Helpful Tip:
- Visit truevaluepaint.com for color selection ideas and tips.
- If wall coverings, ceiling and flooring all share a similar color scheme, go bold and choose a dramatic eye-popping color to really highlight the area. Choose paint with a slight gloss to create a vibrant appearance.
Step 6. Clean Up
While you are letting the back wall dry completely, rinse your roller covers and brushes in water until the water runs clear. Store them in plastic bags or hang on nails or hooks to dry. Pull off the painter's tape carefully at a 45-degree angle to avoid removing any fresh paint. Pour any leftover paint into a mixing bucket and store safely.
Congratulations! You've created a standout backdrop for your bookcase. Visit your local True Value hardware store for more painting techniques and to find out other ways to enhance your home
For more projects, go to TrueValuePaint.com. >
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