Home In Progress

On Today's Episode

Dan and Hailey discuss the effects of screen time on mental and physical health, exampling its addictive nature. The conversation shifts to cleaning, with specific sections dedicated to using steam cleaners and cordless vacuums. From there, they talk about how you can determine if the paint in your garage or basement is still good as well as how you should store paint so it remains in good condition. Finally, they cover a few caulk questions from listeners.

00:00 Introduction and Show Overview

01:35 The Impact of Screen Time on Our Lives

04:36 Exploring the Dangers of Interactive Screen Time

06:53 The Influence of Technology on Our Daily Lives

15:35 The Power of a Steam Cleaner

22:23 The Joy of a Cordless Vacuum

24:50 The Pros and Cons of Cordless Vacuums

27:53 The Unexpected History of Carrots

29:47 The Strange Trend of Butter in Coffee

30:26 The Importance of Proper Paint Storage

30:57 The Dangers of Using Bad Paint

32:24 The Proper Way to Store and Use Paint

33:19 The Difference Between Caulk and Spackle

33:58 The Importance of Using the Right Caulk

35:18 The Proper Way to Store and Use Caulk

40:56 The Big Game Contest Announcement

On Today's Episode

Dan and Hailey discuss some practical tips so you can get professional results the next time you caulk.

Then, design expert, Andy Yates joins the show to discuss upcoming design trends for 2024, including a resurgence of a more organic, 70s-inspired aesthetic paired with the technology of smart homes. Finally, they break down how homeowners can approach their design projects and how to ensure their home reflects their personal style.

Getting Professional Results When Caulking [00:00 - 08:18]

Dan and Hailey review the importance of caulking during home improvement projects, highlighting four key reasons for caulking around houses. Then, they dig into some crucial tips that will help you get professional results when caulking even if you're new to the skill!

KEY POINTS

• 00:01 Introduction and Casual Conversation
• 00:27 Introduction to the Show and Upcoming Topics
• 00:36 Discussion on Weather and Pets
• 01:36 Introduction to Guest Speaker and Design Trends
• 02:20 Caulking Tips and Tricks
• 03:41 How to Get Great Results with Caulking
• 06:10 Practical Tips for Caulking
• 08:04 Closing Remarks and Teaser for Next Segment

Design Trends for 2024 with Andy Yates [18:58 - 32:34]

Dan and Hailey are joined by Andy Yates from Andy Yates Design. They discuss the upcoming trends in design for 2024, including a resurgence of 1970s decor and a blending of different eras. Andy shares his insights into the future of interior design, emphasizing textures and a move towards softer, more muted colors.

Additionally, they discuss the increasing integration of smart technology into homes and how homeowners should use research to figure out which design elements best fit their personal aesthetic. Importantly, they underscore the need for a home's interior to reflect the owner's personal style and taste exactly. They wrap up by discussing how to bring together all elements of design in a coherent way that works for the homeowner.

• 08:20 Introduction and Welcoming Guest
• 08:45 Discussing Design Predictions for 2024
• 09:41 Exploring Trends in Finishes and Materials
• 10:42 The Influence of Texture in Design
• 11:57 The Resurgence of 70s and 80s Design Aesthetics
• 12:27 The Impact of Younger Consumers on Design Trends
• 19:39 The Role of Technology in Modern Home Design
• 30:01 Practical Tips for Homeowners Starting a Design Project
• 38:49 Conclusion and Contact Information

EPISODE 341 SHOW SUMMARY

January 13, 2024

SEGMENT 1: Festool Comes to RepcoLite

In this segment, Dan and Hailey share the news that RepcoLite will become a Festool dealer. They highlight Festool's innovative and well-engineered tools, specifically their sanding equipment which is well-known for its ability to leave the work environment dust-free. Additionally, they mention the history of Festool from 1925 till date.

KEY POINTS:

• Introduction to the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show
• Big News for RepcoLite: Introduction to Festool
• Deep Dive into Festool's History and Offerings
• Festool's Major Advancements in Circular Saws and Sanders
• Conclusion and Teaser for the Next Segment

SEGMENT 2: The Science and Psychology of Color in Home Design with Cheryl Adams

In this segment, Dan and Hailey interview Certified Design and Color Specialist Cheryl Adams. She discusses the importance of understanding the science of color and how it affects people's perceptions and feelings.

Cheryl emphasizes the need to consider paint colors alongside other materials when planning home improvements. The show also announces a free presentation by Cheryl for those interested in learning more about choosing the right colors and materials. The presentation will be held on January 20th at the Birmingham RepcoLite store. Towards the end, Cheryl details how to contact her for personal consultations.

CHERYL'S CONTACT INFO:

• [email protected]
• 248-509-4720

JANUARY 20 "COLOR CONFIDENTLY" SEMINAR INFO:

• Saturday, January 20
• 11 AM to 2 PM
• RepcoLite Location in Birmingham
• To reserve a spot, call: 248-646-5924

KEY POINTS:

• Introduction
• Understanding the Role of a Color Specialist
• The Importance of Color in Different Settings
• Announcement of Upcoming Presentation
• Key Points of the Presentation
• The Impact of Lighting on Color
• Choosing the Right Paint Colors and Materials
• How to Contact Cheryl for a Consultation
• Details of the Presentation
• Closing Remarks and Teaser for the Next Segment

SEGMENT 3: Home Improvement Goals and Strategies for 2024

Dan and Hailey discuss their home improvement plans for 2024 and offer tips on how to tackle ambitious projects. They underscore the importance of breaking these projects down into manageable steps, starting with identifying what has previously hindered progress.

Hailey plans to take on painting the exterior of her house herself and plans to tackle it in smaller steps: one side at a time. It's all about taking small, achievable steps toward big goals.

For Dan, the project is painting a space in his home. Seems straightforward, but he's wanted to do it for years but hasn't. For him, the path to success is first in identifying why he hasn't already done it. Turns out there's a reason beyond the obvious one of which he was aware!

KEY POINTS:

• Introduction and Overview of Upcoming Projects
• Haley's Home Improvement Goals for 2024
• Breaking Down Big Projects into Manageable Tasks
• The Power of Small Steps in Achieving Big Goals
• Discussing Other Home Improvement Projects
• Overcoming Obstacles in Home Improvement Projects
• The Importance of Getting Help and Making a Plan
• Conclusion and Teaser for the Next Segment

SEGMENT 4: The Importance and Benefits of Caulking

In this segment, Dan and Hailey discuss the importance of caulking in both professional painting and DIY projects. They explain that caulking doesn't just enhance aesthetic appeal, but also offers numerous practical benefits such as reducing energy waste, protecting against water damage, keeping homes free of bugs, and giving a paint job a professional look.

They also mention a product called 'Accelerator' from Tower Sealants. Accelerator is perfect for Professionals and DIYers alike because, among other things, it can be painted over immediately without any cracking. Also, the absence of air pockets in the tube makes application much easier.

KEY POINTS:

• Introduction to the Topic of Caulking
• The Importance of Caulking in Energy Conservation
• Caulking as a Defense Against Insects and Dirt
•  Caulking as a Protection Against Water Damage
• The Aesthetic Benefits of Caulking
• Introducing the Accelerator Caulk Product

On Today's Episode

This episode is all about Dave Altena, the second-generation president of RepcoLite Paints, who recently passed away. Dave's son, Dan, the current president of the company, interviewed with his dad three weeks before he passed away.

The interview provides insights into the origins of the family-owned and operated business, their journey of navigating the industry, their ambition to be the best, the success of their products, and the long-standing tradition of old-fashioned service.

The episode emphasizes the value and role of direct interaction with their customers in their longevity and success despite the increased digitalization and other changes in the retail industry.

KEY MOMENTS

00:01 Introduction and New Year Wishes

01:57 Remembering Dave Altena

03:00 Interview with Dave Altena: The Early Days of Repcolite

06:33 The Evolution of Repcolite and the Paint Industry

14:49 Memories of Working at Repcolite

16:47 Reflections on Company Longevity and Employee Dedication

17:47 The Challenges and Rewards of Retirement

18:21 The Importance of Embracing Change in Business

28:54 The Origin and Evolution of the Company's Name

35:31 The Legacy and Impact of the Company's Products

38:21 Final Thoughts and Appreciation

On Today's EpisodeOrganizing For the New Year [00:00 - 18:59]

It's a New Year (almost). So it's time to get organized....

Hailey's New Steamer [18:58 - 32:16]

Hailey recently purchased a new steamer and she's amazed at all the cleaning power this thing has.

• Dupray Steam Cleaner

Removing Wallpaper [32:16 - 39:21]

It doesn't have to be the horrible job we always assume it will be!

On Today's EpisodeThe History of Snowmen [00:00 - 12:20]

Snowmen go back WAY FARTHER than you may think!

Christmas Traditions from Around the World [12:20 - 30:15]

These traditions from around the world are absolutely hilarious!

The Christmas Orange and Last Contest Question [30:15 - 38:59]

We look at the history of the Christmas orange and then give out the last question for our Christmas contest!

On Today's EpisodeHow to Get the Perfect Paint Match [00:00 - 09:41]

RepcoLite specializes in matching paints and stains (and more!) but not everyone is aware of that. So we're letting you know because color matches can be life-savers! Maybe you need to repair some damage on a wall, or maybe you need to replace a piece of trim. A color match can make those repairs flawless. But to get the best results, there are some things you can do to help!

THE TARGET MATTERS!

If you're matching paint on your wall or trim, bring us a sample of the actual paint on the surface. So, bring in a piece of the trim if you can. If the color you need matched is on the wall, cut out a piece of the face paper from the drywall. Be careful--you'll need to patch it later--but grab one from an area that's been exposed to the light. Don't grab one from a closet because it might not match. Just try to find one from an out of the way spot to make your patch easier!

If you're matching wallpaper, wait until you've got your actual wallpaper in hand! Don't match from a book or from a sample.

If you're matching to an old gallon of paint, don't bring us just a cutting from the label or the paint formula. Instead, bring the whole can with you! If there's wet paint in there, we can make any number of samples!

Finally, bring as much as you can--don't be embarrassed. Bring your comforters, your pillows, your couch cushions!

LET 'EM COOK

My kids use that phrase to let me know that I need to be patient--I need to let them have time to plan, to think, to work. Same is true with color matches! Sometimes we can crank them out quickly. Other times, it takes some time to dial it in. So, drop off your match and then run some errands! In a couple hours, we should have it ready for you!

CALL AHEAD WITH QUESTIONS

Last bit of advice: call ahead and tell us what you're working on. We'll tell you what you should bring us for the best results!

Timeless Design: Morris & Co. Wallpaper [09:41 - 18:59]

Wallpaper is something we talk about a lot. And in the recent past, we've talked about contemporary designs. We've wanted to focus on how wallpaper is current and trendy and definitely something to check out. But we haven't focused on another superpower of wallpaper: to connect us with history and tradition!

Morris and Co. Wallpaper draws its inspiration from designs from over 100 years ago. And it's still available for purchase today. In this segment, we talk about William Morris, the founder.

Also, as we mentioned, RepcoLite is one of only 2 places in Michigan where you can order Morris & Co. wallpaper! We've got their books in our Fulton Street store in Grand Rapids, and our Lakewood Blvd. location in Holland.

The 2024 Last Minute Gift Guide [18:59 - 39:21]

The RepcoLite Home Improvement Show Gift Guide is an annual classic. This year, here's our list of gifts to consider:

BOY and GOING SOLO by Roald Dahl

Children's author, Roald Dahl, wrote his autobiography in two different volumes: Boy, and Going Solo. These books are not your average, boring, dry, autobiography. They are short stories of events from Dahl's childhood (Boy) and his time in the RAF in the war (Going Solo). The stories are beautiful, funny, sad, and profound. They are amazing books and can be shared with anybody--you don't need to be a Roald Dahl fan to enjoy them! Find both of them in one volume, right here.

TREERUNNER ADVENTURE PARK

Looking for some fun on a zip line? Want to run an obstacle course as a team-building exercise or maybe just to establish dominance in the office? Either way, TreeRunner Adventure Park is located right in Grand Rapids and is something you should check out!

AUDIBLE

I make this recommendation every year . . . but that's because it's so good! It's my favorite subscription and I don't want to live (or work around the house) without it! Best of all, it's easy to give as a gift. Learn more here.

APPLE AIR TAGS

Are you losing things on a regular basis? Maybe the car keys? Maybe your wallet? Apple Air Tags price out at $29 to start and they will allow you to track misplaced items using your phone! Check them out here.

MYSTERIOUS PACKAGE from the MYSTERIOUS PACKAGE COMPANY

You've got to see these to believe them . . . . But I bought one of these immersive crate experiences and my family spent about 8 hours deeply involved in a believable, engaging mystery. We pored over maps, letters, newspaper clippings and other amazing items, trying to crack codes and solve a mystery. It's not inexpensive . . . but my kids are still talking about it 2 years later. It's well worth the money! Visit the website here.

On Today's Episode

• There is a common paint problem that happens in high moisture areas… a slimy orange substance oozes from the wall! We will explain what is happening and how you avoid this problem in your bathroom. 
• Historic ceilings were often decorated with ceiling medallions but why did this trend start? Turns out there is a lot of debate around the subject! We will dig into the surprising history and propose a theory of our own!
• Every story needs an ending…but how does this apply to design? We will finish our ceiling conversation AND tell you everything you need to know to get entered into our Christmas Giveaway!

What Bathroom Paint to Use [00:00 - 12:37]

Surfactant Leaching is a common problem in high moisture areas. Surfactants are necessary ingredients in paint and usually they just work their way out over time with no issues. However, when a newly painted wall is exposed to high humidity, surfactants can rise prematurely. They show up on your painted surface looking like orange, brown or even silvery areas that seem soapy or oily in nature. Not pretty . . . but it's not damaging your paint!  

HOW TO FIX SURFACTANT LEACHING

• Start by wiping them off with a soft sponge and mild soapy water. It may take a few times but it will eventually disappear. 
• Running the bathroom fan or installing a bathroom fan is crucial. Leave it running for about 10-20 minutes after the shower to remove all the moisture. 
• Opening doors to the bathroom can also help. 
• Don't Have a Fan? Get one! And get the right size for your space. Fans are rated by cubic feet per minute (CFM's). This tells you how much air they can move per minute.
• get a fan that moves 1 CFM per square foot.
• So, an 80 SF bathroom . . . you'll need a fan with an 80 CFM rating to be effective

AVOID THE PROBLEM IN THE FIRST PLACE 

Use the RIGHT Paint.

Aura Bath and Spa from Benjamin Moore is an ideal bathroom paint. It is made for high moisture areas and is available in a matte finish! It keeps steam from gathering on the walls and almost always resists surfactant leaching. It’s been a silver bullet! …usually…

Hailey had a month of being sick recently and the only relief she could find was running the shower and stemming up the bathroom multiple times a day. Basically turned her bathroom into a sauna (we do not recommend this).  On top of that her bathroom fan is BROKEN. So there was no way to quickly remove the moisture. 

VERY EXTREME situation. Walls are painted with Aura Bath and spa and for weeks there were no issues. However, every product has its limitations and eventually surfactant leaching did occur. 

Moral of the story, use the right paint in the right environment! Ventilation is always needed!

Historic Ceiling Design [12:37 - 31:30]

Ceiling medallions have a long history of creating a sophisticated ceiling design.  Very popular in homes during the Victorian Times. They look like carved plaster disks that are affixed to the center of the ceiling typically were a chandelier is hanging. Now we use them almost exclusively for decorative purposes…But was that always the case? Many Historians have practical theories as to why they existed… 

THEORY 1: THE "HIDE THE SOOT" THEORY

• With candles being used to light homes and and then eventually . . . gas lighting. The constant open flames caused soot to collect on the ceiling above the chandelier. SO, according to proponents of THEORY #1: To hide this unsightly soot. Medallions were installed, however, many people have pointed out that soot will still show on the medallion and now it is harder to clean off. 

THEORY 2: THE "DISGUISE THE SOOT" THEORY

• Another group of people really like the soot angle but they see the limitation we just talked about. So they've proposed the following: The soot will continue to collect up there . . .BUT, it actually just hides in the grooves of the carving providing more depth and contrast…making the medallion even more beautiful.

THEORY 3: THE "FLAME RESISTANCE" THEORY

• Theory 3 is an interesting idea: The circular, plaster design provided an extra layer of fire resistance directly above the light. However, while many medallions in the Victorian era were made of plaster or cast iron, they were also very commonly made of paper mache . . . .

THEORY 4: THE "HIDE MY MISTAKES" THEORY

• Another great explanation! Comes from a very practical, very relatable experience for most of us: We go to replace a light fixture and find out the hole in the ceiling is larger than the current fixture will cover up… instead of patching the drywall we could just cover it up with a ceiling medallion! 

THEORY 5: THE "MAYBE THEY JUST LOOKED GOOD AND THAT'S IT" THEORY

• All of those others explanations are looking for a practical reason. But maybe there wasn't one for the Victorians...Maybe they just looked good!

SOME HISTORY

Decorative elements on ceilings go all the way back to ancient cultures like the Egyptians, the Greeks, and the Romans. They all made use of the medallions decoratively. They were installed in palaces, temples and public buildings and they were there to add beauty and tell a story. They included religious narratives, classic mythology and added a sense of grandeur to the architecture. 

The Victorian era was a significant milestone in the history of ceiling medallions because of advancements in technology ceiling medallions became more accessible and affordable. But some of the popularity can also be attributed  to the Victorian fascination with embellishment and ornamentation

To the Victorians good design meant:

• No surface is left out! 
• Everything is connected
• Two surfaces meeting was seen as a relationship forming
• and that meant extra attention was needed!

Thus they made use of things like corner braces, corner molding, and corner fans. All with the intent of softening a hard transition. Here's a quote:

• "Victorians imposed order on their interiors, seeing them as a complete story with a beginning (floor), middle (walls), and ending (ceiling). They were boxes with a bottom, sides, and top, all united by colors and patterns."

So in the end the purpose of ceiling medallions comes back to the idea of creating a story with interior design! 

Now the question becomes how can we apply this concept in our own homes today?

Don't Forget Your Ceiling AND our Christmas Contest Hint [31:30 - 39:23]

If the ceiling is the end of a story then many of us are looking at a room where the writer just decided to stop writing! A white ceiling leaves the end completely open with no resolution. 

With that in mind… What can we do in our homes to write that great ending for our space?

• Painting the ceiling a color other than white is always an option and creates a lot of impact!
• Benjamin Moore's Premium Waterborne Ceiling Paint is unique in that it can be tinted to any color and remains a flat ceiling finish. 
• Adding a paint sheen such as gloss is another way to add impact but be warned this project is not DIY friendly… 
• Wallpaper can say so much and bring all the elements in a room together! 
• Stenciling is another great option for adding patterns if wallpaper is not possible! 
• Embossed ceiling tiles are easy to install now and come in inexpensive plastic options. 
• Medallions of course are a simple cherry on top! So many affordable and easy to install options exist. 

Ceiling Height Poses Some Limitations. For a balanced space a good rule of thumb exists… the higher the ceiling the more ornamentation a ceiling can handle. 

CHRISTMAS CONTEST!

Time for the next Christmas Contest Question

And to recap the contest, here's the deal: 

• One winner will get a $500 Gift Card to RepcoLite
• AND give a $500 Gift Card to a friend
• AND pick a charity and RepcoLite will donate $500 in the winner's name

To enter the contest:

• go to repcolite.com
• click the banner on the home page
• Rules are there along with an entry form
• All you need to do is answer the questions on the entry form
• Every right answer is an entry into the contest
• and we'll draw the winner on December 26

BUT, there's a bit of a trick: 

• The questions are kind of difficult this year
• And the only way you'll know them is to figure out the clue
• Every week, we have a clue on the web page with the rules 
• But it's not a dead giveaway.
• However here on the show . . . we're giving away a much better version of the clue

This week, the question is this: "What is Hailey's Favorite Type of Christmas Cookie?"

Make sure you're tuning in next week for more AND Invite your friends to listen. The more people you bring to the contest . . . the more chance one of them picks you to be the winner of their Bonus Gift Card if they win!

On Today's Episode

• Hailey's back after a month-long absence
• No ventilation in the kitchen? What about a Ductless Range Hood?
• Battery Powered Lighting
• Christmas Contest 2024

Hailey's Back! [00:00 - 04:03]

It's been a month, but Hailey's finally back!

Ductless Range Hoods [04:03 - 19:00]

Hailey's kitchen doesn't have a range hood. And the location of the windows in the room doesn't make ventilating the space easy. She's looked into having a conventional range hood installed, but the expense of running ductwork is a deal-breaker at this point (she just put a new roof on the house, after all!)

Digging into the problem, she ran across Ductless Range Hoods. These hoods look like conventional range hoods, but rather than moving air out of the home, they filter the air using a charcoal filter system.

Admittedly, they're not as effective as a conventional range hood, but at $200 - $600, they're also a lot less expensive!

If you're in a situation like Hailey is, maybe a Ductless Range Hood is your answer. Here are 4 things to consider before making that purchase:

Size

• It should be as wide as your stovetop with a small overhang on either side
• Most models come in 24", 30", or 36"
• If you're installing on an open wall, make sure the chimney will reach your ceiling. If not, you will need to purchase an extension kit

Speed

• Look for a model with a variable-speed fan
• Low speeds provide quiet operation for smaller tasks
• High speeds are necessary when you do serious cooking, sauteing, or frying

Material

• Most models come in stainless steel, white, and black
• If you need to match your cabinets exactly, the outside of your hood most likely could be painted. Prep and the right product are key, so stop out at a RepcoLite store and let us help!

Convertible Options?

• There are also conventional range hoods that can be converted into ductless options
• They require an add-on kit that includes the filter system.

Battery-Powered Lighting [19:00 - 33:36]

Are you looking to add some lighting to your home but don't want to get into the expense of hiring an electrician? There are battery-powered lighting options out there that could be the perfect solution!

These battery-powered lighting options have improved dramatically in the last few years. You can buy light fixtures that look just like their wired counterparts, but use simple, rechargeable puck lights or light bulbs.

Many come with remote controls (and who doesn't want MORE remote controls in their home?) and they provide you with a very simple installation and professional finished results.

While these lights aren't for every situation, we think they're perfect for:

Under Cabinet Lighting

For right around $25 you can buy 2 rechargeable, LED strip lights that mount in 3 minutes under your cabinets.

• Under Cabinet LEDs

Wall Sconces

Battery-powered wall sconces look great and they're easy to install. Check out these examples:

• Aipsun Battery Operated Wall Sconces for $99

Also, in this part of the segment, Dan talked about some rechargeable puck lights that would work in ANY of these wall sconces (and pretty much anywhere else). Here they are:

• Laboreducer Puck Lights

Closet Lights

My closets are poorly lit. And while wired lighting is ideal, installing battery-powered fixtures is a quick and easy way to solve the problem--at least temporarily-- almost immediately!

Lighting For Art

Do you have artwork on the walls that you would like to highlight? Check out the lighting options below to get an idea of what's available?

• Raifooly 16" Picture Light
• Luxsway Battery-Powered Picture Light

Rechargeable Emergency Light Bulbs

Probably our favorite battery-powered option when it comes to lighting are these bulbs from JackonLux!

• $22 for 2
• Generally the same size as regular LED Bulbs (though it pays to double-check!)
• Available in 5000K and 3000K temperatures
• They recharge as you use them in your wired light fixtures
• When the power goes out, they will come on and provide light for up to 6 hours!
• AND, they can be taken out of the light fixture and carried around like a flashlight or a lantern
• Check them out here!

Our 2024 Christmas Contest! [33:36 - 39:06]

It's that time again! We're launching the giveaway for Christmas 2024 and we're calling it our "Win, Give, and Give" giveaway! And that's because the prize is a $500 RepcoLite Gift Certificate, PLUS a $500 Gift Certificate you can give to a friend. On top of that, RepcoLite will make an additional $500 donation to a charity of the winner's choice! It's definitely a "Win, Give, and Give" kind of prize.

Click here to go to the entry form and to read the full contest rules!

On Today's Episode

Hailey is still out sick! Hopefully, she'll be back next week. Fortunately, Dan Altena, president of RepcoLite, was able to fill in. Here's what we'll cover in this episode:

• Using AI for Decorating?
• 3 Quick Projects for a Realistic Holiday Makeover
• How to Get Sharp Lines and Professional Results with Masking Tape

Using AI for Decorating? [00:00 - 12:05]

We see AI being talked about all the time. It's being used in almost every field. So, what about Interior Design? And even more importantly, what about DIY Interior Design? Can ANYONE open up an AI design platform and get immediate and amazing results?

• I Tried 12 AI Interior Design Tools (video Dan referenced)

3 Quick Projects for a Realistic Holiday Makeover [12:05 - 18:54]

It's officially the Holiday Season, and that means you'll probably see companies like RepcoLite talking about how it's time to repaint your spaces for the guests who will be visiting. We know that's unrealistic--after all, we've got lives, too. The Holidays are already busy enough! However, if you are looking for a project--something small that will make a huge impact--we've got three to consider!

• Check out the Fireplace Makeover Episode

How to Get Sharp Lines and Professional Results with Masking Tape [18:54 - 38:55]

We all (probably) know what it feels like to spend time applying masking tape on a project only to remove it and see that paint has still managed to bleed through. Or, we pull the tape off and some of our previous paint (and/or the new paint) comes off with it! It's incredibly frustrating when that happens. But the good news is there are steps you can take to avoid both of those problems and get great results every time.