First Time - UPDATED

Although I’ve painted rooms with stripes, I never looked forward to doing another. It usually takes a long time to measure, make sure everything is lined up, plum, and straight. I was watching one of the DIY network shows and the host used a tool that I thought – man, this would really save some time. It’s called, U-Stripe It (http://www.ustripeit.com/).

Sure enough, it works better then expected.

With the end of the school year, I have several weeks left to get some things done before I take my break. One of the projects on the list was to fix-up the Student Lounge. I decided to paint a zig-zag pattern using tone on tone stripes. Hey, if I’m going to do something, better go all the way – right? The web site has a plethora of instructional videos showing you exactly how to paint almost anything you can dream of using this tool.

This project took me no time whatsoever.

Of course I began with a flat enamel latex and started my pattern at the top-right wall. Using the same technique that is demonstrated in the videos, it took almost no time. Actually, it would have been done in under an hour had I not had to work around raceways, pipes, and wall reliefs.

All in all – this is my favorite painting tool (besides my sprayer). It allows one person to stripe a wall in a matter of minutes. Everything is clearly marked with size measurements, allowing for adjustment of the stripe size. The two levels help you make sure everything is plumb and square. If you want to add another dimension to your painting portfolio, you need to pick up one of these tools.

I’m currently working on building a counter for students to use their laptops. Pictures to follow.

It was finished before school began, but finally got around to taking this final shot today. It’s done (for now).

-- No matter how many times I measure, I always forget the dimensions before I cut.