a guide to paint finishes - your new best friend (in decorating)

It's shocking to me how often I'm asked by friends -- and even random strangers encountered in paint stores -- about paint projects. There must be some special sign on my back that I'm not aware of... I don't mind though -- working with paint is easily one of my favorite aspects of decorating. Ever seen a before and after of a room that simply got a new coat of paint? It's incredible what a difference a can or two of color can do to transform a space.

Of all the questions, though, that I encounter regarding paint, perhaps the most commonly baffling one for people is that of paint finishes. Some assume it's just a manner of preference, while some had no idea where was even an option beyond "wet." To assist homeowners with the confusion I recently wrote a guide to paint finishes for About.com. Have a look -- and have all your confusions answered! In the meantime, enjoy these paint inspirations that I'm currently loving...

Want more fantastic reading material? Take a look at any of these articles: 
Fun and Easy DIY Paint Project Ideas
How To: DIY Painted Floors
Paint Color Trends for 2013
DIY Wallpaper Scrap Ideas

well hello there sexy (look down!)

As part of my monthly About.com duties, I recently wrote a piece aimed to inspire readers to fancify old, boring or damaged floors with some paint ideas. And now I'm obsessed with the idea. I'm currently on an apartment hunt for a shiny new-old apartment of my own (which, in Manhattan, is not an easy feat). Thanks to this current obsession, I'm hoping for a place with terribly ill wood floors in need of some Allie lovin' (fingers crossed). Here are some beauties that are currently at the top of my under-foot wish list.