I must have collected 40 (maybe more) or so paint samples in search for the right color. I ended up just falling in love with a soft pink color from Martha Stewart called Gloaming (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Glidden-DUO-8-oz-MSL170-Martha-Stewart-Living-Gloaming-Interior-Paint-Sample-GLD-MSL170/203448273). It was the perfect color, very soft and not too pink. Even my husband liked it (which says a lot). After painting the walls, I wasn't sure what direction I should go in next for her room. I knew I need a something large. I thought a tree would be perfect. I mean what's a forest without trees.
Now I had to decide whether to build one or paint it. I knew my husband wasn't going to like having a messy paper mache tree built in the basement. As much as I wanted the challenge, and I really did, I knew it wasn't going to happen. How would I even get it up the stairs. Would it ruin her carpet? So the next best thing was paint. But I didn't want a cartoony one. Some thing very pretty, simple and elegant.
First I drew out a rough sample on paper as a guide. Then I drew two trees free-hand on the wall in chalk. That way it would be easy to remove later unlike pencil. Plus it's very easy to erase anything you are unhappy with. Once I was pleased with the layout, I painted it in a white semi gloss. I paint it without painters tape because I wanted a softer more natural line. Plus I could change it if I preferred. After the first coat completely dried, I took a damp cloth and wiped away the chalk. That way I could see if it needed any touch ups. I only did 2 coats because I wanted to see the brush strokes to give it some texture so it wouldn't look like a big sticker. I painted from side to side rather than up and down to make it more natural and give it a rounded appearance. I'm very happy with the results. And as much as I wanted to build a tree, I'm glad I went with the paint. Its beautiful without over taking the room.
