Consult resources to research the decorative painting techniques you will be utilizing

There are a number of step-by-step decorative painting books and tutorials on the Internet; the websites of decorative paint distributors and wholesalers are good resources for this. Also, television design shows feature experts and novices performing decorative painting and can provide valuable information on resources and techniques.

I recommend: Besides a wide range of decorative paints, Pittsburgh Paints offers a wealth of information on various painting techniques, projects, and decorative paint finish. Home Depot provides in-store tutorials and classes, DVDs, decorative painting books, and one-on-one consultation with their expert staff to help you tackle your decorative painting project and put together the resources you need.

Purchase your decorative paints and other equipment and start painting!

Once you've thoroughly researched the project, come up with estimates and a plan, and have learned the techniques, it is time to buy your paint from a decorative paints supplier and start working. Make sure you keep safety a top priority and enjoy creating an appealing commercial space or product you can be proud of always.

I recommend: Benjamin Moore allows you to download color palettes on your computer to allow you to easily incorporate color schemes into design plans and offers high quality and affordable decorative paints for your project. Lowe's offers a wide range of decorative paints (including decorative concrete paint), faux finishing, and other decorative painting supplies you will need.

If the job is too complicated or advanced, use a professional decorative painting service

Will the job require more skill and resources than you can provide? Be realistic about your time and ability. If you think you need a professional, contact a decorative painting business and ask for an estimate. They may end up being a solution to a thorny design problem and bring valuable experience and suggestions to your decorative painting project.

I recommend: Search the database of The International Directory of Faux Painters & Decorative Painters for expert decorative painters in your area. This directory--considered an excellent resource--is the largest in the United States. The Society of Decorative Painters also has a directory of decorative painters as well as a listing of teachers, wholesalers, retailers, and other resources.