Paint Color and Decorating Tips for the Holidays Some quick changes with paint makes your customers' homes sparkle.

White paint sets off the deep red like a frame enhances a painting. Bright color combinations can be found in gift wrap and translated to walls. Don't forget that the ceiling is the fifth "wall" of any room, and it's usually a blank canvas waiting for color and personality. A glaze creates the look of depth and age on the walls. Spring House, Pa./October 5, 2006/—Crisp nights and shorter days are signals of the approaching holiday season. Debbie Zimmer, of the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute, offers painting contractors and homeowners suggestions on how to create a festive atmosphere for the holidays—and all year 'round—to every room. Add a glossy frame. Artwork is always improved with the addition of a beautiful frame, and your wall space is no different. Update a room by adding color and shine to trim work and doors— the "frame" around the room. Highlight these areas with semi-gloss or gloss paint in a complementary hue to the wall color. Glossy finishes add sparkle and interest and assist in differentiating one space from another. They also provide the added benefit of durability and long-lasting wear, especially in busy family gathering spaces. Take a color cue from holiday gift bags. Incorporating several colors into a space is often a stumbling block for many do-it-yourselfers. By simply perusing the gift bag aisle, you’ll find exciting and unusual combinations that are often easily transferable to your space. This tip works especially well when contemplating hues for tweens and teens. Look up and celebrate the ceilings. Let the ceilings sparkle. Add shine and sophistication to dining spaces by painting these often bland areas with a high sheen product. If you are not quite ready to change your entire ceiling, add a stencil pattern in a glossy hue for a touch of high style. Texture, texture, texture. Take a cue from this season’s fashion runway and integrate texture into a space for added interest and appeal. "When working with a monochromatic or single color scheme, wall texture will provide depth and warmth", states Zimmer. The addition of bead board, paintable wall coverings or glazing over an already painted surface will provide subtle interest and a three-dimensional appearance. Editor’s Note: For regular painting tips and color trend information, sign up for the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute do-it-yourself newsletter by simply logging on to www.paintquality.com.