Transform a high-traffic area, like an entranceway, by painting a runner. It's a creative, low-cost alternative to carpeting or refinishing your beat-up wood (or painted wood) floor.

Map out the runner with blue tape, such as Scotch Safe Release one-inch-wide blue masking tape (about $5 at hardware stores), to create a strip with a seven- to nine-inch border on each side. If the floorboards run lengthwise, use the seams as your guide.

If your floor has a polyurethane finish, sand the designated area and wipe away the residue with a damp microfiber cloth.

Apply two coats of acrylic-latex paint, such as Ace Royal Touch Satin from Ace Hardware ($22 for a gallon, www.acehardware.com for store locations), within the tape border. Let dry 24 to 48 hours.

Apply one to two coats of acrylic polyurethane, such as Varathane (about $20 a gallon at hardware stores), as a sealant. Let dry overnight.