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.
