Let's Paint a Fireplace...

In the midst of all the snow and polar vortex temps...I am just ready for spring and all I can think about is what I can paint and change and upgrade and makeover!  So, I realized I never shared our fireplace before-mid-and-after transformation, in case you are feeling the same.
Our fireplace has taken on a couple transformations over the last five years, partly because we moved in with a 1 1/2 year old (who is now 7), a little bit because we continue to change how we use the space, and even more so a result of our backyard oasis of trees that prevent light from entering the space. I promise it's because of all those things, but, if you ask my hubs, he would tell you it's because I like to stress him out by constantly changing things. I'd be lying if I told you that didn't make me laugh...probably more than it should. 

I think, in all honesty, this change may have been a bit more daunting for the simple fact that if I royally botched it, installing a new fireplace would have been neither in the budget nor anything either of us wanted to undertake while living here with 3 kiddos. But technically it transformed in stages, the first time, using more greys to lighten it and the second, using whites, creams, and light greys to brighten it to the shade it is today. 

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Here is where we started...

And here is how it looked after I lightened it the first time...

If you are thinking about doing the same, it really is a super easy, budget friendly, and fast project...cue instant gratification vibes. There are a couple of things to keep in mind and here comes the public service announcement...make sure you know what you are working with...painting tile is different than painting brick, which is different than painting stone, which is different that marble and so on and so on. Considering how hot your fireplace gets, how you use it and the material will determine whether or not this is a good idea...I am not an expert, so checking with a local mason is a great idea. Depending on the paint you use, you may or may not be able to change it again at a later date.  This applies to those of you that are interested in channeling german smear looks...Bob Vila has a great reference for you...

Bob Villa...German Smear

So if this has you convinced that you want to embark on the same refresh, take a look at the process and scroll down for some helpful tips...

If you have similar stone to ours and plan to tackle this, here are a few pointers...
Dry brushing is best; it allows you to control the paint, create natural looking stone variances, and add color slowing allowing you to adjust the shade as you go and change it slightly from stone to stone. 
Using an oval brush or brush that expands or splays at the end is easier to use...and using it by stippling the paint on gives you a better finish.  Keep in mind that you will likely just toss this brush after you are done, I used one of my fave oval brushes that had seen better days. 
Any palette-type piece will work to hold your plate...I got extra fancy and used a couple of paper plates stacked together. 
Move around as you go, revisit areas and readjust the color.  Layering colors and hand-mixing varying shades as you continue will give you a more natural look.  Wishing you all the beautiful fireplace makeovers that take you a little less time and give you instant gratification!
Stay...In The Moment,