Joint compound is a versatile substance that is easy to work with. It is also known as drywall mud and is a virtually fail-safe method to hide imperfections existing on walls. It is not just a home improvement task but an art form.

What makes it popular is that if you apply too much of it or position it incorrectly, you can simply wipe it off and begin again, making it one of the most forgiving substances to work with.

Before you take the plunge and start working with joint compound, make sure you clean and totally dry off the walls. Water down the compound to your wall with a wide compound knife and dab a sponge onto the compound. It should have the consistency of pancake batter. Press the sponge against the wall repeatedly to create the desired texture. Dab on additional compound if needed and allow the paint to dry.

You can try a different method to use joint compound to texture walls by using a notched trowel. Make a line pattern across the breadth of the wall surface using this tool. Work in one direction first, and then go in the perpendicular direction, spreading the mud in such a way that it forms a crosshatched pattern. This pattern resembles woven fabrics when seen closely.

The other tools that may be used to apply joint compound include old rags, tissue paper and specially designed deep-nap rollers. Apart from this, you can also try texturing walls by rolling on the compound using a standard paint roller. No matter what, let the compound dry thoroughly before you proceed to paint. Drying may require as long as a whole day, depending on the local humidity. If you wish to speed up the entire process, you can aim a fan towards the wall surface.

We hope you now learnt the tricks of putting textures on your wall with the finish of your choice using joint compound.

There is an ocean of paint colours out there for you to choose from. Whether you are looking for colours to paint just one wall or you are looking for colours for a particular room, find inspiration galore with these wall painting ideas.

Grey
If you thought grey was boring, you need to see this living room! Grey is not as neutral as you imagine. Grey comes in an array of hues, from subtle pale shades to deep rich pigments, creating a calming or an electrifying effect. The right grey can fit in with any decorating style.

Pink
A pale pink or coral can be fresh and feminine, exuding elegance in warm light. Though pink or rose may not be your choice and you may shy from it, it actually works well.

Tropical Green
Green works well with light wood furniture or floors and bedding. Green is also ideal for enhancing a room without natural light.

Red
No list is complete without the mention of red. It is known to be stimulating. Many people don't like to opt for it in bedrooms but a burnt brick red can look striking.

Aqua
Aqua works in just about any room, but it is particularly soothing in the bedroom. You can bring in the essence of nature with coastal shades and brighten up any space.

Light Cocoa
A down-to-earth brown can create an intimate space. This shade of brown is exceptionally versatile, and can work in just about any style of bedroom.

Yellow
Yellow ranks second in sleep-inducing colours, making it perfect for your bedroom. Yellow is a bold yet versatile choice, ideal for adding a sense of warmth and energy to any living space.

Blue
True blue, be it sky blue or navy blue is one of the most versatile hues for the interiors of your home. It can add freshness to your home in a jiffy!

We're sure you will have realised by now that the options in colours are literally endless and we hope you found some inspiration on wall painting ideas from this list. Take a look at this article to know some perfect wall décor ideas for the perfect interiors: https://www.bergerpaints.com/colour-magazine/june/2017/decor/

Wall Colours
Start with the colours on the walls. The easiest way to amp up a living room is by painting a wall in a lovely shade. You can take the plunge with a bold colour or opt for stencils if you want something different. You can take a look here for some inspiration.

Wall Display
Are your walls empty stretches of white? Why not try hanging some artwork and photo frames? You can make an eclectic gallery wall. Just don't worry too much about what matches.

Lighting
Light fixtures are a key element when it comes to designing any room. Proper lighting can set the mood of your living room. Make sure to take into account the style, shape, colour and size of the light fixture. Replace your dull ceiling fixture for something spectacular like a chandelier. Even if you change nothing else in your living room, a bold chandelier or a wall pendant can add panache in an instant. There are endless styles to choose from and we are sure you will find something that you love.

Floating Shelves
Do you know about floating shelves? They are very versatile and are a great blend of form and function. They are perfect for displaying your photos, collectibles, and travel mementos or just about anything you wish to showcase. They are sturdy even without visible supports, brackets or hardware.

Chalkboard
The chalkboard trend is going strong and you can incorporate it in your living room too! Let out your inner Picasso or Rumi! You can simply doodle on it or express your thoughts. Just let the conversation flow with a great chalkboard conversation piece.

Accent Pieces
You can add texture to any room by adding an accent rug of any fabric you like. It is a great way to make the floors of your living room look fashionable. You can throw in some accent pillows and throw blankets on the couch or the sofa for added effect.

Hope you found some living room colour ideas and décor tips for you here. Have fun decorating!