This page is designed to answer common questions, help you make confident design decisions, and prepare your space for your project. You don’t need to read everything at once — feel free to jump to the sections that apply to your project. 

1. What to Expect from Start to Finish

An overview of what to expect before, during, and after your project

2. Pricing Guide

Every project is unique. These ranges are intended to provide general guidance.

3. Accent Walls: How to Choose the Right One

Make it intentional. Don't force it.

4. Client-Favorite Paint Colors

I love Behr Ultra (from The Home Depot) and Emerald Interior Latex (from Sherwin Williams).

5. Sampling Paint Colors in your Home

Use Pinterest, swatches, and tips to find the perfect shade without regrets.

6. Should you Paint the Sample Directly onto your Wall?

Yes! If you feather it out.

7. Borrow my Paint Color Sample Pack

Test large samples I created of popular paint colors in your home.

8. Choosing the Right White Paint for your Home

 Not all whites are created equal—learn how lighting and undertones change everything.

9. Borrow my Stain Color Sample Pack

Some accent wall builds have a stained wooden piece. See samples of stains I offer.

10. Home Depot and at Sherwin-Williams

I offer a discount on paint purchases when you use my phone number in check out.

11. Hooks for Wooden Accent Walls

Get links to my client's favorite hooks I've used on wooden accent walls.

12. Freshly Painted Home? Here's what to know!

Keep your walls looking flawless with these easy care tips.

13. Deposit and Payment

Everything you need to know about securing your project and payment methods.

14. Preparing your Home for Your Upcoming Project

Simple steps to get your home ready before I arrive—makes the process smooth and stress-free.

15. Refer a Friend & Get a $25 Thank You!

Share the love! Earn rewards when friends book a project with me.

Before the Project

• Decide on the project design/details with Sarah
• Client reads & signs contract & sends deposit. (This reserves your spot on my calendar.)
• Client purchases paint per details in contract 
• Client references "Client Preparation Checklist" in contract. See a more in-depth version HERE.
• Text me with any questions you may have
   

During the Project

• I arrive on the scheduled date and time
• I protect surrounding areas and surfaces
• Work progresses efficiently with attention to detail
   

After the Project

• Walkthrough of the finished space
• Payment is given. Cash, check or Venmo.
• Aftercare and timeframe for rehanging decor HERE

Typical Project Pricing

Every project is unique, and final pricing depends on wall size, design complexity, materials, and finishes. The ranges below are meant to give you a general idea of what clients typically invest for custom interior wall projects in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. Please note, there may be a travel fee added into a quote if you are outside of my typical area of service.

Custom Wooden Accent Walls (Click to view styles & Gallery)
Most accent wall projects fall between $800 – $2,500+, depending on the size of the wall, type of wood, design complexity (diamond, board and batten, geometric patterns, etc).

Hand Painted Murals (Click to view Gallery)
Mural pricing begins at $600 and varies widely depending on wall size, level of intricacy detail, and custom design elements. A design with lots of layers, shading, detail, would have a higher price point than something that is less intricate. Projects typically range from $600-$1500+.

Interior Wall Painting (Click to view Gallery)
Full room painting projects typically range from $600 – $900+, based on room size, and wall condition. This includes two coats of paint.

Why Prices Vary

• Wall size/room dimensions – Larger or multiple walls require more time and materials. 
• Design complexity – Geometric patterns, wood slats, or hand-painted murals increase labor and skill needed. 
• Materials and finishes – Specialty paints, textures, or high-end wood add to the overall investment. 
• Ceiling height or vaulted ceilings  – Standard height is 8'. If you space is taller, pricing would be adjusted.
• Prep Work Required – Wood is cut and primed before I arrive, and walls are repaired, filled, and sanded on-site for a smooth, professional finish. 
• Your location – If you're out of my area of service, a Travel Fee may be included.
  

Every project is unique. Final pricing is based on on-site measurements, design details, and material selections. These ranges are intended to provide general guidance only.
 

If your project falls outside these ranges, don’t hesitate to reach out — I’m happy to discuss options that fit your vision and budget.

Make them Intentional

Accent walls should never feel trendy or random.

Before starting, ask:

• Is this the right wall?
• Will it complement existing furniture and flow?

Feature walls work best when they enhance architecture, solve a problem, or anchor a space visually. Usually, they are the main wall you see when you walk into a room. Often times they are the wall behind the headboard, or used as a backdrop for a desk in an office.

Beautiful AND Functional

Think beyond aesthetics:

• Hooks for coats and backpacks
• Built-in ledges or storage
• Durable finishes in high-traffic areas

When form and function work together, a space feels finished, and stays that way.

Is Pinterest a good tool for choosing paint colors?

Yes. Pinterest is an excellent paint color inspiration tool, especially if you want to see how a specific paint color looks in real homes and real lighting conditions.

Searching for a paint color on Pinterest allows you to view:

• The same paint color used in different rooms
• How paint colors look with various trim colors
• How lighting affects paint color throughout the day
• Real-life applications instead of staged store samples
   

How do you search for a specific paint color on Pinterest?

To get the best results when researching paint colors on Pinterest, use the full paint color name and brand.

Example:
If you’re considering Evergreen Fog by Sherwin-Williams, search:

• “Evergreen Fog by Sherwin-Williams paint”
  

This will show photos of that paint color used in:

• Living rooms
• Bedrooms
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Accent walls
   

Seeing the same paint color in multiple spaces helps you understand undertones and how the color behaves in different environments.

Why does paint color look different in other people’s homes?

Paint colors can appear very different depending on several factors, including:

• Natural light exposure
• Artificial lighting and bulb temperature
• Wall direction (north-facing vs south-facing rooms)
• Trim color and finish
• Flooring and surrounding décor
   

Pinterest helps you see these variations, but it cannot replace testing paint in your own space.

Yes — if it’s done correctly.
Painting samples directly on your wall is one of the best ways to see how a paint color looks in your specific lighting. Improper application, however, can leave raised edges that show through the final coat.

How to apply paint samples the right way

• Feather or fan out the edges to avoid raised ridges
• Avoid thick, square swatches, which often require sanding later
• Apply enough paint for full coverage so the old wall color doesn’t show through
• Use the same paint and finish planned for the final wall
• Check the sample in multiple lighting conditions, including daylight, artificial light, and at night
   

Best way to test paint colors at home

• Purchase a small paint sample (about $7 at Home Depot or $12 at Sherwin-Williams)
• Paint the sample directly on the wall and feather the edges
• Apply the sample large enough to evaluate (about 2’ x 2’ is ideal)
• View the color at different times of day and under different lighting
   

What’s the best way to choose the right paint color?

The most reliable approach to choosing interior paint colors is to:

• Use Pinterest for inspiration and research
• Narrow down a few favorite shades
• Test paint samples in your own home
• Evaluate each color in multiple lighting conditions
   

Watch a video I've created explaining it in detail HERE.

This process helps avoid costly paint mistakes and ensures confidence before painting an entire room.

Feeling overwhelmed? Just want to see some tried and true client-favorite colors?

Choosing paint colors for your home can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with dozens of nearly identical shades. A Paint Color Sample Pack simplifies the process by narrowing options down to popular, proven interior paint colors that homeowners consistently love.

A curated paint sample pack helps you:

• Avoid decision fatigue when choosing interior paint colors
• Compare real paint colors instead of tiny store paint chips
• See how colors look in your specific room lighting

What is included in the Paint Color Sample Pack?

Each Paint Color Sample Pack is designed to make choosing paint colors easier and more accurate. The pack includes:

• Large paint swatches
  Larger samples make it much easier to visualize how a paint color will look on an entire wall compared to small paint chips.
• Painter’s tape
  Allows for easy placement and repositioning without damaging your walls.
• Behr fan deck with the full color collection
  Provides access to Behr’s complete interior paint color lineup for additional inspiration or color matching.

How do you use paint samples correctly in your home?

To get the most accurate representation of a paint color, follow these professional paint sampling tips:

• Tape the large paint samples directly to your wall
• Place samples near windows, trim, doors, and corners
• Move samples to different walls to see how lighting affects the color
• Check the samples at different times of day, including morning, afternoon, and night
• View samples in both natural light and artificial lighting

This process shows how paint colors interact with your room’s layout, finishes, and lighting conditions.

Who should buy the paint for the project?

Clients are asked to purchase the paint themselves to ensure they get the exact paint color and sheen (shine level) they want for their home. 

What paint brand is recommended?

I recommend Behr Ultra (from The Home Depot) or Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint (from Sherwin-Willilams) for interior wall and accent wall projects. I may suggest a specific type of paint for you based on your project. I like to offer two options so you have options from a pricing stand point. Both are GREAT options! 

• Both offer excellent coverage and durability
• They performs well in high-traffic areas
• They provide a smooth, professional finish
   

Tip: Both The Home Depot and Sherwin-Williams can color-match paint from other brands. If you’ve found a color you love from a different manufacturer, they can recreate that using their paint. 

What paint finish is best for interior walls?

For most interior wall painting projects, the best paint finishes are:

• Eggshell/Matte finish – soft, low sheen with good durability
• Satin finish – slightly higher sheen, wipeable, and ideal for families or high-use spaces
   

Best paint finish for bathrooms and moisture-prone rooms

• Satin finish works best in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other areas exposed to moisture due to its durability and ease of cleaning.

What paint should be used for wooden accent walls?

Behr Ultra paint is also an excellent choice for wooden accent walls and custom wall treatments.

• The ideal sheen depends on the wall design, room lighting, and location
• Sheen selection affects how texture and wood details are highlighted
• I help guide clients in choosing the best finish for their specific accent wall project

Can you get help choosing paint colors and finishes?

Yes. Whether your project is a single accent wall or a full interior painting project, guidance is available every step of the way.

If you have questions about:

• Interior paint colors
• Paint finishes and sheen levels
• Paint prep and sampling
• Accent walls or custom wall treatments
   

Just ask. The goal is to make choosing paint feel simple, confident, and stress-free — and to help bring your vision to life.

Choosing the right wood stain color can completely transform your space — and it’s not always easy to decide from tiny store samples.

The pack includes nine beautiful stain options, ranging from light to dark tones, including custom stain combinations used in my client projects. Seeing real stained wood samples in your own lighting makes it easier to choose a finish that coordinates with your flooring, trim, paint color, and overall design.

Stained Accent Wall & Custom Shelf Options

If you love the warmth of stained wood, I can incorporate it into your project in several ways, including:

• Board & Batten accent walls with a stained wood divider
• Chevron and decorative wall designs with stained elements
• Custom stained picture ledge shelves
• Custom picture ledge shelf
   

The Custom Picture Ledge Shelf is a client favorite and looks beautiful above a bed, couch, or anywhere you want to display art, photos, or décor. Each shelf is custom-built to fit your space and stained to match your selected finish perfectly.

If you’re planning a stained wood accent wall or custom wood feature, ask about borrowing the Stain Color Sample Pack before your project begins.

It’s the easiest way to choose a stain color with confidence and avoid second-guessing your final decision.

Paint Purchasing & Recommendations

I ask my clients to purchase the paint for their projects. I’ll let you know exactly how much paint to buy, and we’ll discuss which brand and finish I recommend based on your specific project.

Behr Ultra Paint (The Home Depot)

I have used Behr Ultra paint (purchased at The Home Depot) for years—in both my own home and my clients’ homes—and I truly love it. It holds up beautifully, is durable, and is a great more budget-friendly alternative to other leading brands.

• Most projects: Eggshell finish
• High-moisture areas or extra durability: Satin finish
   

If you find a color from another brand, The Home Depot can color-match it. Just let them know the color name and brand.
Example: “Evergreen Fog by Sherwin Williams in Behr Ultra, Eggshell finish.”

I always recommend placing a small dot of paint on the swatch card or lid so you can verify the color before leaving the store.

Client Discount:
I offer my clients 20% off paint at Home Depot.
✔ Use my phone number in the "Pro-Xtra ID" section at checkout. 952-248-0474
✔ Paint is approximately $35 per gallon with the discount
✔ Please verify the discount is applied before paying—there have been a few system glitches, and I want to be sure you receive it
(See photos below for reference)

Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex (Sherwin-Williams)

I also absolutely love Sherwin-Williams Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint. It’s widely known as a high-quality paint, and while it is a bit more expensive, many clients feel it’s well worth it.

• Most clients prefer Matte or Satin finishes
• Satin offers a bit more scrub-ability than Matte
• (For reference: most new-construction homes are painted in Flat, the lowest sheen)
   

Client Discount:
I offer 40% off at Sherwin-Williams.
✔ Use my phone number at checkout. 952-248-0474
✔ It may still appear under my previous business name, Savage DIY Mom
✔ Paint is approximately $59 per gallon with the discount
✔ Sherwin-Williams can also color-match other brands
✔ Again, I recommend adding a small dot of paint to the swatch card or lid to confirm the color

What are the best wall hooks for a foyer, mudroom, or bathroom?

The best wall hooks depend on both function and design — especially if your project includes a wood accent wall or shelf. Not every hook style works well with shelves, overhangs, or specific wall treatments.

To help simplify the process, I’ve curated a list of favorite wall hooks from Amazon that work well for:

• Entryway and foyer accent walls
• Mudroom storage walls
• Bathroom towel hooks
• Wood accent walls with shelves
   

Why doesn’t every wall hook work with shelves or accent walls?

When installing hooks on a custom accent wall, size and shape matter.

Some wall hooks:

• Are too tall to fit underneath shelves
• Stick out too far and interfere with overhangs
• Don’t align well with slatted or paneled wall designs
   

Choosing the wrong hook can affect both usability and the overall look of your wall.

How do you know if a wall hook will work with your design?

The easiest way to avoid mistakes is to verify hook compatibility before installing.

You can:

• Send a photo or link of the hook you’re considering
• Share details about your shelf depth or wall design
   

I’ll double-check that the hook works with:

• Shelf height and overhang
• Accent wall spacing and layout
• Intended use (coats, bags, towels, or accessories)
   

Can you use wall hooks that aren’t on the Amazon list?

Yes. If you find another hook you love, feel free to send photos or links.

I’m happy to confirm whether it will work with:

• The accent wall style we’re installing
• Shelf placement and clearance
• The overall design of your foyer, mudroom, or bathroom
   

Where can you find recommended wall hooks?

You can view my Amazon list of recommended wall hooks below.
These options are selected for their compatibility with wood accent walls, shelves, and high-use spaces.

See my Amazon list

Your walls are looking amazing—here are a few quick tips to keep that fresh finish looking its best:

Dry vs. Cure: 

Paint can take up to 30 days to fully cure. Be gentle with walls and surfaces during this time.
Air it Out: 

Keep windows open or fans running to help clear out that “new paint” smell.
Hold Off on Hanging: 

Wait a few days before putting up décor so paint has time to harden.
Skip the Scrub: 

Don’t wash walls for at least 2–3 weeks. When you do, use mild soap + soft cloth only.
Touch-ups:

Save leftover paint in a sealed container for future touch-ups. Label the can with room name and date.

Little things like this go a long way in making your paint job last longer and look flawless! 

Preparing your space ahead of time allows me to begin working immediately and maximize productive work time in your home. (I've included a checklist in your contract for easy reference.)

1. Confirm Accurate Wall Measurements

For Wooden Accent Walls: Please confirm that the wall measurements provided during the quoting process are accurate.

If measurements are off by more than 3 inches, a revised quote will be required. 

2. Choose Your Paint Color

If you need help narrowing down paint colors, you may borrow my curated Paint Color Sample Pack. This collection includes popular, tried-and-true interior paint colors from multiple brands — helping you avoid sorting through hundreds of nearly identical shades.

You can find full details about the Paint Sample Pack on my website.

How to Properly Test Paint Samples on Your Wall

If you plan to sample paint directly on the wall:

• Feather or fan out the edges of each sample to avoid raised paint lines.
• Avoid thick square patches, which can show through the final coat.
   

3. Move Furniture Away From Walls

Please move furniture at least 4 feet away from all project walls (as best as possible).
 

4. Wall Holes & Repairs

• Leave nails in place if you would like them to remain
• I will fill all other nail holes, small dents, and minor wall imperfections.
• If there is large drywall damage, please notify me as soon as possible.

5. Outlet Covers, Curtains & Hardware

For wooden accent wall installations:

• Leave outlet covers on.

For standard interior paint jobs:

• Please remove outlet covers ahead of time.

Additionally:

• Remove curtains and vent covers if applicable.
• Curtain rods and installed hardware may remain in place.
   

6. Clean & Dust Surfaces

Before your painting appointment, please dust:

• Baseboards
• Any noticeable dust or spider webs

7. Take Note of Any Existing Paint Issues

If there is existing paint residue, drips, or previous DIY mistakes on trim or baseboards, please take a mental note of it. I take pride in delivering a clean, high-end finish and don't want my paint job to be confused with someone else's.

8. Winter or Rainy Weather Considerations

If your wooden accent wall project requires cutting materials on site and weather conditions are poor, garage workspace access is greatly appreciated.  I will vacuum/clean up completely prior to leaving.

What You Need to Supply

You are responsible for providing:

• Interior paint (will be outlined in the contract)
• Hooks if your project requires them
  (Recommended hooks available here.)
   

Before your project, I will provide my best professional estimate of how much paint you will need. If additional paint is required during the project, I will notify you immediately.

I will supply all other professional tools and materials needed for your project. 

Project Additions & Scope Changes

If you decide to:

• Adjust the design plan
• Expand the project in any way

Please notify me as soon as possible so I can provide an updated quote.

Payment

• Deposit is due at the time of scheduling. It reserves your spot on my calendar. 
• Payment is due once the project is complete.  Cash, check, and Venmo is accepted.

I’m so grateful when past clients and friends share my work — it truly means everything to a small, local business like mine.

If you refer someone to Brushstrokes & Timber and they book and complete a project, I’ll send you a $25 Venmo thank-you as a small way to show my appreciation 

How it works:

• Refer a friend, neighbor, or family member to Brushstrokes & Timber
   
• They schedule a project and mention your name when booking
   
• Once their project is completed, you’ll receive a $25 thank-you via Venmo
   

Word-of-mouth is how my business grows, and I’m endlessly thankful for it. 

It means more than you know.