Step up!

Project ideas and inspiration from Good magazine

Use Resene paint and tape to take a drab step to a new level.

A fresh coat of paint will better protect your doorstep from the elements, create a great first impression and give you a lift every time you step out.

How to refresh your doorstep

top tip If your entryway gets slippery when wet, add Resene Anti-Slip Grip Additive into the first coat of Resene Walk-on for extra slip resistance, or use Resene Non-Skid Deck & Path.

For a lasting result, apply Resene products formulated specifically for the surface you are painting. Then use professional grade masking tape to easily create a stunning multi-colour pattern.

Choose colours that complement your home’s exterior. In this case, the exterior walls are painted in Resene Joanna, door surrounds in Resene Lemon Grass and door threshold in Resene Pioneer Red. I used a combination of Resene Half Joanna and Resene Double Lemon Grass for a dramatic doorstep effect.

You need

500ml Resene Sureseal
1 litre Resene Walk-on in a light Resene colour of your choice, I used Resene Half Joanna
1 litre Resene Walk-on in a dark Resene colour of your choice, I used Resene Double Lemon Grass
Two paintbrushes
Mineral turps, rags and gloves
Washi Advanced masking tape
Resene Heavy Duty Paint Prep and Oil Remover

Step by step instructions

Step 1 - Clean the steps Step 1:
Clean the step with Resene Heavy Duty Paint Prep and Oil Remover. Allow to fully dry.

Step 2 - Apply a coat of Resene Sureseal Step 2:
Apply a coat of Resene Sureseal, a solvent-based product that penetrates and bonds to concrete and other chalky or powdery surfaces, making them suitable for painting. Clean your brush using turps and rags.

Step 3 - Paint the surface with two coats of the lighter shade of Resene Walk-on Step 3:
Paint the surface with two coats of the first (and lighter) shade of Resene Walk-on, allowing dry time before applying a second coat. Leave overnight. Wrap your brush in a reusable plastic bag between coats to save washing your brush out.

Step 4 - Measure a three-by-three grid Step 4:
Measure a three-by-three grid, making small marks on the step edges. The squares can be equally sized or graduated. Use the Washi tape to delineate all edges, firmly press all of the tape down.

Step 5 - Paint alternate squares with two coats of the darker shade of Resene Walk-on Step 5:
Paint alternate squares with two coats of the second, darker shade of Resene Walk-on allowing dry time between coats. Leave for at least 12 hours. Wash brushes in water.