Anaglypta sticks to stucco if not too bumpy

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 02/06/2002 (8557 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Dear Debbie — I saw an article you wrote about Anaglypta wallcovering and would like to use it when I redo my dining room. However, the ceiling and the walls from the plate rail to the ceiling are painted textured plaster. Can I use the Anaglypta wallpaper over these areas? If not, do you have any other suggestions? Thanks for your help.

— Pat F., email

Dear Pat — Anaglypta is a thick wallpaper embossed with a pattern. It is much thicker than standard wallpapers as it is designed to be painted. It will adhere to plaster walls as long as the stucco is not too bumpy or pointy. If this is the case, then the solution is to sand the extra rough surface down. Anaglypta is available in many designs in borders, ceiling paper, dado and full wall lengths. If sanding down the stucco is too big a job, choose a colour that coordinates with the painted Anaglypta on the wall. Apply it above the chair rail, and then a lighter version of that colour on the ceiling.

Dear Debbie — We live in a modest two-bedroom home and are going to be living here for at least two more years. We are expecting our second child in August and will be putting him or her into the same bedroom with our three-year-old. There’s room for a single bed and a crib and a dresser. Have you any storage tips for baby’s rooms, and also what would be a good colour for the walls? Thank you for your great shows.

–Sonya K, email

Dear Sonya — Congratulations on your forthcoming arrival. You are going to be a busy lady. There are so many clever furnishings available now that have a dual purpose for children. I would first purchase a dresser that doubles as a changing table. Attach a series of shelves up high for everyday items that need to be kept away from little fingers. Put baby items in baskets on the shelves. When shelves are high we see the brackets rather than the tops of the shelves, so choose fabulous brackets that are both decorative and practical. Buy a single bed that has storage built in under it, and a crib that transforms into a single bed.

I love metal dustbins for the numerous toys and stuffed animals your children will collect over the years. The bins are easy to paint in bright colours. Keep the walls in a palette of soft pastels. Why not try some of the delicate new pearlescent colours?

If you can hang on another month my new decorating book, Kids Rooms, will be available and it’s packed with ideas for children’s rooms from cradle to college.

Dear Debbie — I have been considering cork as a flooring material for my house in the country. I have been told that it is softer to walk on and warmer, and easy to maintain. Do you know of any problems with cork floors? Thank you.

–Betty F., email

Dear Betty — I am a huge fan of cork floors, but you must do your research as there are several. A Uniclic cork floor, made by Torlys, simply clicks into place and does not require either glue or nails. It can be removed and later put down in a different room or another home. Thin chair legs or heavy furniture may leave an impression. There are stronger floating cork floors, which are more durable but need to be glued in place, and then there are the cheaper cork tiles available from the hardware store. All cork is warm on the feet, non-allergenic and easy to maintain. It’s also available in several colours and patterns.

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The Painted House column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Send letters to Ask Debbie, c/o The Painted House, PO Box 425, Station Westmount, Westmount, Que. H3Z 2T5, or e-mail Debbie at askdebbie@painted-house.com. We regret that only letters chosen for publication can be answered personally. Check Debbie’s Web site www.painted-house.com. and watch Debbie Travis’ Painted House aired daily on WTN. For more ideas look for Debbie’s newest book, Living and Dining Rooms.