How to Use a Projector to Paint a Kid's Room

Shop for art projectors at retail stores or art supply websites, or save a bundle and try liquidators for marked-down versions. Expect better projection quality from the pricey models, but if don't plan to use your unit frequently, you may wish to go cheap. Check each projector for enlargement ratio: One may only be capable of 10x enlargements while another offers 20x -- a fact you'll need to consider if you're trying to cover a huge wall.

Clear the room. Place the projector atop furniture or a stand (if you're stuck, grab the ironing board). Employ an extension cord if you must position the projector in the middle of the room to get the job done.

Tape the projector to its stand to stabilize it. Duct tape the table or cart on which the projector rests to the floor. Alternately, weigh it down so it can't be jostled or moved. Skip this step and you're asking for trouble, as moving the projector even 1 inch could sabotage the image transfer process.

Spackle and prime -- satin or eggshell interior paint work best for wall mural prep. Allow the wall to dry to the touch -- perhaps an hour following one coat. Sand the wall to obliterate nail holes and blemishes. Draw the blinds, extinguish the lights, and flip the projector switch.

Use pencils to transfer lines, images, shapes and designs to the wall. Keep tabs on your projector's temperature if you've bought an inexpensive model with no fan. Double-check your wall drawing against the original art before taking down the projector.

Use acrylic paints to color in mural fields. Allow the wall to dry before you touch up or smooth out strokes that spilled outside original lines. Use a small brush and black paint if you like outlines. Blend color with white paint to add detail and definition. If your child is at least 10, isn't the impatient sort and wants to help with his mural, say yes.

Seal your masterpiece with a high-quality varnish. Not only will varnish extend the life of your mural, but if your little Picasso decides to add his own artistic touches with his new box of crayons, you won't be tempted to order a time-out within his enchanting kingdom.