Blow Up A Landscape Photo For A Wall Mural

 Q: I've seen some fantastic wall murals on decorating shows and wonder if it really is possible for anyone to do this in their home? Can you put a mural in a bathroom? We are do-it-yourselfers and love your ideas.

A: Decorating a focal wall with a mural is an exciting trend right now, and it's one that I have had lots of fun sharing with unsuspecting homeowners in my new series "All for One With Debbie Travis." The effect is so breathtaking, it's hard to believe it is not that difficult to produce. If you can take a good photograph and hang wallpaper, you're ready. Murals are particularly appropriate in rooms that have no windows, such as a basement room or den, but they are as flexible as your imagination. The larger-than-life image will transport you and your space. The picture draws you in, adding beauty and a new dimension as walls disappear.

You can search the Net for an appropriate image, or take your own high-resolution photograph. Look for an outdoor vista that captures your favorite mood: woodlands, gardens, Northern lakes, sun-bleached beaches, a flock of birds, horses jumping, whatever inspires you to relax and enjoy the moment. Measure the wall to be covered, and ask your local printer to reproduce the image onto adhesive-backed wallpaper to fit the space. Vinyl-coated wallcovering is a good option, as it is durable and can be hung in a bathroom. Lay out the strips on the floor, matching up the image, and then hang, using a seam roller to smooth the edges.

You can continue the image onto the ceiling, or simply paint the ceiling in a color that matches the top of the photograph ... continue the sky blue or gray in a slightly paler shade.

Q: Would you please advise me on how to paint embossed wallpaper? I am using red paint.

A: Although priming is not required when painting embossed wallpaper, it is advisable if you are painting a dark color, such as red, dark blue or green. Mix some gray into the primer, and it will help you to get solid coverage when painting dark, saturated hues. Too much paint will saturate the paper, so apply a thin coat of the red paint over the prime coat with a thick-pile roller. Work carefully, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies of the raised design. Let dry for four hours, then apply a second thin coat — that should give you full coverage.