2014 Easy DIY Folding Screens Ideas : Room Dividers

There are infinite ways to customize DIY folding screens. Here are just a few ideas to inspire your artistry :

Paint both sides of each door with a color that picks up a major hue in the room. After the first coat is dry, apply a second color lightly with a sponge.

Paint all sides of each door the same color as your sofa or walls. Buy a smaller quantity of an accent color ( one that picks up the colors of your throw pillows, rug, or lamps ). After the first coat of paint is thoroughly dry, use a stencil to apply your accent color. ( A small design may get lost on a large surface, so try a bold one. )

Paint only the edges of the doors; then cover the fronts ( and backs. if you wish ) with wallpaper. Prepasted vinyl is the easiest wallpaper to apply.

Decorate with die-cut wallpaper borders, which are even more interesting when they are applied vertically.

Apply wallpaper to part or all of each door. Be sure to measure carefully and cut the wallpaper to the exact size. Don't forget to smooth out any bubbles in the paper.

Decoupage each door. Glue old photos, clipping, postcards, or any other paper item that's special to you on the doors. You can also decoupage with fabric. The medium is sold in all crafts stores and comes with simple directions. Be sure to finish your project using a clear, nonyellowing top coat.

Decorate alternate sides differently for a reversible look. If the screen will be a room divider, coordinate each side with the room it's facing.

If you are using old shutters, you'll need to clean and paint them before attaching them to each other. Again, if the shutters are vintage, they may have lead paint, in which case you should forgo painting them and leave them shabby but chic. If you are using new shutters, painting is also optional. And if you are going to hang objects on them, turn them upside down that is, with the larger opening of each slat facing upward that will allow you to insert a more easily. Once you insert a few hooks, you can hang objects from them, such as strands of beads, greeting card keepers, scarves, or plants.