First impressions count so what better way to make a bold statement than with a grand entrance to your home. Adding a dash of colour to your front door and porch accessories is a simple way to really improve your entrance and make first impressions last.

Contrasting colours or colours working tonally can play an integral role in the balance of your home’s exterior. Start by selecting your door colour, then introduce a range of accessories in complementary colours – such as a door-mat, potted or hanging plants, seating, lighting and wall hangings.

1: Front Door, gather your painting supplies – Dulux Aquanamel in your chosen colour(s), Dulux 1Step Prep, drop sheet, high quality synthetic brush for cutting in, short nap (5-10mm) roller, roller tray, 400 grit sandpaper,painter’s tape, old cloths.

2: After sanding down the surface, apply one coat of Dulux 1Step Prep.

3: Commence painting by cutting in around the edges of the door using Dulux Aquanamel.

4: Apply Dulux Aquanamel to the surface using short, horizontal brush strokes.

5: Once you’ve completed an area, while the paint is still wet, lightly smooth over the painted section with long brush strokes – but, don’t overdo orreload the brush – a few brush strokes will smooth the surface.

6: Use a paint roller for the broad section of the door. Allow 2 hours to dry, then give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper.

7: Repeat steps 4 and 5 for the second coat.

1: Bench Seat, Ensure the surface has been properly prepared prior to starting to paint. Follow the label on the can for more information.

2: Commence painting by cutting in around the edges of the furniture piece.

3: Apply Dulux Aquanamel to the surface using short, horizontal brush strokes.

4: Once you’ve completed an area, while the paint is still wet, lightly smoothover the painted section with long brush strokes – but, don’t overdo or reload the brush – a few brush strokes will smooth the surface.

5: Allow 2 hours to dry, then give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper.

6: Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the second coat.

Most of all have fun with your project and don’t forget to get sample pots of your favourite colours before you start.