As autumn approaches and the cool weather sets in, it's easy to be overwhelmed by home maintenance projects on your fall to-do list. All those summer days spent barbequing and lying by the pool may have put your home renovation projects on hiatus. With the holidays around the corner, it's the perfect time to do something about it.

Try Before You Buy

By applying a few simple ideas and renovating your personal space with a new look, you can make sure the chilly weather that's on its way doesn't get the best of you and your holiday guests.

One of the easiest ways to do this is by adding a splash of color to your walls to make your rooms warm and inviting. By avoiding cooler tones like blues and purples and applying deeper shades like reds and browns, you can stay warm -- even when the weather's not. An added bonus: you can enjoy fall colors indoors.

But with so many colors to choose from, it's easy to get overwhelmed. That's why Dutch Boy developed dry Dimensions Color Samples. These poster-sized color samples, available in 105 shades, ease your workload. Plus, they save you time and money -- two things desperately needed during the holidays. There's no more mess, tools or cleanup commonly associated with using "wet" paint samples. Just affix the paint sample to your wall with tape or adhesive, stand back and decide if the color's right for you. Want to test multiple colors? Don't worry. Samples are easy to peel off.

Just 'Roll' With It

Once you've selected the perfect color, painting can be easy and stress free, with a little planning. Here are a few tips:

1. Get moving: Remove any furniture, or organize items in the center of the room and cover with a drop cloth.

2. Wash it off: With a sponge and mild soap, lightly scrub the dirt, dust and grime from the walls. Rinse with clean water to remove soap residue.

3. Shape with tape: Apply painter's tape to areas you don't want to paint, like trim and door and window frames. But make sure to remove the tape immediately after painting so dried paint doesn't peel off.

4. Time to prime: Priming the walls will allow for a more uniform and smooth finish. Apply with a clean roller.

5. Go where your roller can't: Use a small brush to paint the areas around trim and frames.

6. Apply and dry: Paint one wall at a time applying two coats.

7. Enjoy!

And if you don't want to tackle a complete room redo, follow the same color logic you would for your walls and instead use simple accessories like throw pillows, drapes or pottery to give the room personality. Visit your local flea market and scope out some vintage ceramic pieces, vases or frames in various shapes and sizes. Group similar items together to add dimension and color to the space.

Other simple solutions to make your home more appealing include adding fresh flowers. They can be purchased year round at your local market. If you're worried they won't last, don't be afraid to fake it. Faux flowers like gerber daisies and mums are a great alternative to the real deal -- adding life and color to any room.

Any way you choose to tackle your painting projects this fall, just remember to relax and enjoy the process. And reward yourself with something seasonal like a cup of warm apple cider or a piece of pumpkin pie. After all, you've earned it!

Source : ARA