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1. Choose the Right Paint
Consider the Finish: Matte, satin, and gloss finishes all serve different purposes. For walls, go with matte or eggshell for a smooth look; for trims, gloss is durable and easy to clean.
Water-Based vs. Oil-Based: Water-based paints for walls are easier to clean and faster drying, while oil-based paints are great for durability and used for skirts, door frames and doors, but require more cleanup effort.
2. Invest in Quality Brushes and Rollers
Cheap tools can shed bristles or leave streaks, ruining your finish. High-quality brushes and rollers hold paint better and apply it more evenly. Look for a synthetic brush for water-based paints and natural bristles for oil-based ones.
3. Prep Your Surfaces Thoroughly
Clean the Walls: Dirt, grease, and dust can ruin paint adhesion. Wipe walls down with a damp cloth or sugar soap.
Fill Holes and Cracks: Use a filler to fill all cracks and holes. Remove all wall plugs, screws or nails before hand. Sand with 120 grit sandpaper to smooth out imperfections and area's you have filled once it’s dry.
Tape Off Edges: Use painter’s tape to protect trim, windows, and other areas you don’t want painted.
4. Don’t Skip Priming
Primer creates a uniform base, especially if you’re covering dark colors, stains, or porous surfaces. If you’re painting over a light color with another light color, consider a paint-and-primer combo.
Prime woodwork before painting your finish. Makes sure to scuff any previous woodwork with sandpaper so the primer can key and not just sit on the original paintwork
5. Test Colors Before Committing
Paint can look different in your home due to lighting. Test small patches on your wall and observe them throughout the day to see how the color looks in natural and artificial light.
6. Mix Paint Thoroughly
Paint can separate in the can, so stir it thoroughly before use. For consistency in large spaces, mix multiple cans of the same color in a large bucket to avoid slight variations.
7. Use the Right Technique
Cut In First: Use a brush to paint around edges, corners, and trims before rolling. This ensures you won’t miss any hard-to-reach spots.
Roll in a “W” Pattern: Start by rolling in a “W” or “M” shape and then fill it in. This helps distribute the paint evenly.
Work in Small Sections: Don’t let paint dry before blending it into adjoining sections.
Work from top to bottom - Ceilings, Walls then Woodwork, this eliminates drops or splatters hitting freshly painted surfaces
8. Apply Multiple Thin Coats
A single thick coat can drip and take forever to dry. Instead, apply two or three thin coats, letting each one dry before adding the next. This gives a smoother, more durable finish.
9. Maintain a Wet Edge
Always keep a wet edge when painting large areas to avoid lap marks, where one section of paint dries before overlapping it with another.
10. Clean Up Properly
Remove painter’s tape before the paint is completely dry to avoid peeling. Clean brushes and rollers immediately after use (use warm soapy water for water-based paints and mineral spirits for oil-based ones). Store leftover paint properly for touch-ups.
By following these tips, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and be on your way to a stunning paint job. Remember, patience and preparation are key to great results!
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