Painting is one of the most popular DIY projects, but the difference between an average finish and a professional one comes down to preparation and technique. Follow these steps for clean, lasting results.
Gather Your Supplies
- Quality paint and primer
- Angled brush for cutting in
- Roller frame and roller covers suited to your wall texture
- Painter’s tape and drop cloths
- Spackle, putty knife, and fine-grit sandpaper
- Paint tray and extension pole
Step 1: Prepare the Room
Move furniture out or to the center and cover it. Lay drop cloths over the floor. Remove outlet covers and switch plates, and apply painter’s tape along trim, ceilings, and window frames.
Step 2: Repair and Clean the Walls
Fill nail holes and small cracks with spackle, let it dry, then sand smooth. Wipe the walls down with a damp cloth to remove dust and grease. Paint sticks poorly to dirty surfaces.
Step 3: Prime When Needed
Primer helps when you are covering a dark color, painting over bare drywall or patched areas, or dealing with stains. It improves coverage and can save you a coat of paint.
Step 4: Cut In First
Use the angled brush to paint a strip about two to three inches wide along the ceiling, corners, and trim. Doing this before rolling helps the finish blend evenly.
Step 5: Roll the Walls
Load the roller moderately and work in sections of roughly three-foot squares, using overlapping “W” or “M” patterns. Keep a wet edge to avoid visible lap marks, and finish each section by lightly rolling in one direction.
Step 6: Apply a Second Coat
Allow the first coat to dry according to the label directions, then apply a second coat for deeper, more uniform color.
Step 7: Clean Up
Remove tape while the paint is slightly tacky to avoid peeling, usually within an hour of finishing. Wash brushes and rollers promptly and seal leftover paint for future touch-ups.
Choosing a Finish
Flat or matte hides imperfections and suits ceilings and low-traffic rooms. Eggshell and satin are durable and easy to clean, which makes them good for living areas and hallways. Semi-gloss is best for trim, doors, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Take your time with prep and good tools, and your finished room will look polished and professional.