10 Tips For Painters

Painting your own space can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to refresh your home. However, if you’re new to painting, it can also be a bit daunting. To help you get started, here are 10 essential painting tips for beginners. These tips will ensure you achieve a professional-looking finish and avoid common mistakes.

1. Choose the Right Paint

Understand Paint Types
Different paints are suitable for different surfaces and uses. Latex paint is water-based and easy to clean, making it ideal for most interior walls. Oil-based paint, though more durable, is harder to clean up and is best for trim and high-traffic areas.

Select the Appropriate Finish
Paint finishes range from matte to high-gloss. Matte finishes hide imperfections well but are less durable. Satin and eggshell finishes are great for living areas, while semi-gloss and high-gloss are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability and ease of cleaning.

2. Prepare Your Surface

Clean the Walls
Dirt, grease, and dust can prevent paint from adhering properly. Clean your walls with a mild detergent and let them dry completely before painting.

Repair Any Damage
Fill holes and cracks with spackle or putty, then sand smooth. This ensures a flat, even surface for painting.

3. Use Primer

Prime Your Surface
Primer helps paint adhere better and provides a uniform base, especially on new drywall or patched areas. It can also block stains and cover dark colours, ensuring the true colour of your paint comes through.

4. Invest in Quality Tools

Use Good Brushes and Rollers
High-quality brushes and rollers might cost more upfront but they apply paint more evenly and save you time in the long run. A good brush will hold more paint and provide a smoother finish.

5. Protect Your Space

Cover Furniture and Floors
Use drop cloths to protect your floors and furniture from paint drips and splatters is one of the most obvious tips for painting. Painter’s tape is useful for protecting trim, windows, and fixtures.

6. Mix Paint Thoroughly

Stir Paint Well
Before you start painting, stir your paint thoroughly to ensure an even colour. If you’re using multiple cans of the same colour, mix them together in a larger bucket to avoid colour inconsistencies.

7. Use the Right Technique

Cut in Before Rolling
Start by “cutting in” with a brush around the edges of walls, windows, and doors. This means painting the borders first. Then, use a roller to fill in the larger areas. This technique ensures you cover all areas and achieve a smooth finish.

Roll Paint in a W Pattern
When using a roller, apply paint in a “W” pattern on the wall. This helps distribute the paint evenly and prevents streaks.

8. Apply Multiple Coats

Don’t Skimp on Coats
One coat of paint often isn’t enough to achieve a professional finish. Apply at least two coats, allowing the first coat to dry completely before applying the second.

9. Maintain a Wet Edge

Work Quickly to Avoid Lap Marks
Keep a wet edge by painting in small sections and working quickly. This prevents lap marks, which occur when paint dries too quickly and overlaps, leaving visible lines.

10. Clean Up Properly

Clean Your Tools Immediately
Wash brushes and rollers immediately after use to keep them in good condition. Latex paint can be cleaned with soap and water, while oil-based paint requires mineral spirits or paint thinner.

Store Leftover Paint Properly
Seal paint cans tightly and store them in a cool, dry place. Properly stored paint can last for years and be used for touch-ups or future projects.

Let A-Z Decorators Help You Achieve Perfect Results

While DIY painting can be fun and rewarding, sometimes it’s best to call in the professionals to ensure a flawless finish. At A-Z Decorators, we offer expert painting services to help you achieve the perfect look for your home. If you need professional advice or painting services, contact us here to schedule a consultation.

For more painting tips and inspiration, check out our blog on How Do Painters and Decorators Prepare Surfaces? and read about How to Choose the Perfect Paint Colour for a Home?. You can also visit our gallery for visual inspiration and to see examples of our previous work.