Learn How To Paint Like A Pro

Erin Ellwood
Aug 23, 2017 · 2 min read
Photo Credit: https://www.simonhome.com.au

Buy Quality Paint

In general, glossier paints are more stain-resistant and scrubbable. But a higher sheen also highlights any imperfections in the wall or in the paint job. The pros also agreed that using two coats of paint will result in the best-looking job. Don’t skimp on the coverage; if you’re covering more than 400 square feet per gallon, you’re spreading it too thin. Also, keep 1/4 to 1/2 gallon on hand for touch-ups.

Source: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/secrets-pro-painters


Prep the Surface

A successful paint job starts with properly preparing the surface you’re going to paint. That means you must scrape, sand, patch, and fill every hole, crack, dent, and surface imperfection. This isn’t the fun part of painting a room, but it is the most important part. No paint, regardless of its cost, color, thickness, or manufacturer’s claims, will hide a pockmarked or cracked surface.

Source: http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/how-to/g110/interior-painting-tips-how-to-paint-your-walls-like-a-pro/


Move Anything You Don’t Want Painted

You can’t paint a room without space to move around. If you’re going to be painting the ceiling in the room, then you have only a few items to move at this point; you can skip to the next step.

But most people who want to know how to paint a room usually are starting with the walls.

Furniture — Move the furniture away from those walls. Move everything out of the room (if possible), but at the very least, move everything to the center of the room.
Pictures — You’ll also want to remove all pictures, wall decorations, etc.
Plates — Take a small screwdriver and remove all the switch plates and outlet covers, leaving the screws screwed in place by a few threads after removing the covers. If you remove the screws, you’ll be sure to lose one. Place the covers into a bucket or drawer. If the covers were looking dingy, place them in a solution of soapy water to clean them while you’re painting. As for cracked or broken face plates, completely replace them.
Taping — Place a bit of blue masking tape on the outlets and switches. You don’t want to paint those by accident. If you don’t have blue tape, you should get some, or simply use regular masking tape.

Source: https://www.thespruce.com/learn-how-to-paint-a-room-like-a-pro-1822378


Prepare the Paint

Use a paint can opener to remove the lid. Then stir the paint well. You should stir it each time you need to pour paint into your pan or bucket, because the paint separates as it sits. Using the stir stick will ensure an even color and sheen across the wall.

Source: https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/73102139/list/houzz-tv-how-to-paint-a-wall-like-a-pro


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