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When it comes to repainting a room, or even painting one for the first time, you often hear or say yourself, "I just can't do it like the pros." Unfortunately, paying someone to paint a small bedroom could cost you a fortune, which you shouldn't spend on something you can do! Save your money for the little details, like matching curtains, new flooring and accessories by following these 10 tips for painting like a professional!
#1 - Always Use Primer
This is one step many individuals opt not to do - big mistake! Primer provides a fresh clean surface for the paint to adhere to and allows the true color of the paint to come through!
#2 - Professional Supplies
Spend a little money to get some good quality supplies. It is recommended that you use an edge pad for painting around straight surfaces, such as ceiling edges, corners and door frames. Painters tape also works well.
#3 - Clean Before You Paint
Many people think they don't need to wipe the walls before they paint, as they're going to cover up the marker lines from when the kids were drawing, but this is not true. Paint sticks to the walls much better when they are clean, not shiny (use a light grade sandpaper to remove the shine of old glossy paint) and in good condition.
#4 - Be Prepared
Having all your supplies, include the amount of paint is essential. This way, once you get started, you don't have to stop and run to the store for something else. Many professional painters recommend that you have approximately 1 gallon for every 400 square feet. However, if you are painting over textured or rough surfaces, you may need more.
#5 - Paint On Dry Days
Painting on days where the weather is cooperating can be beneficial. Not only will your paint dry quicker, but it will dry. This is particularly true with water-based paints.
#6 - Scrape Away
If the paint on your walls is starting to flake off, it's recommended that you scrape it off using a paint scraper. You should then sand the surface smooth, prime - of course - and then paint!
#7 - Keep Going
As you are painting, if you see a spot you missed, don't go back over it once it has started to dry. This can create unwanted color streaks or paint brush or roller lines in the paint.
#8 - Prepare Your Painting Room
To keep the things in the room that don't need painted from being painted, cover them up. This includes the floor - put down a drop cloth. Also, sandwich bags work great for covering up door handles, but remember to tape them and don't forget to remove your outlet covers and light switch plates.
#9 - Out With The Brush - In With The Roller
Using a roller for wall surfaces will help you get the job done faster and it does a better job than a paintbrush in an amateur's hands. However, paintbrushes do work well for details - such as My Wonderful Walls Stencil Kits.
#10 - Be Patient
If you want to add a second coat of paint, that's fine. Here's the deal - wait until the first coat is dry, or else you could end up pulling off the paint you've already applied!
Hopefully these tips will have you on your way to a beautiful finished wall mural in no time! Happy painting!
