1. Decide on a color scheme for the room/exterior.
Choosing the right colors for any home painting project is key to achieving the desired look and feel. Consider both the mood you want to set as well as how colors complement each other. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all of the available options, start with a few simple color swatches and experiment with different combinations.
2. Gather all necessary painting supplies (e.g., brushes, rollers, trays, ladders).
Essential painting supplies include brushes, rollers, trays, ladders, drop cloths and painter’s tape. It is also important to have a variety of clean rags for wiping off excess paint or for cleaning up spills. Quality paint products will ensure that the end result looks professional and lasts longer.
3. Prepare surfaces (e.g., clean and repair walls, patch holes and cracks).
It is essential to prepare any surface before applying paint by removing old flaking paint and patching holes or cracks in the wall or ceiling. If you are working on an exterior project, be sure to inspect the area for signs of decay such as rot or mildew.
4. Select quality paint products.
Using a good quality paint will ensure that the job turns out better and lasts longer than if you use a low-quality product. Invest in top-of-the-line paints, primers and other supplies to make sure you get the best results possible.
5. Choose the right finish and sheen level to suit your needs.
The finish and sheen level of your paint is important for both aesthetic purposes as well as ensuring that it stands up to wear and tear over time. Flat or matte finishes are great for hiding imperfections in walls while semi-gloss or gloss finishes are ideal for areas that need to be wiped down often such as bathrooms or kitchens.
6. Cover furniture and floors with plastic or drop cloths.
To protect your furniture and flooring from paint splatters and spills, cover them with plastic sheets or drop cloths. Be sure to secure the edges with painter's tape so that they don't move around while you are painting.
7. Test colors in an inconspicuous area first (e.g., behind a door or near a window sill).
Before committing to a particular color scheme, test it out in a small area such as behind a door or near a window sill. This will give you an idea of how the colors look together before taking on the whole project.
8. Apply primer if needed.
Some surfaces may require priming before applying paint, especially if the surface is unfinished wood or if the previous paint job was done a long time ago. Primer helps the paint adhere better and will ensure that your end result looks professional.
9. Use painter’s tape to mask off areas where you don’t want any paint to go.
Painter's tape is essential for protecting areas such as trim, moldings or windowsills from accidental brush strokes. Be sure to press down firmly on the edges of the tape so that no paint can seep underneath.