Painting is one of those love it or hate it projects. Some people find it fun and enjoyable, while others would rather be doing anything else. While in some cases hiring a professional is best, like a tight timeline or potentially dangerous area to reach, some people prefer just to do it themselves. If you’re willing to put in the effort, why not love the results? By following a few simple tips and tricks even someone with very little painting experience can paint like a professional.
1. Don't Compromise on Quality
You often get what you pay for when it comes to paint. Going with a low-quality product or attempting to stretch a can of paint to avoid having to purchase more will ultimately leave you unsatisfied with the result and you may need to redo the project. If you’re flexible on the start date of your painting project and on a budget, keep an eye out for sales or promotions on higher quality brands to pay less without compromising quality.
2. Work with the Right Tools
Just as you get what you pay for with paint, this too is often the case with supplies. Be cautious of going to “budget friendly” with painter’s tape or brushes. Poor quality tape will allow the paint to seep underneath or can be challenging to remove. A poor-quality brush can leave behind unwanted bristles on your paint job. For a professional result it’s worth investing in quality supplies and properly maintaining them between projects.
3. Pick the Right Paint for the Project
When choosing a paint, you need to consider more than just colour. In addition to selecting the finish (eggshell, satin, etc.) you’ll need to ensure you select the right kind of paint based on its purpose. For example, if painting a bathroom, you’ll want to select a paint specifically formulated for this application that can hold up in more humid environments.
4.Test Before Committing
You’ve done your research and have decided on a specific trending colour. Even though you’re keen to get started, save yourself from a potential waste and opt to purchase a tester before bringing home a whole gallon of paint. Better yet, purchase a few testers in varying shades. If you don’t test beforehand it may be difficult for the gallon of paint you aren’t in love with to be corrected and “money back” guarantees can take time. Be sure to test your paint in a few different areas throughout the space and observe them over a period of time so you can ensure you love the colour during the day and at night.
5. Prep Properly
Beginning with a perfect canvas will help you achieve a flawless end result! Before jumping into applying paint be sure to give yourself time to adequately prep the walls. Assess the room and properly fill in any holes or cracks and sand away any bumps. Run a damp rag over the wall to remove any surface dust or dirt. Dust baseboards and trim to help painter’s tape do its job. Take the time to prep properly as these little things can become a big challenge to correct once you’ve painted.
6. Consider Primer
Primer can help to provide you with a uniform canvas for your colour. In addition to helping with coverage when transitioning from a dark colour to a light colour, primer is especially helpful if you’re planning to paint an area where the walls have been exposed to other elements, such as grease on the walls of a kitchen. Some paint may claim to be a “Paint + Primer”, but that isn’t always the case. It’s best to ask an expert who is familiar with the brand you’re purchasing. The paint you’ve selected may be sufficient without primer for your specific project.
7. Always Stir
When paint sits in the can, it can begin to separate. Don’t forget to always stir well prior to starting your project and between starting a new coat. This will ensure the paint is properly mixed and you’ll be applying the product evenly.
8. Ensure proper ventilation
Although there are many more zero VOC and low odor paint options available on the market, many paints still contain toxins that can create harmful fumes. It’s always recommended to ensure you have proper ventilation in the area you are painting in. Keeping doors open, running a fan or timing your project so that you can comfortably open windows are all great options to help with airflow.
9. Perfect your Technique
When it comes to painting like a professional, technique is key. When painting the trim or “cutting” a wall with a brush be sure not to use too much paint and aim for longer strokes. When rolling be sure not to apply too much pressure as this can create frustrating lines. With a little practice you’ll be able to perfect your technique and avoid these common mistakes.
10. Keep a Clean Work Area
This may sound like an easy tip, but it is easier said than done! Keeping a clean work area is critical, because things can get messy fast and paint is not easy to remove. In addition to covering floors and wearing clothing you aren’t too concerned about, be sure to keep the floor space free of unneeded items, like tape, roller polls or extra trays you aren’t using. It is especially helpful to have limited obstacles when maneuvering a ladder or step stool. Regardless of how careful you may be, little messes are inevitable! Always keep a wet rag handy to quickly address a potential drip or splatter.
By following these tips and tricks you can avoid some common mistakes and love the results of your paint project!
Need help picking the perfect colour for your space? Emma and her team at Grassroots Design can help! They offer Paint Consultations and stock Farrow & Ball for all your paint and wallpaper projects.
grassrootsdesign.ca
info@grassrootsdesign.ca
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