Most accents can simply be unscrewed and lifted off. Be sure to keep track of small pieces like faceplates and separator, and put the screws back where they belong. [2] X Research source Any accents that you’re unable to remove can be covered with painter’s tape later on.
Paint can be virtually impossible to get out of upholstered fabrics, so it’s a good idea to safeguard your furniture even if you think it’s a safe distance away from the wall. Unplug all electronics and relocate them somewhere where they won’t be damaged.
Pass up flimsy floor coverings like newsprint or bedsheets. These materials are usually too thin to stop wet paint from soaking through. [5] X Research source There’s no need to cover the entire floor. Just slide the drop cloth along as needed as you make your way from one end of the wall to the other.
Use a light touch—you just want to clean the wall off, not totally soak it. A small amount of diluted TSP (trisodium phosphate) will be useful for removing stuck-on dirt and grime from walls in dirtier areas like the kitchen or basement. [7] X Research source If there are any cracks or holes in the wall, fill those in before you prime or paint the wall. [8] X Expert Source Barry ZakarHandyman Expert Interview. 16 July 2020. You may also want to sand the wall before you paint it. This will help the paint adhere to the wall. [9] X Expert Source Barry ZakarHandyman Expert Interview. 16 July 2020.
You can pick up painter’s tape from any home improvement store, as well as most major supermarkets and pharmacies. Look for tape in different sizes. This will give you more flexibility over how to apply it and provide more coverage to keep paint from accidentally getting on other parts of the wall.
Always use a primer when painting interior walls. Not only will it help the paint stick, it will also cut down on the number of coats you have to apply to achieve the same depth of color. [13] X Research source Primer is especially useful when painting a lighter color over a darker color. If you’re repainting a wall and you’re using a paint and primer in one, you probably don’t need to use a separate primer. However, if you’re painting a large section of wall that’s never been painted, prime it first. [14] X Expert Source Barry ZakarHandyman Expert Interview. 16 July 2020.
Try not to leave any bare patches, as this type of inconsistency can affect the final color of the paint.
Apply the primer using long, smooth strokes, then smooth it out by brushing it in multiple directions. Remember to use your painter’s tape for more precise lines and angles.
Painting over wet primer can cause clouding and smudging, effectively ruining the coat. Keeping your work area ventilated by opening a window or running an overhead fan or air conditioner will help the primer dry faster.
Stock up on enough paint to be able to finish the project without running out. A single gallon is usually enough to cover about 400 square feet of wall space. [19] X Research source
To cut down on sloshing and splattering, pour the paint into a larger bucket before you begin mixing. Mixing your paint prior to starting a big project is essential, whether you’re using a brand new can or one that’s been sitting on the shelf for a while. [21] X Research source
Painting 2-3” outward from the trim will allow you to easily go over the rest using a roller. [23] X Research source Pause periodically to rewet your brush when your strokes become faint. It’s a good idea to start by cutting in around the edges because this is the most difficult part of painting. If you do it first, you’re still fresh, so you’re less likely to make mistakes. [24] X Expert Source Barry ZakarHandyman Expert Interview. 16 July 2020.
An extended roller handle can help you reach the upper sections of the wall nearest to the ceiling. Make sure to overlap the edges while painting. [26] X Research source Only use as much paint as you need to cover the primer. Oversaturating your roller can result in unsightly drips in the top coat. [27] X Research source
Most walls shouldn’t require more than a couple coats of paint. However, extra coats may be useful for walls with coarse textures or when painting over a darker shade. [29] X Research source To avoid leaving obvious seams, make sure you go over the entire wall, including the area around the trim.
It usually takes somewhere between 24-48 hours for interior paint to cure completely. Don’t forget to remove the painter’s tape once you’re satisfied with the look of the wall. [31] X Research source
