Painting Tips

Many do-it-yourselfers decide to undertake painting projects on their own, but end up not completely satisfied with the outcome. For more professional-looking results, try some of these painting tips.

What many people don't know is that the most important factor in a successful paint job is how well you prepare for it. You should plan an entire day for your preparation work. Be sure you repair the surface material and use TSP to clean the surface before you begin. Also, lightly sand the whole surface and remove any dust.

If you need to remove mildew, use one part bleach to three parts soapy water. If the surface has any holes patch them. Plan ahead to you allow enough time for the patch to dry before you begin painting.

Here are some of the basic painting supplies you'll need to get started with your painting project:

If you are using latex paint, use a synthetic polyester/nylon paintbrush. If you are using an oil-based paint, use a bristle paintbrush.

Depending on the material you are working with, you may need to use a primer before you begin with your surface color. If the surface is painted and in good condition you don't need to use a primer. You can simply clean and de-gloss the surface. However, if you are applying a light color over a dark do use a primer; if applying a dark color over an existing light color, use a tinted primer. Use of primer in these situations will reduce the number of top coats you'll need to apply.

For painted surfaces in poor condition, you may need to remove the surface with a chemical stripper or sander. Once the surface is removed, apply a primer and then your surface paint. Fresh drywall or wood will also require a primer. If you are painting metal, use an anti-corrosive primer.

If you are painting an entire room, paint the ceiling first using a roller on a pole, then cut-in the corners. Apply wall paint with a roller. Then use a brush with an angled sharp edge for the trim.

Give your walls some extra zing with a faux painting technique. With a few simple tools, you can add grain, texture, patterns, and even crackling to your walls. Here are some popular painting techniques to explore:

In general, strong reds, oranges and darker colors close in a room and make it appear smaller. Whites, blues, greens, purples and lighter shades tend to make a room appear larger. Using white or off-white for your ceiling will give the appearance of height while ceilings painted a darker color will appear lower.

If you are using a chair rail painting technique, put the darker color on the bottom and keep it below chair back height (about 32 to 36 inches from the floor). This will give the lighter paint color dominance and give the room an open feeling.

To clean up latex paint, simply use warm water. For oil-based paints, you'll need to purchase a solvent or paint thinner. For easier cleaning, soak your brush or roller right after you finish painting in either the appropriate solution. Before washing the brush, hold it between your palms and spin it to shake off the excess water or solvent.

Next, wash the brush or roller in warm, soapy water. Rinse it well. If using a brush, try to reshape it. Hang the brush or roller up to dry. Store only when completely dry. Replacing a paintbrush in the original packaging will help it maintain its shape. Store rollers and brushes in a plastic bag in a dry place.