A new coat of paint can refresh and revitalize any room in your
house. Paint is also a very cost effective way to change the
look of a room. The best part about interior painting is that
almost anyone can do it--all you need is the right material and
a little bit of knowledge.
Painting Supplies
Your supply needs will vary depending upon the room that you are
painting and the type of paint that you are using, but here is a
basic list to get you started:
* Paint. After you choose a color, you will also need to choose
a finish. The finish determines how shiny the paint will be.
Choices include flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss.
Flat finish is hard to wipe clean and should only be used in low
traffic areas that will not attract dirt. Satin, eggshell, and
semi-gloss finishes are easy to wipe clean and can be used
almost anywhere. Gloss finish is very shiny and is best reserved
for small areas such as trim or molding.
* Paint Applicators. Paint rollers and brushes are necessities.
A good paint roller can paint an entire room. Choose one that
has a fair amount of nap to it-- the thicker the better. When it
comes to brushes, everyone has their own individual preference.
A small angle brush works well for trim and corners. A three
inch flat brush or a paint pad will work well for the places
that a paint roller can not reach.
* Miscellaneous Supplies. In addition to paint and paint
applicators, you may also need drop cloths, cleaning rags, paint
trays, spackling, sandpaper, and a putty knife (if your walls
are damaged and need repair), and a ladder or stepladder. The
ladder will need to be sturdy and stable to support your
movements. Try choosing a ladder with a wide base or a flared
bottom.
Painting Tips
When painting, the most important thing you can do is take your
time. If you move too fast, things could get sloppy. Also
important, is the prep work. Your painting project will go much
smoother if you are properly prepared prior to painting. Here
are some tips that can help:
* Make sure that you have everything you need by organizing all
of your supplies before you start painting.
* Protect your furniture from paint splatters by moving it or
covering it up.
* Use low-tack masking tape to tape off baseboards and trim.
Remove the tape before the paint dries.
* Paint the walls before painting trim or woodwork.
* Do not apply a second coat of paint until the first coat has
dried.
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