Quick Answer: To paint a room well, move furniture and protect the floor, clean and repair the walls, apply painter’s tape, prime if needed, cut in around edges with a brush, roll the walls in sections and apply a second coat once the first is dry.
Painting a room is one of the most rewarding DIY projects. With good preparation and the right technique, you can get a clean, professional-looking finish.
What You Need
- Paint and primer
- Roller, roller tray and extension pole
- Angled brush for edges
- Painter’s tape and drop cloths
- Filler, putty knife and sandpaper
Step 1: Prepare the Room
Move furniture to the center and cover it. Lay drop cloths on the floor and remove outlet covers and switch plates.
Step 2: Clean and Repair the Walls
Wipe away dust and grease. Fill small holes and cracks, let the filler dry, then sand it smooth.
Step 3: Apply Painter’s Tape
Tape along trim, ceilings and window frames, pressing the edges firmly to prevent paint from seeping underneath.
Step 4: Prime If Needed
Use primer on new drywall, repaired patches, stains or when making a big color change, such as dark to light.
Step 5: Cut In the Edges
Use an angled brush to paint a strip along corners, edges and around trim where a roller cannot reach.
Step 6: Roll the Walls
Load the roller evenly and paint in sections using a W or M pattern, then fill in with straight strokes. Keep a wet edge to avoid visible lines.
Step 7: Apply a Second Coat
Let the first coat dry as directed on the can, then apply a second coat for even color.
Step 8: Remove Tape and Clean Up
Remove tape while the paint is still slightly soft for clean lines. Clean brushes and rollers right away.
Tips
- Open windows for ventilation.
- Buy a little extra paint for touch-ups later.
Conclusion
Careful preparation is the secret to a professional finish. Take your time with each step and your room will look fresh and clean.
