Decorate ⁄  Painting

Top 12 painting tips

Prepare the walls and protect surfaces to minimise mess and get a perfect finish.
By Handyman Magazine

Nothing offers as much value for money as paint when it comes to transforming your home, and it is an easy job to DIY.

Painting is time-consuming, so it can be tempting to take shortcuts, but cutting corners will cost you in the long run with a poor result.

Preparation is the key to a good paint job, so make sure the walls are clean, flaky paint is removed and trim is sanded before you even get out the paintbrushes and rollers.

Here’s how to get a professional finish and make painting a room a much easier task.

11. Remove masking tape cleanly

11. Remove masking tape cleanly
Handyman Australia

When paint dries, it forms a film between the wall and the masking tape, which can cause the paint to peel when the tape is removed.

To remove it neatly, use a sharp utility knife to cut along the film, then pull the tape away from the wall at a 45° angle.

Advertisement

12. Preserve brushes

12. Preserve brushes
Handyman Australia

Cleaning your brushes properly will keep them in good shape for the next time.

For water-based paint, wipe any excess paint on the rim of the tin.

Rinse the brush in lukewarm water, then dab onto a piece of mild soap and work up a lather.

Rinse and repeat until the water runs clear. Reshape the bristles, then wrap the brush in paper towel.

Leave the brush to dry at room temperature, making sure it isn’t resting on its head.

For oil-based paint, soak the brush in paint thinner overnight, then leave to dry on newspaper.

Sign up for emails

SIGN UP NOW