DIY painting tips

For one reason or another you have decided that you want to redecorate part or all of your home – maybe you’ve become bored with its present look, maybe you are looking to sell it, or maybe the present state of decoration leaves much to be desired. You’re probably a newcomer to DIY painting so here are a few tips.

Let’s start with a few DIY painting tips about the equipment you are likely to need. Here is a list

• Paint
• Primer (optional – if necessary – our representative will advise you)
• Paint Brushes (suggest 1 wide - 3 inch and 1 narrow - 1 inch for "cut in" and trim)
• Paint Roller
• Extension Pole (for ceilings and high walls)
• Paint Tray (metal is best)
• Polyfilla
• Putty Knife (2 inch, 4 inch, or 6 inch, depending on size of holes)
• Sandpaper
• Plastic or dust sheets to cover furniture and floors
• Masking tape

Now some DIY painting tips on what paint to purchase. When buying paint, the best way to get a good, professional look is to choose a colour that sets off some decorating aspect of the room. For example, pick a colour from a piece of furniture and select paint in the same shade to paint the walls. It’s a good idea to choose a slightly lighter shade than the color you want to complement. This generates a comforting backdrop that decorators and DIY painting tips frequently suggest. Purchase paint for your trim (skirting boards etc) that is a slightly different colour from that on the walls. Purchase the best quality paint that you can afford. Better paints will roll on with a beautiful finish, with little streaking, and you will not have to apply as many coats to get a complete coverage.

Depending on the paint finish you want, select:

• High or Semi Gloss, (shiny - great for bathrooms and kitchens, and wall areas you would like to be able to wash)
• Eggshell - a very slight gloss that dries with the beautiful texture of an eggshell
• Satin (a slight gloss finish between semi gloss and flat)
• Flat - no shine or gloss.

A few DIY painting tips on primer: If you are painting walls with a lighter colour than is on the walls at present you will need to prime the walls first. Primer has two functions, it covers up and neutralizes the darker color you are painting over, and it serves as an adhesive for the paint, allowing it to be applied evenly for a really smooth finish.

Preparation. A good DIY painting tip is to have all the walls cleaned, cracks and holes filled and sanded, light switch plates removed and masking tape applied before you even consider applying the first drop of paint. Only after you have finished applying all paint to the walls should you then consider starting on the trimming, where it is best to use gloss paint applied in horizontal paint. If you have any other questions regarding redecorating, one of our dealers will be happy to see you.