Assuming you have come to Your
Basic Painting Supplies page because
you have already chosen your paint
color and are ready to get started.
If you are not yet that far along in your
"How to paint a room" process than we
would suggest you visit our Color page
first to get some basic color guidelines
about the mood, feel and size perceptions you can create with that "just right" color.
That said let's get started by listing your basic supplies.
Prepping for the Job. Getting ready to paint a room may take longer than painting the room itself but the time invested in this process will save time, money and unneeded steps or mistakes.
How To Paint A Room
Your Basic Painting Supplies
Let's start with the Basic Supplies:
Brushes:
Though brushes can be literally "a dime a dozen" we urge you not to buy the cheapest brush at the hardware store. Invest in good quality, synthetic-bristle brushes because they hold more paint and create a better controlled edge when needed.
To test the quality of your brush - tug on the bristles and if more than two bristles come out...then you've got a cheap one - keep shopping. There really is nothing worse than trying to remove sticky bristles off your wall!
Rollers:
Use short nap rollers (yellow) for smooth surfaces. Long nap rollers (orange) for rough. Select the width of the roller based on the size of the project. Use the simple squeeze test to determine quality of the roller. The quicker it returns to its original shape the better the roller. Another method of determining quality is to spread the nap, if you can see the cardboard core then you've got a cheapy, again keep shopping.
This tape - what's also known as a low-tack, quick-release tape, is used to prevent paint bleeding into and on trim, moldings, around windows, ceilings etc.
Blue tape is used for Latex paints and other water based finishes - Purple tape is specifically used for Alkyd finishes.
Drop Cloths:
An empty room is the ideal but with or without furniture a drop cloth is a must. You can find a variety of these ranging in price and style. Many people use plastic protection which is really not the best choice due to the fact the paint cannot be absorbed and ends up being tracked all over the room. The most inexpensive and best option is the 2 layer drop cloth...paper type fabric on top with a sheet of plastic underneath.
It's also a good idea to place a large trash can lined with a trash bag in the middle of the room just to contain whatever garbage may be generated as you are working.
It's also a good idea to place a large trash can lined with a trash bag in the middle of the room just to contain whatever garbage may be generated as you are working.
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