There’s something truly magical about a fresh coat of paint—it has the power to transform a room instantly, breathing new life and energy into your space. But getting that flawless, professional-looking finish? That can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between the prep work, the elbow grease, and the technique involved, a painting project can quickly seem daunting.
Fear not! With a few practical steps and insider knowledge from the experts, your next DIY paint job can be smooth, enjoyable, and totally successful. Remember, with the right approach, DIY projects can look just as polished as those done by the pros.
Here are nine expert tips to help you nail your next DIY painting project with confidence.
1. Prep Like a Pro
The secret to a stunning paint finish lies in the prep. Before you even open that can, make sure your surface is clean, dry, and free from dust or debris. Sand down rough patches, fill any holes or cracks, and prime your surface to create the perfect base.
Skipping these vital steps might save time upfront but will cost you more in the long run with uneven finishes and premature wear. Take the time to prep properly—it pays off in the final result.
2. Invest in Quality Tools
Your tools matter—big time. Good brushes, rollers, and trays aren’t just luxuries; they’re essentials.
Mark O’Connor, a painting expert at Monarch, warns, “Cheap brushes tend to shed bristles and leave streaks, while low-quality rollers can give you an uneven finish that takes longer to fix.”
High-quality tools pick up and distribute paint evenly, allowing for a smoother, faster finish. They also make your job easier—cutting clean edges and applying paint uniformly. And don’t forget a paint tray with a liner; it keeps things tidy and efficient.
Before you start, take a moment to research the best tools for your project—Monarch’s product finder is a great place to start.
3. Choose the Right Paint for the Job
Not all paints are created equal. Selecting the right paint type is crucial for durability and finish.
“For ceilings, opt for a flat finish,” Mark advises, “as it helps hide imperfections like plaster joints or filler marks.”
Walls typically do well with flat or low-sheen water-based paints, while woodwork needs tougher, more durable paints that withstand wear and tear.
Gone are the days when oil-based enamels were your only option for wood. Nowadays, water-based enamels offer quicker drying times, less odor, and they won’t yellow over time—making them a smart, modern choice.
Choosing the right paint ensures your beautiful finish lasts longer and looks fresh for years to come.
4. Calculate How Much Paint You Need
Running out of paint mid-project is frustrating, but buying too much wastes money. Do your homework.
Measure your space in square meters, then double that to account for two coats—usually a must for a flawless finish.
Remember that one litre of paint covers about 14 to 16 square meters. For example, a standard 3 x 3 meter room with four walls will typically need around 4 litres of paint.
Planning your paint quantity carefully will save you last-minute runs to the store.
5. Master Your Tools
How you use your brushes and rollers can make all the difference.
Before painting, soak brushes in water for 10 minutes and shake off excess moisture. For rollers, run them under the tap for a couple of minutes, squeeze out water, then roll them on a clean wall until dry.
When loading paint, only dip the brush about an inch deep—too much paint will drip and dry unevenly.
For rollers, roll them in the paint tray repeatedly until they are evenly coated.
This small prep helps ensure an even application and a flawless finish.
6. Protect Floors and Furniture
Painting can be messy, so shield your floors and furniture before you start.
Use drop sheets or plastic sheeting, and move furniture out if you can. If not, cover it with plastic or old sheets to keep paint splatters at bay.
Taking this step means less cleanup and less heartache when an accidental drip happens.
7. Slow Down and Take Your Time
Rushing is the enemy of a beautiful paint job. Mark warns, “Hurrying leads to sloppy work and ultimately costs more time and money fixing mistakes.”
Patience pays off—invest time in prepping well and applying paint carefully. The result will be a finish you can be proud of for years.
8. Clean Your Tools Properly
Don’t skimp on cleaning. Thoroughly rinse brushes and rollers in warm, soapy water until all paint is gone. Let them dry completely before storing to keep them in good condition for your next project.
Taking care of your tools means they’ll perform better and last longer.
9. Enjoy the Process
Painting can be surprisingly therapeutic. Put on your favorite music or podcast, invite a friend to help, and enjoy the transformation unfolding before your eyes.
Take pride in your work—you’re creating something beautiful with your own hands. Don’t hesitate to show off your freshly painted space!
With these expert tips in hand, your next DIY paint project is set for success. Roll up your sleeves, breathe in that fresh paint smell, and get ready to transform your space like a pro!