Paint Like a Pro: DIY Painting Tips & Tricks 

Equipment you’ll need

Durable equipment is essential for making your painting project successful, reducing costs and ensuring longevity. The equipment you will need to paint a wall includes: 

• Paint
• Primer
• Paint brushes
• Paint rollers
• A paint tray
• Masking tape
• Dust sheets or protective film

Step-by-step guide to your DIY painting project

Once you have the required painting equipment, it’s time to begin your DIY paint job. We will provide you with a step-by-step guide to ensure you have the painting tips you need to avoid common mistakes while achieving results you’re happy with. These instructions provide a general guide to painting a wall and should be adapted based on factors such as the condition of your walls and room. 

Step 1: Prepare your space

Properly preparing your space before painting is essential to prevent any damage. Cover your furniture and flooring with dust sheets and move furniture out of the room entirely if possible. Remove any wall décor, switches and plug sockets before you begin painting. Make sure you keep windows open for ventilation. Taking these steps will protect your home furnishings, creating a more efficient painting environment. 

Step 2: Prepare walls

Dust and dirt on your walls can prevent paint from sticking properly, so it’s essential to prepare your walls before painting. Clean your walls with a damp sponge and mild soap, then let them dry completely. Fill in any holes or cracks to create a smooth wall surface. The condition of the wall will dictate how much preparation is needed. Apply masking tape onto skirting boards, trims and ceilings to create sharp lines and protect your surfaces from paint bleed.

Step 3: Prime your walls

Priming your walls before painting can improve the longevity, finish and adhesion of your paint job. Check your product label carefully, as some paints come with a built-in primer. Primer reduces the chances of your paint peeling and chipping over time. It effectively blocks previous paint, which is especially useful if you’re painting over a dark coloured wall, reducing the number of coats required.

Step 4: Begin painting

After completing the above steps, you’re ready to start painting your wall. Begin by stirring the paint and continue to do so throughout the process to keep the colour consistent. Use long, even strokes and paint from top to bottom for a professional finish. Avoid pressing too hard with your roller or brush, as this can cause streaks and uneven coverage. After applying your first coat, allow the paint to dry before you begin applying the second. You will need at least two coats of paint. 

Step 5: Tidy up

Once you have finished painting, remove the masking tape while the paint is still slightly wet to prevent peeling. Wash your brushes and rollers right away with soap and water, and seal your paint cans. Your paint should be stored in a cool and dry place to preserve its quality for future touch-ups. After your walls are completely dry, remove dust sheets from the furniture and reattach any wall fittings you had removed. You have now successfully learnt how to paint a wall like a pro!

Discover painting equipment with IronmongeryDirect

You now have a step-by-step guide and the painting tips required to successfully paint a wall like a professional. All that’s left to do is start the process and shop from our wide range of painting equipment. Transform your space with a selection of durable and cost-effective painting tools at IronmongeryDirect.

FAQs

Should I start with painting or flooring?

It’s generally best to paint a wall first before installing flooring to prevent damage to your floors. This also makes preparing and cleaning up easier, as you won’t have to worry about covering the floor. However, if you’re installing unfinished hardwood floors, they’re likely to need sanding and sealing. This could damage your painted walls, so you should install flooring first. 

Can I paint without a primer?

Yes, you can paint without a primer. This depends on the condition of your walls and the paint you’re using. If you’re unsure, it’s recommended to use primer for a smooth and long-lasting paint job.

When you can skip primer:

• If your surface is smooth and clean
• If you’re painting over a similar colour
• If the paint you’re using already includes a built-in primer

When you must use primer:

• When painting over wallpaper residue
• When painting glossy surfaces
• When making a drastic colour change
• When painting drywall

Is DIY painting easy?

With the correct approach, DIY painting can be easy. If you're properly preparing your surfaces and using an effective technique, you can achieve a professional finish. By following the steps outlined in our guide, you can avoid common mistakes when painting a wall, making your project easier.

Does painting yourself save money?

DIY painting is a cheaper alternative to hiring a professional, as you avoid paying labour costs. However, making mistakes can increase the overall cost of your project, so it’s important to follow each step carefully. If you’re willing to put in the effort and follow our painting tips, you can achieve a professional finish while saving money by completing the job yourself.

How to paint walls for beginners?

Painting walls as a beginner can feel intimidating, but with the right preparation, it can be a simple task. Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary equipment, such as paint brushes, rollers, and painter’s tape. Next, prepare your room and walls by cleaning surfaces and filling in any holes. Apply any primer to your walls if required. When you're ready to paint, use long and even strokes with your paint brush and roller, working your way from top to bottom. After applying a couple of coats of paint, clean up and admire your freshly painted walls!

How can I avoid paint streaks and roller marks?

To avoid paint streaks and roller marks, it’s essential to use high-quality paint rollers and paint brushes. Apply even coats of paint, and be careful not to overload your paint brush or roller with too much paint. By working in small sections, allowing paint to dry between coats, and maintaining constant pressure, you will successfully paint your walls without streaks and roller marks. 

What tools do I need for a professional-looking paint job?

The tools you use play an important role in achieving a professional-looking job. Along with high-quality paint, you need paint brushes, paint rollers, a paint tray, and masking tape to create clean lines and a smooth application. At IronmongeryDirect, we stock an extensive range of paint supplies to ensure you have everything you need to complete your DIY paint project and achieve a professional-looking finish.