7 painting hacks: how a plastic bag and a paint edger might save the day
Painting may seem easy, but small mistakes can come back to haunt you. These seven lessons—ones I’ve learned the hard way—will help you avoid mess and save you stress, writes digital content developer Anni Alatalo.
I’ve been renovating homes for nearly 20 years, and painting has stayed one of my favorite tasks. Changing the color of a wall, cabinet, or even the stairs instantly transforms a home’s atmosphere. Often, painting is also a more affordable option than wallpapering.
Painting has the added benefit that if the color ends up being off, you can always paint over it. And everyone makes mistakes: I’ve slipped up in dozens of unexpected ways when I haven’t taken the time to protect surfaces properly or have tried to make do with inadequate tools.
It’s a common misconception that painting is a quick, easy renovation anyone can handle. While that’s partly true, it still requires careful planning, time, and effort. Paint isn’t your only expense either—you’ll also need brushes, rollers, tape, and other supplies.
When a friend asked for painting tips on social media, I realized I’d collected quite a few lessons over the years that aren’t obvious to everyone. Here are my suggestions if you’re picking up a roller:
1. Paint alone isn’t enough
Once you have your paint, you’ll still need an assortment of brushes, a roller and extension pole, a paint tray, a stir stick, a ladder, protective paper, painter’s tape, a damp microfiber cloth for wiping up spills, gloves, good lighting, any necessary cleaning tools and supplies, and some clothes that can handle a few splatters.
- Always stir the paint thoroughly before use. Any sturdy, clean stick will do.
- You’ll need good work gloves. Tasks like handling rollers, opening cans, and other renovation jobs are much tidier with gloves on. Don’t use dirty gloves, and don’t touch a freshly painted wall while wearing them.
- A paint edger is a great helper. Get a separate edger and spare pad for each paint color. Nothing is worse than having the old shade from your last project transfer from the edger onto your freshly painted surface.
- If you’re renovating a space with no lights, bring a work lamp or other bright lights. It’s surprisingly hard to see what you’ve already painted if the room has shadows or dusk sets in. A headlamp is a good backup, especially for those who can’t bring themselves to stop early.
- And a proper ladder is essential. Don’t wobble on a kitchen chair; invest in a reliable stepladder so you can reach the ceiling line safely without accidentally leaning on a freshly painted wall.
It’s surprisingly hard to see what you’ve already painted if the room has shadows or dusk sets in.
2. Prep thoroughly
Get plenty of protective paper and tape. Clean the surfaces, protect the floors, and tape off the edges. Remove trim, hooks, shelves, artwork, and electrical outlet covers.
Even if you think you won’t make a mess, you will. I’ve made all the mistakes: I’ve left a dresser in place and ended up with paint splatters on it, tripped over items while holding a roller, tracked paint across the floor, and spread paint droplets from one room to another on the soles of my shoes. Taking measures to protect everything is simply the smart move.
3. A plastic bag is handy
Line your paint tray with a plastic bag so it stays clean and ready to use on your next project. If you’re painting for multiple days, tape a new bag on the tray each time. That way, any old paint stuck to the tray won’t flake off into your fresh coat. Of course, you can wash the tray too, but the bag trick is more convenient.
Your brushes and rollers will stay usable if you wrap them tightly in a plastic bag overnight. That way, they won’t dry out, and you can continue without a big cleaning session the next day.
4. Paint in order and take your time
Always start by edging the corners and borders, then paint the larger surfaces. The roller should have enough paint, but don’t press it into the wall. If it glides smoothly, there’s enough paint. Use long, steady strokes. As you near the final look, limit back-and-forth movements. The last strokes should go in the same direction—either top to bottom or bottom to top—for a smooth finish.
Paints have some surprising risks, and some can ignite by themselves.
5. Be prepared for surprises
A paint color often looks different after the first coat than you anticipated. Don’t worry, because a dark shade may need three coats. Let each coat dry for the time recommended on the can. Only evaluate the result after you’ve painted enough coats and let them fully dry.
6. Remove tape at the right time
The best time to pull off the tape is when the paint is still wet. If the paint has formed a “bridge” over the tape, carefully cut it with a sharp craft knife before taking the tape off.
7. Take care of your tools and safety
Paints can have some surprising hazards, and certain types can spontaneously combust if damp rags or protective paper are left balled up. Let everything dry thoroughly before taking them to a waste facility. Wash brushes and rollers right away or let them dry fully before disposing of them properly. If there’s leftover paint in the can, seal it tightly or let it dry completely before recycling.
