Learning a few interior painting tips and tricks can transform your room from a dull and inviting space to a bright and cozy one—quite important if you are not a professional painter.
Wall painting is not as simple as just slapping paint on the walls. There are several aspects—from the right colors to ensure a smooth and professional-looking finish to the type of paint—that you need to consider.
That said, if you are planning a DIY painting project, our professionals here at Arvada Painting will share expert tips and tricks that will help you achieve flawless results.
Let’s start.
Choose the Right Paint for Each Room
Wall paint comes in different textures. Depending on the room, as well as the ambiance you want to achieve, the type of paint you may need to use varies.
When choosing, we highly-recommend that you opt for high-quality paint from reputable brands. It may be costly upfront, but it offers better coverage and durability.
Here’s what you should consider:
| Paint Type | Ideal For |
| Flat or Matte Finish | Ideal for low-traffic areas like bedrooms and ceilings; It hides imperfections but can be difficult to clean. |
| Eggshell or Satin Finish | Great to use in living rooms, dining rooms, and hallways, It has subtle sheen and is easier to clean compared to flat paint. |
| Semi-gloss or Gloss Finish | Ideal paint for kitchen and bathroom walls. It is great for trim work as well, thanks to its high resistance to stains and moisture. |
Pick the Perfect Color Palette
Selecting the right colors can be overwhelming, especially for non-professional. Keeping a few key principles in mind will make the process easier.
We suggest you try a small test patch on your wall first and observe it over a few days in different lighting before choosing one.
Here are a few tips to try:
Tip #1: Use Light Colors to Open Up a Space. Soft neutrals, whites, and pastels make rooms look larger and more inviting.
Tip #2: Dark Colors Add Depth and Drama. Navy, charcoal, and deep greens create a cozy, sophisticated ambiance.
Tip #3: Consider Your Home’s Lighting. Natural light enhances colors, while artificial lighting can change their appearance. Always test paint swatches in different lighting conditions.
Prep Your Walls Like a Pro
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is skipping or rushing through the prep work. But proper preparation ensures a smooth and long-lasting result.
Here are a few tips to prepare your walls:
Tip #1: Clean the Walls. Dust, grease, and dirt can affect paint adhesion. Clean the walls using a mild detergent and water to wipe them down before painting.
Tip #2: Fill Cracks and Holes. Use spackling paste or joint compound to patch up imperfections, then sand the surface smooth.
Tip #3: Use Painter’s Tape. Protect trim, baseboards, and ceilings from accidental paint splatters. Invest in high-quality painter’s tape for clean lines.
Tip #4: Prime When Necessary. If you’re painting over a dark color or a newly patched area, use a primer to ensure even coverage.
Pro Tip: A tinted primer (instead of white) can help your final color pop and reduce the number of coats needed.
Master the Painting Technique
Even if you have the right tools and prep work done, improper technique can lead to streaks, roller marks, and uneven coverage. You may want to follow these steps for a professional-looking finish:
Tip #1: Start from the Top. Start painting from the ceiling down to avoid drips ruining freshly painted areas.
Tip #2: Use the “W” Technique. Professional painters have a painting technique called “W” technique. It is when you roll paint onto the wall in a “W” or “M” shape; then fill it in without lifting the roller.
Doing this technique ensures an even application.
Tip #3: Avoid Overloading Your Brush or Roller. Too much paint can lead to drips and streaks, while too little can result in uneven coverage.
Tip #4: Feather Out the Edges. Blend paint into previously painted areas while it’s still wet to avoid lap marks.
Speed Up Drying Time and Avoid Common Mistakes
Patience is key when painting, but a few hacks can help speed up drying time. Pro Tip: If you accidentally get paint on the ceiling or trim, use a damp cloth or baby wipe to clean it up before it dries.
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Tip #1: Use Fans and Open Windows. Proper ventilation helps paint dry faster and reduces fumes.
Tip #2: Thin Coats Are Better Than Thick Coats. Applying multiple thin layers prevents drips and speeds up drying.
Tip #3: Don’t Rush the Second Coat. Wait at least 2-4 hours between coats, depending on the paint type and humidity.
Clean Up Like a Pro
After all the hard work, don’t forget proper cleanup to keep your tools in great condition:
Tip #1: Store Paint Properly. Seal the lid tightly and store it in a cool, dry place for future touch-ups.
Tip #2: Wash Brushes and Rollers Immediately. Use warm, soapy water for latex paint or paint thinner for oil-based paint.
Tip #3: Dispose of Leftover Paint Responsibly. Check local regulations for proper disposal or donate unused paint to community projects.
Rather, Book a Professional Home Painter
Give your space a fresh, new look without the stress!
Interior painting is achievable with the proper prep work, tools, and techniques. We hope the tips and tricks our expert home painters shared will guide you through your DIY painting project—whether it is painting one room or the entire house.
Not confident enough to paint your space?
Arvada Paint Company can help. Our team offers interior and exterior painting, both for commercial and residential spaces. With 15 years of experience, we guarantee quality and long-lasting paint,
Call us now at (720) 403-2544 or send us a message.
