Mastering Interior Walls: A DIY Painting Guide

Painting is the most cost-effective way to completely change the look and feel of a room. While it seems simple—dip roller, apply to wall—achieving a professional finish requires technique and the right preparation.

Preparation is 80% of the Work

If you start painting immediately, you've already failed. The difference between a landlord special and a pro job is prep.

1. Clean the Walls: Dust and grease prevent paint adhesion. Wash your walls with TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) or a mild detergent.
2. Patch and Sand: Fill nail holes with spackle. Once dry, sand them flush. Then, give the entire wall a light sanding with 120-grit paper to give the paint some "tooth" to grab onto.
3. Tape Correctly: Use high-quality painter's tape (like FrogTape). Press the edges down firmly with a putty knife to prevent bleed-through.

The "W" Technique

Don't just roll up and down randomly. To ensure even coverage:

1. Load your roller evenly. It should be saturated but not dripping.
2. Start in a corner and roll a large "W" shape on the wall (about 3x3 feet).
3. Without reloading, fill in the "W" with vertical strokes.
4. Finish with a light "backroll"—a single, smooth stroke from ceiling to floor to level the texture.

Cutting In

"Cutting in" refers to painting the edges and corners where a roller can't reach.

• Do this first: Always cut in before you roll. This allows the roller to cover the brush marks for a seamless texture.
• Use an angled brush: A 2.5-inch angled sash brush is your best friend for clean lines against ceilings and trim.

With patience and the right technique, you can achieve a finish that looks like you hired a pro crew.