The Painting Process
For most painting jobs, paint window and door trim before painting surrounding walls. Trim typically has more edges and curves that are difficult to paint evenly. Trim paint can overlap on to the surrounding wall and later be cut-in or covered over with the wall paint for smoother results.
To paint door and window trim:
[ 1 ] Paint horizontal surfaces before painting vertical ones.
[ 2 ] Apply paint to the central sections of doors and windows before applying it to outer edges.
[ 3 ] If painting to an edge, apply paint horizontally to near the edge, then paint vertically up to the edge for greater control and smoother results.
To paint rooms and large surfaces:
[ 1 ] Remove all switch covers, outlet covers, and lighting fixtures. If components cannot be removed, apply painter’s masking tape around the object to protect it from paint application.
[ 2 ] Remove all small furnishings from the room. Large furniture may be moved to the center of the room and covered with painter’s plastic.
[ 3 ] As needed, repair (see page 99) and clean (see page 170) the room’s surfaces.
[ 4 ] As needed, apply a primer coat to patched areas.
EXPERT TIP: Paint ceilings before painting walls.
[ 5 ] Using brushes or pads, apply paint to the surface edges that a roller cannot easily cover, called cutting in.
[ 6 ] Apply paint with a roller to all flat surfaces easily covered with a roller. Paint in 3-ft square sections from the surface edges toward the center.
[ 7 ] Continue painting other room surfaces as needed.
EXPERT TIP: To minimize accidents, always place the paint container at the approximate same location relative to the painter and move the container as needed. If the painter doesn’t know where the can is, he or she may accidentally kick and spill it.
[ 8 ] Allow the paint to dry (see paint can instructions) before deciding whether to apply a second coat or to use sponges and other decorative tools to install designs on the wall.
