The 2 primary options for indoor paint are water-based and oil-based paints. Water-based paint is a versatile paint that you can use almost anywhere. It’s also quick-drying and is low in the chemicals that create harsh fumes. However, if your wall was previously painted with oil paint, the water-based paint may not stick. Oil-based paint has strong fumes, but it has a rich, glossy finish and is very durable. It’s great for use in rooms with higher humidity, like a kitchen or bathroom. If you’re a novice painter, the longer drying time can give you more time to fix errors. Latex paint is another option for interior paint. However, it’s not as durable as water- or oil-based paints.

You’ll typically need more paint if you’re using a dark color, if the wall is textured, or if the walls are dark and you want to switch to a light color. This estimate works for primer, as well. You can also use a paint calculator to determine how much paint you’ll need, which you can find online. Just type “paint calculator” into your search engine.

Remember to remove outlet covers and light switch covers so you don’t accidentally paint them! You’ll probably need a Phillips-head screwdriver for that.

You can purchase plastic sheeting wherever paint supplies are sold. Avoid using cloths to cover the floor and furniture, like towels or bedsheets. The paint can soak through the fabric, and the stains will be harder to clean if you don’t notice them right away.

Wear gloves and long sleeves when you’re working with TSP, as it can be irritating to your skin. If you don’t have access to TSP, use soap and water instead. Fix any cracks or holes in the walls before you paint. [6] X Expert Source Barry ZakarHandyman Expert Interview. 16 July 2020. You should also remove any nails, adhesives, or anything else that you don’t want to paint over.

Choose a painters tape designed for the type of wall you’re painting (such as drywall, wood, or wallpaper). Cover the areas you do not want to paint with tape. [8] X Expert Source Patrick CoyePainting Specialist Expert Interview. 22 July 2020.

Unfortunately, opening windows and doors does run the risk of dirt, dust, pollen, and insects flying into the room, and potentially getting stuck in the paint. If you can, try to open only the windows that are covered with a screen, or tape a piece of mesh over the window if that’s not an option. . Fumes from painting can potentially cause you to become dizzy, short of breath, and nauseous. You might also experience headaches. If you notice any of this, go to an area with fresh air, and double-check the ventilation in the room. [10] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

Don’t sand enough to sand down into the paint or the wall underneath, as this might create an uneven appearance in your finished paint job. This job will go a lot faster if you have an orbital sander. If you don’t have one, you may be able to rent one from a nearby home improvement store. However, you can also sand by hand if that’s a better option for you.

If you’re painting a wall that’s already been painted, it’s fine to use a paint and primer in one, rather than priming separately. [13] X Expert Source Barry ZakarHandyman Expert Interview. 16 July 2020.

If the primer has been sitting for a while, you may want to shake the can vigorously before you open it, then stir it afterward.

Painters who are experienced enough at cutting in might not even have to use painter’s tape!

Painting in an M or a W motion can help you avoid streaks in your primer. You can find rollers, covers, paint trays, and screens at your local home improvement store or paint store.

This will help the paint bond to the wall better, giving it a smoother appearance when you’re finished.

Use a paint can opener or a flathead screwdriver to pry the top off the paint can. [19] X Expert Source Patrick CoyePainting Specialist Expert Interview. 22 July 2020.

Typically, you’ll get the best results by cutting in one wall at a time, then rolling that wall before moving to another. Cutting in around the doors, windows, and ceiling is more intensive than rolling the walls. If you do roll the walls first, you may be more tired, which can make you more likely to make mistakes. [20] X Expert Source Barry ZakarHandyman Expert Interview. 16 July 2020.

Place a metal paint screen in the tray, as well.

Roller covers are sold according to the thickness of the nap, or the fibers that make up the cover. For an interior painting job, a 1⁄2–3⁄4 in (1. 3–1. 9 cm) nap will give you plenty of coverage, but it won’t soak the walls with too much paint like a deeper nap might. [21] X Research source

Don’t put the roller all the way on the top of the wall, or you might accidentally paint the ceiling.

If you’re having trouble painting from the top of the wall to the bottom in an even motion, draw an imaginary horizontal line halfway down the wall. Paint a v-shape above the line, then another below, overlapping the wet edges of paint slightly.

Don’t try to just touch up certain spots, as the end result will look messy. Apply an even coat of paint to the whole wall, instead.

If the paint seeped under the tape, consider whether you should paint the trim to cover it up.