1. Mix the paint well
Stir the paint thoroughly before you begin to ensure a consistent color and texture. Large quantities. If you need to use multiple cans of the same color, pour all the cans into a larger container and mix them together to avoid color variations. This is often called "boxing." Stir. For larger quantities, it is a good idea to mix the paint using an electric drill. Allow the paint to acclimate to room temperature before you begin mixing. Paint that is too cold or too warm may be more difficult to mix. Check the consistency. Stir the paint frequently while you are painting to prevent the pigments from separating again.
2. Use the right brush or roller
Use a brush for smaller areas and detailed work, and a roller for larger areas. Make sure you use good quality brushes and rollers to get an even finish. We’ll go into more detail on this another week.
3. Start with the edges
First paint the edges and corners with a brush before doing the large surfaces with a roller. This will ensure a neat finish.
4. Thin layers
Apply multiple thin coats of paint instead of one thick coat. This will give a smoother, more durable finish. Form a ‘W’ or ‘M’ shape. Start by painting a ‘W’ or ‘M’ pattern on the wall and then fill in the gaps. This will ensure an even distribution of the paint. Apply even pressure. Apply even pressure to the roller and avoid pressing too hard, which can cause streaks and unevenness. Overlap your strokes. Overlap each stroke slightly to ensure there are no gaps or streaks. Work in sections. Divide large areas into smaller sections and finish each section completely before moving on to the next. This will help prevent overlap marks.
5. Sand between coats
For an ultra smooth finish, lightly sand between coats of paint with fine sandpaper. Remove dust with a lint-free cloth.
6. Allow to dry sufficiently
Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This will prevent the paint from dripping or streaking. Work quickly and systematically. Work quickly enough to prevent the paint from drying while you are still painting, but also take the time to work accurately. Avoid painting in extreme temperatures. Do not paint in temperatures that are too high or too low, as this can affect the drying time and the final result. Ventilation. Ensure that the room is adequately ventilated to allow the paint to dry properly and to reduce fumes.