Top Tips for DIY Painting

Top Tips for DIY Painting

If you’re ready to be the Da Vinci of interior and exterior painting, then read our top tips to make sure that you achieve a design that even the grand masters of art could be proud of.

Make sure that the room is well ventilated

According to the Environmental Protection Agency  (EPA), vapours can be a dangerous effect of painting in an enclosed space, leading to dizziness as well as irritation of the lungs, eyes and throat. Thus, if you a choose to paint in an indoor environment, then make sure that you have warned your neighbours (if in an apartment) and have either several windows open or a ventilation system. It is also wise to take a break from painting every 2-3 hours to make sure that you are not heavily exposed to the vapours.

Consider your environment

Your environment will be a major factor behind which paint you decide to use on your project. Will Mother Nature wreak havoc upon your completed creation through heavy rain, snow, sun or humidity? Environmental damage can be a large problem in external projects, such as painting fences or garages, so it is wise to use a stronger paint when facing the outside world. This can be in the form of a wood stainer, acrylic latex primer or an oil floor paint.

Look to your colour palettes

Whether your project is to paint an exterior garage or the wall of a child’s bedroom, it is always important to consider what colours will suit the environment. If you are feeling daring and wish to combine colours, then be prepared to buy a lot of masking tape to make sure that no colours overlap or stain onto their counterparts. This will also make your painting look a lot neater and professional.

Make sure you have enough supply for your demand

Most paint pots will come in small, medium or large tubs. But to save time opening a can when your smock and hands are dirty, try pouring all the paint into one tub. This can also help you recycle colours, as many can be stored away to be used later, or for adding an extra coat of paint to your wall for a consistent colour. Always paint in the same direction to keep your wall (or project) from appearing blotchy and having obvious stroke marks. There are a whole host of trade paint suppliers for you to consider, both on the high street and online – stock up well before starting your project.

Be original with your ideas!

If you fancy being creative with your projects, seek inspiration from art websites, like Pinterest, where many designers have already posted images of their finished product. Whether this is merging colours on a wall, or painting pictures on a wardrobe, each designer will provide step by step methods of achieving the perfect result. Do not be afraid to experiment with different colours and ideas. If you do not like your result, simply paint over your original with a plain colour and start over. The limit is your imagination!

Catherine Avatar