DIY Paint Projects and Painting Hacks: A Guide for Every Home

DIY paint projects are one of the most satisfying and cost-effective ways to refresh your living space. Whether you’re looking to give a tired room a new lease of life, transform your outdoor space, or freshen up furniture, painting is a versatile and accessible option for homeowners. At Pearsons of Duns, within our Builders’ Merchants division, we know how essential the right materials and techniques are for a successful project. This blog explores a range of DIY painting hacks to help you achieve professional-looking results without the hefty price tag.

Planning Your DIY Paint Project

Before grabbing your brush, it’s crucial to plan out your project. A well-thought-out approach ensures efficiency and quality, saving you time and money in the long run.

Choose the Right Paint

Not all paints are created equal, and selecting the correct type for your project is key, but fear not; we have an extensive range available at the centre. Interior emulsion is a good starting point if you’re painting walls. For outdoor projects, weather-resistant exterior paint will protect against the elements. If you’re working on furniture, consider chalk or latex paint for a smooth finish. We have them all, and our team members are always on hand to discuss the options with you.

Calculate Your Coverage 

Always measure the area you intend to paint and calculate the amount needed. Most paint cans have coverage information on the label, but as a rule of thumb, one litre of paint covers approximately 10 square metres. It’s always wise to buy slightly more paint than you think you’ll need to avoid running out halfway through your project. However, we’re open seven days a week, Mon-Fri: 7.30am-5.00pm, Sat: 8.00am-5.00pm & Sun: 9.00am-4.30pm, so if you do run short, you can always pop in for another tin or two.

Prepare Your Surface 

Prep work might seem like a chore, but it’s vital for achieving a flawless finish. Clean surfaces thoroughly, and remove any old flaking paint and sand where necessary. For walls, filling in cracks and holes with a suitable filler ensures a smooth surface to paint on. We stock a selection of fillers, scrapers, cleaners, specialised soaps, industrial wipes and more to help make light work of the prep work. 

DIY Painting Hacks to Save Time 

Now you’re ready to start, but with the job itself, there are a few top tools and insider tricks to help you elevate your DIY painting game. Here are some painting hacks that professionals swear by.

Painters’ Tape

The right tape is a lifesaver when it comes to clean edges, but only if used correctly. Apply the tape firmly, then run a damp cloth along its edge to ensure it sticks down properly. After painting, remove the tape while the paint is still slightly wet for the sharpest lines.

Tin Foil for Clean Trays

Cleaning up after a paint job can be tedious. To save yourself the trouble, line your paint tray with tin foil or a plastic liner before pouring the paint in. When you’re done, remove the foil for an easy clean-up.

Invest in a High-Quality Brush

A high-quality brush or roller can make all the difference to your final result. Cheap brushes tend to shed bristles, and poor-quality rollers often leave streaks. Look for brushes with tapered edges for cutting in around windows and doors and use foam rollers for a super-smooth finish on large surfaces.

Use Plastic Wrap

When you take a break or need to return to the project the next day, wrap your paintbrushes and rollers in cling film to prevent them from drying out. This trick can save you hours of cleaning and keep your tools ready for the next coat.

Our centre has a great range of tools for all decorating jobs and our staff are always happy to help with advice or a recommendation too.

Painting in an ‘X’ Motion

Avoid the common mistake of painting in straight lines when using a roller. Instead, use a ‘W” or ‘X’ motion to apply the paint evenly and prevent visible roller marks. This method allows for a more even paint distribution and creates a smoother finish.

Common Painting Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when tackling a DIY paint project. Here are a few to watch out for.

Skipping the Primer

Primer creates a smooth base for paint to adhere to, ensuring an even finish and better cover. It’s essential when painting over dark colours or working with materials like wood or metal.

Overloading the Brush or Roller

Too much paint on your brush or roller can lead to drips, streaks, and uneven coverage. Always remove excess paint by gently tapping the brush or rolling the roller on the tray before applying it to the surface.

Painting in the Wrong Conditions: Temperature and humidity can impact how your paint dries. For best results, paint in a well-ventilated area when the temperature is between 10°C and 25°C. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or damp conditions, which can cause the paint to dry too quickly or unevenly.

With a bit of preparation, the right materials, and some handy painting hacks, anyone can achieve professional results with their DIY paint projects. Whether you’re freshening up a room, transforming furniture, or adding a pop of colour to your garden, we have all the supplies you need to get started. 

Visit our Builders Merchants for a wide range of paints, brushes, and accessories to make your next project a success.

For more tips, advice, and top-quality materials, please pop into our store or browse our selection. We’re always here to help you find the perfect solution for your next DIY adventure.

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