Are you planning on tackling a paint project in the near future? Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, it’s always helpful to brush up on some tips and tricks before diving in. Messy spills and unexpected drips can quickly turn a fun project into a frustrating one. But fear not, with a few simple hacks and some basic knowledge, you can paint like a pro and avoid the mess.
We’ll share some easy hacks using common household items like painter’s tape, rubber bands, and even a Pringles container, to help make your next paint project a success. We’ll also cover important topics like how to clean your tools, paint perfect corners, and choose the right color for your space. So, before you pick up that paintbrush, read on to learn how to make your paint project less messy and more enjoyable.
Use Painter’s Tape to Defuzz a Roller
If you are using a high-nap roller for your textured walls, you may encounter excess fuzzies that stick to your walls after painting. To avoid this, wrap the roller tightly in painter’s tape before painting. When you remove the tape, the fuzzies will come off with it, leaving your walls looking smooth and clean. This simple trick will save you time and effort in cleaning up after painting and ensure a professional-looking finish.
Painter’s Tape Will Help to Pour Paint
Pouring paint from the can to the tray can be a messy and nerve-racking task. However, with the help of painter’s tape, you can make a spout that creates a neat and steady pour. Here’s how:
- Rip off two eight-inch pieces of painter’s tape for a gallon-size can.
- Stick the pieces diagonally across the rim in a V shape.
- Rip a third piece of tape, about four inches long, and place it across the point of the V.
By creating a spout with painter’s tape, you can avoid dealing with drips, paint pooling in the rim, and a big wad of goopy paper towels. This simple trick can make your painting projects much more efficient and less messy.
A Rubber Band Can Wipe Your Brush
When working on a small paint job, a rubber band can be a helpful tool to keep your work area clean and tidy. Before dipping your brush into the paint can, wrap a rubber band around the can’s opening. This way, you can wipe your brush against the rubber band to remove excess paint, keeping the rim of the can clean. This makeshift blotting station will make it easy to reseal the can when you’re finished. This trick is especially useful for quick touch-ups or small projects that require a small brush.
A Pringles Can Can Be Used to Store Your Roller
Once you have finished painting, you can use an empty Pringles can to store your roller and prevent it from drying out. To do so, roll any excess paint onto the wall and slip the roller inside the long, narrow chip can to contain the mess. Make sure to secure the lid, which you can customize by slicing an asterisk into the center using a box cutter. This lid can then be slid onto the handle of your roller and painted as usual. Once you’re done, stash the entire can in the fridge to keep your roller fresh until the next use.
Caulk Will Help You to Get a Crisp Edge
To achieve impossibly neat lines when painting stripes, you can use caulk. Start by taping off your design and applying a thin line of clear or white caulk along the side of the tape you will be painting. Smooth out the caulk with your finger to seal the seam and prevent any bleeding. Paint over the caulked area with a brush, applying minimal pressure. It is important to avoid using a roller in this step. Finally, pull off the tape while the paint is still wet. This technique will give you crisp, clean edges.
