Achieving a flawless interior paint finish doesn’t have to be difficult. In this blog, we share the top 10 professional tips that can help you get smooth, long-lasting results—whether you're refreshing a single room or painting your entire home. From surface preparation and choosing the right tools to applying coats with precision, each tip is designed to save time, reduce mess, and improve overall quality. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or just looking to understand the process before hiring a painter, these insights will guide you every step of the way.
1. Plan Your Colour Scheme Carefully
Before picking up a brush, take time to choose a colour palette that complements your space, lighting, and furniture. Consider how different shades look during the day versus night, and test samples on the wall before making a final decision.
2. Invest in Quality Paint and Tools
Cheap paint and tools often lead to poor coverage, uneven finishes, and wasted effort. Always choose reputable paint brands and use quality brushes, rollers, and painter’s tape to achieve a professional-looking result that lasts longer.
3. Prep the Walls Properly
Clean walls are crucial for smooth application. Remove dust, grease, or grime using mild soap and water. Patch any holes or cracks and sand the surface for an even texture before painting. This step ensures the paint adheres properly.
4. Use Primer When Needed
Priming is especially important when painting over dark colours, new drywall, or stained surfaces. It creates a uniform base and improves paint adhesion, resulting in richer colour and fewer coats. Don’t skip primer if you want a flawless finish.
5. Protect Floors and Fixtures
Use drop cloths or plastic sheets to cover floors, furniture, and fixtures. Secure edges with painter’s tape to avoid accidents and splatters. Proper preparation helps prevent mess and reduces cleanup time once the job is done.
6. Cut in Before You Roll
Start by “cutting in” the edges with a brush around ceilings, corners, and trim. This ensures clean lines and better coverage when you use the roller. Blend the cut-in areas while they’re still wet for a seamless finish.
7. Use the Right Technique
Roll paint using a “W” or “M” pattern to distribute it evenly, then fill in the gaps without lifting the roller. Don’t overload the roller with paint—thin, even coats are key to avoiding drips and streaks.
8. Allow Proper Drying Time Between Coats
Rushing between coats can lead to smudging and uneven colour. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying time before applying a second or third coat. Patience during this stage leads to better long-term results.
9. Maintain Consistent Lighting
Use consistent lighting throughout the painting process. Natural light is best, but if unavailable, use bright artificial lighting to spot any missed areas, streaks, or uneven patches that need touch-up before the paint dries.
10. Finish with Touch Ups and Clean-Up
Once the paint has dried completely, inspect your work for any imperfections. Use a small brush for final touch-ups. Carefully remove painter’s tape and clean brushes, trays, and rollers immediately so they can be reused.