Applying a fresh coat of paint to your wall can greatly transform it, giving it a new look. Painting a wall is a simple exercise when done correctly. You can actually do it yourself without the need of any expertise. For a first timer, it can be a bit challenging and overwhelming because they do not know where to start. Before picking up the brush and going ahead to paint a wall there are a number of steps to be followed. Everyone can learn how to paint a wall by using the following steps that will ensure your first do it yourself painting project is a success.
1. Pick and arrange the tools you will need for the job
Arrange the apparatus you will need for the painting exercise. There are a few tools that you must have with you in order for your painting to be a success. These tools include:
- Paint
- Paintbrushes
- Painters tape
- A rug or sponge
- Drop cloths or canvas
- Paint roller
- Paint tray
- Paint roller extension pole
- A ladder
Arrange these tools in an area that is easily accessible to the painter before the painting begins.
2. Determine the amount of paint required
The amount of paint required can be estimated. The amount required depends on the size of the wall. It is also dependent on whether the painter will use a primer and the type of primer used. For example, using a gray tinted primer and applying it to the wall before applying a full color will greatly reduce the number of strokes that will need to be applied.
The texture of the surface also matters. A highly textured wall will require more paint to be applied compared to a smooth surface. It is safe to purchase ten percent more of the estimated amount of paint.
3. Prepare the wall you are going to paint
Begin by preparing the wall you're going to paint. Locate all accessories that are part of the wall or attached to the wall. These accessories may include switches, thermostat, and sockets. Cut the electric flow from the main circuit box and unscrew the accessories from the wall.
The ones you can't be able to safely unscrew can be covered using tape and thick paper. Remove all artwork and shelves too.
4. Move furniture and valuable assets away from the wall
Move all the furniture that lays close to the wall away from the wall. If possible take it to another room or outside. This is to ensure that paint does not come into contact with your favorite piece of furniture, paint sticks permanently making it hard to remove out of fabric.
Moving furniture gives you working space as you won't bump into it as you try to move while painting. If you move your furniture and electronic appliances to the center of the room, cover each with a drop cloth or canvas that covers them wholly. Don't use thin coverings as paint is sure to get through thin materials.
5. Clean the wall surface of dirt
Use a wet cloth, preferably a sponge, warm water and detergent. Scrap off any materials stuck to the wall before wiping it gently. Soak the sponge in the warm water, wringing out excess water. Wipe the wall gently beginning from the top to the bottom, careful not to soak the wall. Cleaning the wall is key to achieving a smooth seamless finish.
6. Apply the primer
A primer is important as it helps your paint to stick to the wall as well as stand out. A standard white primer is compatible with most paints. Applying a primer greatly reduces the number of coats needed to achieve a deep color. It is necessary when painting a lighter color on top of a darker color.
Apply the primer evenly starting from the top then going to the center of the wall to the bottom. Make sure it is consistent and smooth in its thickness. Try not to leave any patches. Apply the primer into crevices and hard to reach corners using a paintbrush. Use long and smooth striking technique, for more accurate lines use a tape.
Give your wall some time to dry. Remember to keep your working environment well ventilated by opening windows or using an overhead fan. Doing this will also help the primer to dry quickly.
7. Painting the wall
Mix the paint using a wooden stick to stir it. Considering the desired texture and the type of finish the painter wants for the wall, pick the color. An electric paint mixer can also be employed for a more even result. The painter should mix it till its uniform in texture. The paint should be in a large bucket to avoid it splattering all over the place as you mix.
Put two inches of the paintbrush into the paint and let the excess drip back in. Angle the edge of the brush and apply the paint starting from the top parts of the wall. A painter may need a ladder to use to reach the high-end parts of the wall. They could also use a tall roller. Paint downwards using long smooth strokes, rewet the brush in the paint when it runs dry.
Use the paintbrush to paint the walls edges. Change to a roller and apply paint to the wider center. Apply the paint back and forth using a W or an M pattern. For the hard to reach topmost parts of the wall, use the extended roller pole. Cover all the primer using the paint.
8. Application of additional coats
After finishing to apply the first coat of paint, have a look at the wall. Apply an additional coat of paint using the same procedure of first painting the edges then focusing on the middle using the roller. Extra coats of paint may be necessary for walls with rough textures or ones where a darker finish is desired. Check to see areas where the paint is not uniform. Remove the tape once you've achieved the desired results. The accessories can then be screwed back into place and the electric power restored. It usually takes a day or two for the paint to dry completely so be patient.
