Do you have the right painting tools?

When it comes to completing an interior painting job, stocking a supply of tools designed for indoor painting makes preparation, painting and clean-up easier.

The basics

All interior painting projects require a few basic tools. Items such as drop cloths, painter's tape, paint trays, paint rollers and small brushes form the basis of a well-stocked painter's kit. Each item is available in varying degrees of quality, but higher quality items last longer and are often easier to use.

Drop cloths protect furniture and flooring from drips and spills. Options range from thin plastic drop sheets to heavier canvas cloths. Drop cloths drape over furniture, counters and cabinets. In a pinch, newspaper or cardboard can be used to protect floors and flat surfaces. Drop cloths or materials should be placed over furniture, floors or any other surface needing protection before beginning the painting process.

Painter's tape protects trim and edges during painting. It is also used to design paint patterns with contrasting colors. Because painter's tape is designed to be less tacky than masking tape or other tapes, it easily peels off the surface without damaging the finish beneath. Trims, window edges, patterns and so forth should be taped before painting starts.

Paint trays and paint rollers often come packaged together. A metal or durable plastic tray is more stable and less prone to tipping than a thin or flimsy one. Steel rollers with plenty of tines provide a more durable and sturdy surface. Short napped rollers suit most interior surfaces such as walls and ceilings. Longer, napped rollers work well on textured surfaces. Depending on the surfaces to be painted, a smaller roller may come in handy for trim areas or hard-to-reach surfaces. New rollers should be rubbed down before use to remove any lint or fibers that could get into the paint.

A small brush helps with seams and corners or around edges. A 2-inch angled brush provides flexibility for reaching into areas where even a small roller cannot reach or for painting near taped edges or trim. Synthetic bristles provide an affordable but durable option for interior painting projects.

Advanced tools

Depending on the surfaces involved or the condition of the room, additional tools may be helpful. Wall scrapers and wire brushes help remove old or peeling paint or wallpaper before preparing surfaces for new paint. For rough or damaged surfaces, applying putty to holes or scrapes and sanding the surface smooth produces a better finish. Ladders and scaffolding help with ceilings and the top parts of walls by providing stable and safe surfaces to work from while painting.

A few other tools that may come in handy include a hammer and screwdriver for pulling nails or removing switch plates. Coveralls, either disposable or washable, protect clothing and painter's kneepads provide cushioning when working close to the floor.

Regardless of the size of the interior painting project, preparing basic tools and supplies makes the process simpler and easier. Selecting the perfect paint color is only the first step to a beautiful interior painting project.

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