Thorough Prep (Covering, Taping) and Proper Technique

Description

Careful preparation and using the right painting techniques are crucial for a clean paint job.

Recipe/Instructions

1. Preparation:
   • Move furniture to the center of the room or out entirely. Cover remaining furniture and floors completely with drop cloths (canvas or plastic).
   • Remove outlet covers and switch plates.
   • Clean walls to remove dust and grime.
   • Apply painter's tape carefully along edges of trim, baseboards, ceilings, windows, and door frames for crisp lines. Press tape edges down firmly to prevent paint bleeding.
2. Cutting In: Pour some paint into a smaller container (paint pail). Using an angled paintbrush (2-3 inches wide), carefully paint a strip (about 2-3 inches wide) along all edges where the roller won't reach (corners, ceiling line, around trim/windows/doors).
3. Rolling: Pour paint into a paint tray, filling the well but not overloading it. Dip the paint roller into the paint, then roll it back and forth on the tray's ramp to load it evenly, removing excess.
4. Technique: Start rolling a few inches away from a corner. Roll onto the wall in a large 'W' or 'N' pattern, then fill in the shape with overlapping vertical strokes without lifting the roller. Apply light, even pressure. Avoid pressing too hard, which causes drips and lines.
5. Reload & Maintain Wet Edge: Reload the roller frequently before it gets dry. Overlap slightly onto the previously painted 'wet edge' to avoid lap marks.
6. Clean Spills: Keep a damp rag handy to immediately wipe up any drips or splatters.
7. Remove Tape: Remove painter's tape while the paint is still slightly tacky (usually within an hour or so, check paint can instructions). Pull it off slowly at a 45-degree angle.

What makes the Dish Special

N/A - Combines essential prep work with standard painting techniques to ensure a neat, professional finish.