Master the cutting-in technique for clean edges without tape
Cutting in means painting a 2-3 inch band along all edges (ceiling line, corners, trim, windows, doors) using an angled brush before rolling the walls. Dip a high-quality 2 to 2.5-inch angled sash brush about 1/3 of the way into the paint. Tap off excess on the inside of the can (do not scrape across the rim). Position the brush about 1/4 inch away from the edge, then slowly push toward the edge, letting the bristle tips create a straight line. Use long, smooth strokes and maintain a consistent bead of paint at the tip.
Why It Works
An angled sash brush naturally creates a fine line when held correctly. The angled tip allows you to see exactly where the paint is going while the bristles flex to create a precise edge. Experienced painters can cut in faster than taping and achieve straighter lines because they control the brush in real time rather than relying on tape adhesion. This technique eliminates tape costs, tape application time, and the risk of tape pulling off fresh paint when removed.
Tips
- Use a high-quality brush ($10-20) -- cheap brushes shed bristles and have inconsistent tips that make straight lines impossible
- Purdy, Wooster, and Corona are professional-grade brush brands trusted by painters
- Load the brush properly: 1/3 of the bristle length in paint, tap both sides against the can interior -- never scrape across the rim (it removes too much paint and creates air bubbles in the can)
- Move the brush slowly; rushing is the single biggest cause of wobbly lines
- Cut in one wall at a time, then immediately roll that wall while the cut-in band is still wet -- this prevents a visible line between the brush and roller areas (lap mark)
- If your hand is unsteady, rest your pinky finger against the wall below the brush as a guide rail
- Paint the ceiling first, then cut in walls at the ceiling line; this order means any ceiling drips get covered by wall paint
- Common mistake: letting the cut-in band dry before rolling the wall -- this creates a visible border between brushed and rolled areas