The right brushes make the job
go more smoothly; see #1.

Getting Started

1. Brush Basics Your brush options fall into two main categories: natural bristles and synthetic bristles. Use only synthetic-bristle brushes with latex paint. For oil-base paint, use either natural- or synthetic-bristle brushes. Brushes come in many shapes and sizes. Wall brushes (3 to 4 inches wide) will get the job done on large, flat expanses. Sash brushes are angled and usually 1-1/2 inches wide, making them ideal for detailed areas, such as the mullions on a window. Trim brushes have a 3-inch-wide straight edge that will serve you well as you cover doors and window frames. If a brush is tapered at the tip, it will hold more paint than a flat-end brush.

2. Roller Rules For paint rollers, follow the same rule as for brushes: Use only synthetic rollers for latex paint and either synthetic or natural rollers for oil-base paint. Another roller rule of thumb: The rougher the surface you're painting, the longer the roller nap should be. To test a roller's quality, squeeze it around the middle with your hand. It should return to its original shape quickly. If it doesn't, invest in a better roller.

 

Reduce drips by punching a hole
in the can's rim; see #4.

3. Tape Talk Buy plenty of tape for your paint job. You'll want to tape off baseboards, moldings, windowpanes, and doorknobs -- anything you don't want to get paint on. Look for masking tape or painter's tape, which is a little more expensive but has a low tack, making it easier to peel off. Some rolls have a short piece of paper sheeting attached along one edge for extra protection. To avoid pulling up the new paint as you remove the tape, get out a hair dryer and give the length of tape a quick shot of air as you lift it: The heat will help prevent the tape from sticking to the finish underneath.

4. Drip Tip After you've pried the lid off the paint can, but before you start to paint, grab a hammer and tap a nail into the can's interior rim, creating a hole. Remove the nail. Now when you dip your brush into the paint and drag it across the edge of the can, the excess paint will go back into the can instead of building up in the rim and flowing over the edge.