What Is TSP?

Dear Janes,
Okay, I really need some help here. Can you please tell me what in the world is TSP?! Does it stand for "Too Sour Paint"? Every time I talk to the guys in the home improvement center about a paint project the first thing out of their mouths is, "Are you going to use TSP?" Considering the fact that it seems like a staple of the painting process (and I'm always afraid of looking like an idiot) my response has always been, "Oh, yeah, definitely!" So please make an honest woman out of me and fill me in!
Sheryl C.

Dear Sheryl,
Bless your heart! We totally understand your fear of "Asking the Stupid Question" -- we've had thousands of women write us with the same worry. The "big secret" really isn't that big. TSP, which stands for trisodium phosphate, is a powder you mix with warm water and use to wipe down your walls before painting. It acts in three ways to improve your paint's stick-to-itiveness:

1. Degreaser. TSP helps to remove stubborn greasy areas. It is crucial to use when painting walls in your kitchen, specifically ones that are near your stove. Any grease that isn't removed before painting can adversely affect the paint's adherence.
2. Cleaner. Most of us don't think that our walls are dusty or even dirty, but if they aren't clean and dry before painting, the paint won't stick properly.
3. Deglosser. When a wall has been painted with a high-sheen paint (satin, semigloss, or high gloss) you need to remove or "dull" that sheen before applying another coat of paint. Otherwise, the slipperiness of the paint below won't allow the next coat to stick and your new paint will crack before its time. Sanding and proper preparation of the surface is a must, and wiping the area with a solution of TSP and water will help break down a bit of the glossiness of the top coat. Be aware that TSP will darken some wood, such as mahogany. Use eye protection and gloves when applying and simply "wash" your painting surface with your TSP and water solution and then rinse with a clean, damp sponge. That's all there is to it! Crisis averted, and now you can tell them the truth when they ask if you're going to use TSP. Best of luck on your future Jane projects!

Jane Tip: Make sure you completely rinse TSP from the walls (and let the walls dry) before you paint -- otherwise, the new paint won't adhere properly. Rinse the solution with a clean, damp sponge and you should end up with a beautiful paint job.

Hugs 'n' Hammers,
The Janes