Paint is the closest thing we have to magic. Painting a room is not only one of the easiest DIY projects you can do as a new homeowner, it’s one of the most affordable and impactful, as well. Whether you want to freshen up a space or completely transform it, this guide will walk you through every step of the process. Even if you’ve never held a paintbrush before, you’ll feel confident tackling this project!
Choosing the Right Paint
Half the battle is picking the right supplies. Beyond just color, you want to pick the right finish and type of paint.
When choosing between latex and oil-based paint, consider where you’re painting and how you want it to look. Latex paint dries quickly, is easy to clean with soap and water, and works well for walls and ceilings. It also has fewer fumes and is available in low-VOC or no-VOC options, making it ideal for indoor use. However, it may not be as durable as oil-based paint, especially for furniture or high-traffic areas. This is the most common type of interior paint.
Oil-based paint is more durable, providing a smooth finish, ideal for trim, doors, and furniture. It resists wear better but takes longer to dry and requires solvents for cleanup. It also has stronger fumes.
Paint Finishes:
Flat/Matte: Great for hiding imperfections but harder to clean.
Eggshell: Slightly more durable than flat, with a soft sheen.
Satin: A good middle ground, offering some shine and easy cleaning.
Semi-Gloss: Ideal for places that get wet due to its moisture resistance.
Gloss: Highly durable and easy to clean, but can highlight wall imperfections.
Recommended Paint Types by Room:
Living Rooms & Bedrooms: Eggshell or satin for a balance of durability and softness.
Kitchens & Bathrooms: Semi-gloss or gloss for moisture resistance and easy cleaning.
Ceilings: Flat paint to minimize glare and imperfections.
Trim & Doors: Semi-gloss or gloss for added durability.
High-Traffic Areas (hallways, entryways): Satin or semi-gloss for easy maintenance.
When it comes to picking a color, be sure to get a sample first. The lighting in home improvement stores is often vastly different than your home. Colors can look completely different in your space – for better or worse. Paint a decent square on various walls if the light varies within the room. Consider leaving it up for a few days to see how the color looks in daylight and at night, under artificial light. Taking the extra time to ensure it’s the color you want will save you lots of time in the end.
Bonus tip: Paint a piece of paper so you can move it around the room to get a better look at the color without having to apply it to your walls just yet. You can also order peel-and-stick color samples to see the true color in person.
How Much Paint Do You Need?
To determine how much paint you need, start by measuring your walls, and subtract the area of doors and windows to get the true surface area. If you're using dark colors or making a significant color change, you may need a primer and extra coats. As a general rule, one gallon of paint typically covers about 350 square feet with one coat.
Supplies and Materials
Before you start, gather everything you’ll need:
Paint (don’t forget primer if needed)
Paint rollers and tray
Angled paintbrushes for edges and trim
Painter’s tape to protect trim and ceilings
Drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect floors and furniture
Spackling paste and putty knife for patching holes
Sandpaper to smooth surfaces
Stir sticks to mix the paint
Extension pole for hard-to-reach areas
Ladder
Gloves and old clothes
Preparing the Room
Preparation is key to a professional-looking finish:
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Remove furniture or cover it with drop cloths.
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Take off switch plates and outlet covers.
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Fill any holes or cracks with spackling paste, then sand smooth.
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Clean the walls with a damp cloth to remove dust and grease.
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Tape off edges, trim, and areas you don’t want to paint.
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Lay down drop cloths to protect floors.
Tips for Painting Textured Walls
Painting textured walls requires some extra care:
Use a thicker nap roller (½-inch or more) to ensure full coverage.
Work in multiple thin coats instead of one heavy coat.
Use a brush to get into crevices if needed.
Consider using a paint sprayer for a smoother finish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting a Room
One the room is prepped, you’re ready to paint. Consider these steps:
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Cut in the edges: Use an angled brush to paint along ceilings, corners, and trim before rolling the main walls. If you’re painting the ceiling, do this first.
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Roll the walls: Load your roller with paint and use long, even strokes in a “W” or “M” pattern for smooth coverage. Once the walls have been painted, you can go back and do the trim.
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Let the first coat dry completely. Check your paint can for drying times.
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Apply a second coat if necessary.
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Remove painter’s tape before the paint fully dries to prevent peeling.
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Touch up any missed spots with a small brush.
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Allow the paint to cure before moving furniture back.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake: Skipping the primer
Fix: If you’re covering a dark color or painting new drywall, always use a primer. It helps with better coverage and ensures the final color looks even and vibrant. There’s nothing worse than finishing a paint job to see splotchy spots or places where the old color is bleeding through.
Mistake: Not prepping the walls
Fix: Make sure to clean and patch any imperfections on the walls. Proper prep creates a smooth surface, ensuring a flawless finish.
Mistake: Using cheap brushes and rollers
Fix: Invest in quality brushes and rollers. They help avoid streaks, shedding, and uneven application, leading to a professional-looking result.
Mistake: Applying too much paint at once
Fix: Apply multiple thin coats of paint instead of one thick coat. This prevents drips and ensures a more even and smooth finish.
Mistake: Not waiting between coats
Fix: Allow the paint to dry fully before applying another coat. Rushing can lead to peeling and uneven coverage.
Mistake: Painting in high humidity
Fix: Keeping air flowing and proper ventilation in a space can help it from getting too humid. Humidity can cause streaking in the paint, which can be hard to fix.
Painting a room can make it feel like an entirely new space in just a few hours. With the right prep, tools, and techniques, you’ll get professional-looking results—even as a beginner. Take your time, follow these steps, and enjoy your freshly painted room!
