Painting Materials Checklist

Painting is one of the easiest  ways to refresh your space. Adding a pop of color can help give personality to each room,. Alternately, choosing a neutral paint palette can be pleasing to the eye as you travel from room to room. After you’ve picked up your gallons of paint and primer, make sure you have the following items on hand before starting any paint job.

Tools

You’ll need a few different tools to apply the paint with. Paint rollers will help you cover a large area quickly; be sure to choose foam or lambskin depending on your texturizing needs. A few brushes in a variety of sizes will also be necessary. Smaller, angled brushes will help you cut in around trim and ceilings. Screwdrivers will help you pop the lid on paint cans as well as remove outlet covers or other items in the way.

Floor and furniture coverings

Depending on the type and size of the room, make sure you have the proper floor and furniture coverings. Plastic tarps or sheets are great for one-off paint jobs, but you may want to invest in a canvas drop cloth for painting in multiple rooms. Don’t forget painter’s tape to cover trim ceiling corners or other obstacles.

Lighting

Natural light is great for painting, and opening the windows will help diffuse the paint smell. If your painting project will last well into the evening hours, you may need extra lighting to drag alongside you as you paint. Be sure to look at your paint job in daylight and at night to make sure you have covered all visible streaks and spots.

Miscellaneous

A bucket or cup with water and a rag will be useful for small “oops” moments. Grab a thick towel to kneel on as you paint closer to the floor. Of course, you’ll need old shoes and clothes. Don’t forget a radio or speaker so you have something to listen to!