These cost just a few dollars and can sometimes be picked up on the counter in the paint section for free. A paint can opener has a little loop to hook your fingers into and a lip on the other end that will attach onto the edge of the paint can lid to pry it up. Like the roller covers, you want to be sure that you pick up paint brushes suited for the type of paint you are using be it latex or oil based.Īlthough it is possible to use a screwdriver to open a can of paint, it is nice to have the tool created for the job on hand. A good brush will last you a long time if properly cleaned and taken care of and it will give you the nicest finish and will not shed the bristles as you paint.

Although they can be expensive, this is one item that you don't want to skimp on. Angled brushes are best when cutting in around trim, the ceiling, and in corners and flat brushes are best on areas of the wall that are too narrow for a roller.īe sure to look for good quality brushes. You'll need a variety of paint brushes of different sizes depending on what you are painting.Īnd you'll also want brushes that are both flat and angled.

Not only does this make clean up easy, but it preserves the metal paint tray to be used for many years. They cost less than $2 and can be thrown away when the job is done. While you can do the work of washing out the paint tray when you're done, it is easiest to buy a plastic tray liner that fits inside of your tray. A metal paint tray will last a long time if cleaned after each use. It is made with a well at the end for the paint to stay with an angled textured side that allows you to clear paint off the roller so it doesn't drip. This post about the best paint rollers from The Home Depot does a great job of explaining the differences.īecause you can't just dip a roller into the paint can like you would a brush, you need a paint tray to hold your paint. The package will normally explain the material type and nap (or thickness of the roller). The type of roller cover you'll need depends on the surface that you're covering and the type of paint you'll be using. And it gets the job done a lot faster than using a brush alone. Using a roller allows for a smooth paint finish and ensures that you don't have brush marks on your walls. To paint your walls or ceiling you'll need to have a paint roller frame and roller cover. I've put together a handy printable for you that features all of the tools below that you can print out or save to your phone as your own shopping list to take to the store.

And there are different kits that include different sized brushes and rollers depending on what you need. It is a lot cheaper to buy everything together when you need it all than it is to buy each individual piece. If you are starting from scratch in terms of buying painting tools, be sure to look for painting kits that have much of what you'll be needing in one package. Everything can be stored away together in one box so that whenever you're ready to do a little color refreshing, you've got what you need. And it's good to be prepared ahead of time.there is nothing worse that prepping the room and popping open that can of paint and then realizing that you forgot to buy a paintbrush!Īlthough it may seem like there is a lot to buy, most items are inexpensive and if cared for properly, can last for many painting jobs. Painting isn't a hard job, but the best ways to get a 'pro' finish is to have the right tools and to choose the right paint finish. I took a trip to Home Depot this weekend armed with my shopping list of everything I needed to begin painting my living room. For more information, you can view my disclosure policy. This post may contain affiliate links which means I receive a small commission if you choose to make a purchase using the link, but there is no additional cost to you.

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