How to prime the surface first

Bare or new surfaces and surfaces with areas where the paint has deteriorated will require a prime coat. If the old coating is intact and free of rust and peeling or blistering paint, it can serve as the prime coat after a light sanding. The topcoat you have chosen will usually name the proper primer to accompany it on the paint can's label . Sometimes the topcoat itself is recommended as a primer -- consult the can label.

Painting Tips & Ideas

Caring for Paintbrushes
You'll end up with a great paint job every time if you take care of your brushes...

Chalkboard Paint
A chalkboard is great for jotting down notes and a great place for kids to draw, but they can be expensive. An easy and inexpensive way to make your own is with chalkboard paint! It looks like any other spray paint, but it dries to a chalkboard finish...

Choosing Paint Colors
Painting a room can be a big project if you don't know where to begin. I have some advice...

Color Washing
If you thought color washing was a difficult paint technique to achieve, think again...

Discontinued Wallpaper Books
Discontinued wallpaper books have page after page of untapped potential for your home. I'll tell you a few of my ideas...

Estimate Wallpaper
You think you're ready to wallpaper, but you're not sure where to start...

Hanging Border
Hanging a wallpaper border is an easy project that can give any room a whole new look...

Lumpy Paint
One of the best ways to ensure a great paint finish is to make sure that you start out with smooth paint...

Magnetic Paint
If the fridge has become command central and you can't even see the door anymore, make a magnetic memo board, it's really easy...

Painting a Ceiling
If you've been putting off painting the ceiling because you think it's a headache...

Painting tips & tricks of the day

When painting, protect your hands and face with moisturizer. Cleanup will be easier and the moisturizer will prevent paint from seeping into the pores.

Before pouring paint from a can, cover the rim with masking tape. After pouring, remove the tape -- the rim will be clean and the cover will fit tightly.

When painting a room, dip a small card into the paint so that you have the exact colour with you and can match accessories in store.