How to How to Paint Interior Walls
A fresh coat of paint transforms a room. Learn the proper technique for painting interior walls like a professional with smooth, even coverage.
Your Progress
0 of 6 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Prep the Room
Mike Johnson: "Pro tip: Make sure to double-check this before moving to the next step..."
Step 1: Prep the Room
Remove furniture or move to center and cover with drop cloths. Remove outlet covers, switch plates, and fixtures. Clean walls with TSP or sugar soap. Fill holes with spackle, sand smooth when dry. Repair any damage.
Canvas Drop Cloths (2-pack)
Durable, non-slip, absorbs paint drips better than plastic
2 Step 2: Tape and Protect
Mike Johnson: "Pro tip: Make sure to double-check this before moving to the next step..."
Step 2: Tape and Protect
Apply painter's tape along ceiling, baseboards, door frames, and window trim. Press firmly for clean lines. Cover floors with drop cloths. Tape plastic over doorways to contain dust.
3 Step 3: Choose Paint and Primer
Mike Johnson: "Pro tip: Make sure to double-check this before moving to the next step..."
Step 3: Choose Paint and Primer
Use paint + primer combo for most walls. Flat for ceilings, eggshell for bedrooms, satin for kitchens/baths. Calculate: room square footage divided by 350 = gallons needed (2 coats). Buy quality paint - better coverage, fewer coats.
Sherwin-Williams Duration - Gallon
Premium paint, one-coat coverage, washable, low VOC
4 Step 4: Cut In Edges
Step 4: Cut In Edges
Use angled brush to "cut in" - paint 2-3" border along all edges: ceiling line, corners, baseboards, trim. Use steady hand, don't overload brush. Feather edges to blend. Do entire room before rolling.
5 Step 5: Roll the Walls
Step 5: Roll the Walls
Load roller evenly in tray. Roll in "W" pattern to distribute paint, then fill in. Use extension pole for high areas. Maintain wet edge - work in 3x3 ft sections. Don't press too hard. Second coat after 4 hours.
6 Step 6: Clean Up and Final Touches
Step 6: Clean Up and Final Touches
Remove tape while paint is slightly damp (prevents chipping). Touch up any missed spots with small brush. Clean brushes/rollers with soap and water immediately. Replace outlet covers after 24 hours.