Painting walls might seem like a simple DIY task, but achieving a flawless, professional finish requires more than just slapping on a coat of paint. The secret lies in meticulous preparation, the right tools, and proven techniques—steps that pros swear by to avoid common mistakes like streaks, drips, or uneven coverage.

Start with a clean canvas. Even the best paint won’t adhere well to a dirty wall. Use a damp cloth or mild detergent to remove dust, grease, or fingerprints. For stubborn stains (like kitchen grease), a solution of warm water and trisodium phosphate (TSP) works wonders. Next, inspect for flaws: fill cracks or holes with a lightweight spackle, let it dry, then sand the area smooth with 120-150 grit sandpaper. Sanding the entire wall lightly (even if it’s new) creates a “tooth” for the paint to grip, preventing peeling later. Finally, apply a high-quality primer. Primer seals porous surfaces, covers dark colors, and ensures uniform paint absorption—skip this, and you’ll end up using more paint or dealing with patchy results.

Invest in quality tools; they make all the difference. For brushes, choose synthetic bristles (like nylon-polyester blends) for water-based latex paints—they hold paint well and leave fewer streaks. Avoid natural bristles, which absorb too much water and can shed. For rollers, the nap (the fuzzy part) length matters: short nap (1/4-3/8 inch) for smooth walls (like drywall), medium nap (1/2 inch) for lightly textured surfaces, and long nap (3/4-1 inch) for rough walls (like stucco). Use a paint tray with a grid to remove excess paint from the roller—this prevents drips and uneven application. And don’t skimp on painter’s tape: look for low-tack, edge-locking tape to protect trim, outlets, and ceilings without peeling off existing paint.

The order of operations is key. First, “cut in” the edges: use a 2-3 inch brush to paint along corners, baseboards, ceiling lines, and outlets. Dip the brush only 1/3 of the way into the paint—too much, and you’ll get drips. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and use smooth, steady strokes. Once the edges are done, move to the roller. Dip the roller into the tray, then roll it over the grid to remove excess. Apply paint in a “W” pattern, then fill in the gaps with horizontal strokes. Work in small sections (3x3 feet) to keep the paint wet—if you let it dry before rolling over, you’ll get lap marks. Apply two thin coats instead of one thick one: thick paint takes longer to dry, drips, and can crack. Wait at least 4 hours between coats (check the paint can for exact times).

Remove painter’s tape while the paint is still slightly wet—if it dries, it might pull off the new paint. Use a utility knife to score the edge of the tape if it’s sticking. After the final coat dries (24-48 hours), inspect the wall for any missed spots or streaks. Touch up with a small brush, using the same “cut in” technique. Clean your tools immediately: rinse brushes and rollers with warm water (for latex paint) or mineral spirits (for oil-based). Hang brushes upside down to dry, and store rollers in a sealed plastic bag if you’re using them the next day.

The secret to perfect wall paint isn’t magic—it’s attention to detail. By taking the time to prepare properly, using the right tools, and following pro techniques, you’ll get a finish that looks like it was done by a professional. Remember: patience is key—don’t rush, and let each step dry completely. With these tips, your walls will look smooth, even, and beautiful for years to come.