Many homeowners shy away from interior painting, fearing it’s too time-consuming or requires professional skill. But the truth is—with the right prep, tools, and techniques, you can achieve a showroom-worthy finish without hiring a pro. Let’s break down the process step by step, so you can paint like an expert in no time. Prep is 80% of the job. Start by clearing the room: move furniture to the center and cover it with drop cloths (plastic or canvas works—avoid bed sheets, which can slip). Next, clean walls thoroughly: mix a mild detergent with warm water and wipe away dust, grease, or fingerprints (pay extra attention to kitchens and bathrooms). For scuffs or holes, use spackle to fill imperfections—let it dry, then sand it smooth with 220-grit sandpaper. Finally, apply painter’s tape to trim, baseboards, and outlets. Press the edges firmly with a putty knife to prevent bleed-through—this is key for crisp lines. The right tools make all the difference. For walls, choose a microfiber roller with a nap (pile) suited to your surface: ¼-inch for smooth walls, ½-inch for lightly textured, and ¾-inch for popcorn or stucco. Pair it with a sturdy roller frame (avoid cheap plastic—they bend easily). For trim and corners, use a 2-3 inch angled brush with synthetic bristles (they hold more paint and don’t shed like natural hair). Don’t forget a paint tray with a liner—easy cleanup! And invest in a paint edger if you struggle with straight lines (it’s a game-changer for beginners). Now, let’s paint. First, prime if needed: primer seals porous surfaces (like new drywall) and helps paint adhere better. If you’re going from dark to light, use a tinted primer—it cuts down on coats. Stir your paint well (don’t skip this—settled pigment leads to uneven color). Start with the trim: use your angled brush to paint baseboards, crown molding, and door frames. Then move to the walls: dip the roller in paint, roll it on the tray’s ridged section to remove excess (too much paint causes drips). Apply the first coat in a “W” pattern—this spreads paint evenly without streaks. Work in 3x3 foot sections, keeping a “wet edge” (don’t let the paint dry before moving to the next section—this prevents lap marks). Let the first coat dry completely (check the can for drying time—usually 2-4 hours), then apply a second coat for full coverage. Pro tips for a flawless finish: 1) Don’t overload the brush—wipe excess on the tray’s edge to avoid drips. 2) For corners, use a small brush (1-2 inches) instead of the roller—you’ll get cleaner lines. 3) Remove painter’s tape when the paint is still slightly damp (not fully dry)—this prevents peeling. 4) If you make a mistake, let the paint dry, sand lightly, and touch up with a small brush. 5) Ventilate the room—open windows and use fans to speed up drying and reduce fumes. When you’re done, clean your tools immediately: rinse brushes and rollers with warm water (for latex paint) or mineral spirits (for oil-based). Store leftover paint in airtight containers (label them with the room and color). Let the paint cure fully (2-3 weeks) before hanging pictures or moving furniture back—this prevents scuffs. Interior painting doesn’t have to be daunting. By focusing on prep, using the right tools, and following these simple techniques, you’ll achieve a professional-looking finish that transforms your space. Remember: practice makes perfect—don’t worry if your first coat isn’t perfect. With a little patience, you’ll be painting like a pro in no time!