12 tips about paint

I have been painting A LOT lately! I have painted both woodwork and walls and I think I have painters wrist, fingers and shoulder. So much painting at Breezy Green!

So, how do you save $ with paint? Here are my tidbits to stretch your painting dollar and to do it right the first time, so you don't waste your paint.
TipT T
Tip #1
We are using paint that I have saved from projects on Pine Street (the other house). Just because it's a "new to you" home, doesn't mean that you have to go and buy all NEW products. As long as your paint is in shape to paint, you're all set!

Tip #2
If you have to buy new, buy SMART! Look for sales and coupons.
Sometimes you can't wait, but if you can, buy on sale. I always buy my paint at Rocky's-ACE Hardware. Right now they have a sale going on! Buy 2, get 1 FREE works for me. Also, grab their ACE Rewards card.

Tip #3
Think about what you have to paint and how you can use the same color in other parts of the home. I have used Ben Moore-revere pewter for the hallway and I will also be using it for the dining room and in the first foyer.

Tip #4
Don't buy more than you need. I used to fall into this trap and buy 2 gallons thinking that I had no motivation to go back to the store and buy more of the color, if I ran out. In reality, when I actually measured the room and thought about how much I'll need for two coats, I figured that I didn't need as much as I thought. Beware of the "buying way too much paint trap." You'll have wasted gallons in your basement.

Tip #5
Look for the "OOPS PAINT" This is paint that has been mixed and is not the customers color liking. They are discounted cans of paint. Ask where it is hidden at your local paint store. Yes, Wal-Mart has oops paint too!

Tip #6
Pick the right finish, for the right wall. Satin is very glossy! I go with semi-gloss for trim and doors. I use an eggshell finish for all of my walls.

Tip #7
Wash the walls and avoid a heavy duty cleaner because it may leave a funky finish that won't allow the primer/paint to adhere.

Tip #8
Have a plan. Cut into the walls first near the moldings and/or ceilings too, then use your roller from bottom to top, making a "W" formation, then roll back into it. Make sure that you have plenty of paint on your roller, but not so much that you have a soupy roller mess.

Tip #9
I use an artist brush to paint those hard to reach spots and to do touch ups.

Tip #10
Let the paint dry. Then apply a 2nd coat. It's worth it!

Tip #11
Know when to quit for the day. When you find that you are making serious painting mistakes and have almost tripped over the paint can that you thought you moved out of the way, it's time to clean your brushes and call it a day.

Tip #12
Painting a room is a very satisfying way to achieve a whole new look for less money. Painting takes time, so please take it. Don't rush and happy painting!