How do I get a professional look when painting walls?
Answers:
The most important thing to remember is that preparation is more than half of the job. Tape off and cover the edges. Remove any switch plate covers. Fill all the holes and let it dry before painting in case the filler shrinks and needs another application. Then lightly sand those areas and any other imperfections. Be sure to prime the area you are going to paint. Your paint will go on much more evenly, and I promise it will look more professional. If you are using darker paints, have your primer tinted darker. Clean any spatters or drips right away. Remember to never overload your brushes or rollers. Two thin coats always looks much better then one heavy coat as a heavy coat can tend to sag. If you're unsure, let your first coat dry completely before putting on the second coat, this should give you a better idea about the coverage you are getting from your paint. Remember to remove your tape before the paint is completely dry so it doesn't peel.
Good luck!
Other answers:
I dont think its too hard. I am a beginner, two years since getting my house.
Just use a good primer and make your cutting in around the ceiling, windows & doors as straight as you can. Use a good brush, an angled Purdy brush is probably best. I've tried to use cheap brushes, and it makes it twice as hard to do it straight.
I have two children, so I use satin finish, but personally, I perfer flat, and do the trim a crisp white.
Don't overroll it, it takes the paint off and leaves streaks that way. Apply it kinda thick, but evenly. Maybe do smaller sections at a time.
Good Luck !
I dont think its too hard. I am a beginner, two years since getting my house.
Just use a good primer and make your cutting in around the ceiling, windows & doors as straight as you can. Use a good brush, an angled Purdy brush is probably best. I've tried to use cheap brushes, and it makes it twice as hard to do it straight.
I have two children, so I use satin finish, but personally, I perfer flat, and do the trim a crisp white.
Don't overroll it, it takes the paint off and leaves streaks that way. Apply it kinda thick, but evenly. Maybe do smaller sections at a time.
Good Luck !
Wear a business suit and smart shoes. Have a briefcase nearby and maybe a laptop. ALl of these will give the illusion of professionalism - but be careful not to splash paint on any of the above!
Jenn has given you some great ideas. Use quality tools and material. If you need to prime, it will help to tint the primer at the paint store. Doesn't need to be anywhere near the same finish color, just a bit to help with the coverage. Mask carefully and completely. Use the blue painters tape. When you roll, do so in a "W" pattern always rolling into and out of a "wet" edge. As Jenn said, don't over do it. Two light coats are better than one heavy one. Make sure the walls are dust free. Wipe down with a damp cloth before starting. Make sure your painting with the room at least 65 degrees or so. Mix your paint thoroughly.
A pro job is all in the prep work. If I hire a team to paint and they DON'T spend a long time taping, and blocking off what not to paint, I'll fire them before the first coat is dry.
The blue tape really is good stuff but you have to make sure you press at the edge to seal it.
Then, use a high quality paint--I know you said eggshell and flat, those are just finish textures. I highly recommend Benjamin Moore and Hirshfield's paints (no sponsorship) because they cover smoothly and evenly. Stir the paint well with a flat stick before beginning.
You want to start by applying with the roller in giant W's across the wall, and then fill in the large areas. Do your edges last rather than first and feather in your strokes toward the center. I'm not sure how to say more without a photo. Home Depot has a book called Home Improvement 1-2-3 that has good painting tips for a beginner.
As I've been doing this type thing for over thirty years, I can tell you it isn't that difficult when done properly, and you will achieve the same look any professional can if you follow a few steps. Since this is a new home, I'm assuming it has never been painted previously. It is essential to put primer on all walls and trim to be painted, and a sealer on any wall to be papered. This will prepare the surface so your paint will adhere properly. With latex paint you will need to use what is referred to as a short nap roller. The thicker rollers are for enamels and I use them with textured ceilings. Just remember, you should be able to get knowledgeable information regarding types of rollers and paintbrushes to use from any reputable paint sales counter. Do your prep work, taping off windows or trim you don't want to risk painting. Use thin coats to avoid runs and drips; don't overload brushes or rollers; and don't "dry paint" with them either. After a little practice you'll relax and start painting like a pro by the time you've finished your home. Good luck!!