Interior Painting - Tips to make painting easy

When buying paint or stain record the maker’s name, type of paint and any colour mix details in a handy spot – like the bottom of the can. Then when it’s time to touch-up or re-coat, you’ll be able to accurately re order the right stuff

If you’re using several cans of the same colour, thoroughly mix them together first to make sure the overall colour is consistent.

If you’re taking an hour or two rest from painting, wrap your brush or roller in a plastic bag or gladwrap to keep it moist and ready to be used again. For longer breaks, clean up completely.

When removing old, un strippable wallpaper, paint on a mixture of 8 parts hot water to 1 part methylated spirits. Let this soak for 20 minutes, keeping the surface damp. The paper should then easily scrape off in small pieces.

Remove all door handles, cupboard handles and other removable fittings from wood work – it avoids getting paint on them and permits easier and better panting.

Don’t try to make a can of paint go too far – the result can be too thin a coat and inadequate protection.

Store paint tins upside down to prevent skinning on top.