PAINT LIKE A PRO: 6 PAINTING HACKS
Use these simple painting tips and tricks from the pros to make the process faster and less messy — and ensure a fresh, modern look for your home.
[1] Soak Brushes in Fabric Softener to Keep Brushes Soft
+ Rinse thoroughly (no soap)
+ Mix half a cup of fabric softener with a gallon of warm water
+ Swish brushes in the mixture for 10 seconds or so
+ Lay them flat or hang them on a peg for overnight storage
This way, the bristles won’t develop a bend and will retain their usefulness for your next paint job.
[2] Use Plastic Wrap to Prevent Mishaps
When painting around a large, awkward item you want to keep clean, like a toilet or a standalone sink, surround it with plastic wrap to keep drips from destroying its finish.
[3] Use Vanilla and Lemon Extracts to Reduce Paint Odor
For darker paints, add a couple drops of vanilla extract (artificial is fine) per gallon to reduce the nasty smell and keep your room smelling sweet for weeks to come.
Because you don’t want the tint of vanilla to ruin the color of your paint, swap it with lemon extract for light-colored paints.
[4] Repurpose Old T-Shirts as Rags to Reduce Waste
Painting is a messy job, but using roll after roll of paper towels is neither efficient nor environmentally friendly.
[5] Keep Q-tips Handy for Mistakes
You’ve only got a few minutes to clean up messy paint before your mistake drys and becomes nearly impossible to remove.
[6] Use a Hair Dryer on Painter's Tape for Easy Removal
Holding a hair dryer about three inches from the wall will help soften the adhesive and ensure an even line, making removal a stress-free affair — and ensuring you keep that dreamy, crisp paint line.
Source: House Logic
John Castelli, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
(773) 851-7636