7 Tricks to Painting Like a Pro

Prep First, Paint Later

Set aside some time to prepare the room the evening before you plan on painting.

• Clear the room of furniture and décor.
• Sand and patch walls.
• Remove all switch plates and outlet covers, and place the screws and plates into separate plastic bags. Label the bags to remind you where they came from. I have lost plenty of those tiny screws, and this tip makes it easier and faster to remove and reinstall hardware.
• Cover the floors with old sheets or drop cloths.
• Most importantly, tape any areas that need to be carefully trimmed, like around windows, doors and moldings.