Painting Techniques for Already Painted Walls

Sand

• Sanding is an important part of surface preparation. It removes old stains, scuffs and marks, as well as smooths out any minor scratches or rough-feeling areas. A high-grit sandpaper, such as 800-grit, is sufficient enough to remove surface marks without going so deep through the paint as to leave scratch marks everywhere. Sanding also removes any gloss from the old paint; glossy finishes have to be removed before new paint is applied, or you risk paint failure. Work the sandpaper in a circular motion on the wall, completing one section at a time, until the area is even and free from surface marks or shine. Avoid getting contaminants into the new paint, and use a damp rag to wash away sanding dust. Wait for the walls to dry before continuing.

Primer

• Primer is used to protect walls and seal any porous surfaces. Primer protects surfaces from damage caused by moisture, which is commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms. Primer also covers old paint and gives new finishes an even surface. Some paints are formulated with a primer so you can apply paint in a one-step process. If you are using a separate primer, apply it just as you would paint, working one section at a time in an up-and-down motion. If necessary, use a second coat, but always wait for the primer to dry in between applications.

Paint

• Paint is available in a variety of sheens, from flat to high-gloss. Your use of the paint determines what sheen you need to apply. Flat sheens are recommended for low-traffic areas, such as closets and ceilings, while high-traffic areas require more durable finishes, such as semi-gloss or high-gloss. Paint spreads more easily with high-quality tools, so avoid low-cost ones to prevent brush strokes or uneven applications. Quality is also an important factor in paint choices as low quality paints tend to need more coats to cover walls, increasing your painting time.

Decorative Finishes

• Many decorative techniques can be easily applied by painting novices. Sponge painting is a technique applied by using a natural sea sponge to dab paint all over a surface, creating a light texture on the walls. Crackle finishes give walls an old and worn look and require a special crackling gloss to complete the method. Simple decorative finishes normally need two colors, one to use as a base and one for a top coat. Your colors will depend on your style. For example, if you want a modern look, use complementary colors, such as green and purple. If you prefer a country or subtle style, combine white with shades of cream.