What supplies do I need?

Question

I am going to paint my daughters rooms, what are the necessary things for this job. I have not painted since I lived at home with my dad and of course then never paid attention to what he had. I don't want to get rooked at the hardware store and buy things we don't really need. So what brushes/rollers are needed and how many.

Answer 1

I’m assuming that as a novice painter you are going to focus on painting the walls only, not the door & window, casing, and trim.  I’d suggest that you get the following: 5 gallon bucket; a grid (hangs at an angle inside the bucket); both a standard size and mini roller cage and “skins” (the disposable portion that the paint goes on).  You’ll also want to get a hand masker with tape (stick with “Scotch” or other quality brand – 1” wide) and masking paper along with decent brush – I’d suggest using a sash brush (angled bristles) that’s about 2 ½” wide.

Finally, you’ll need a wire brush to clean your paint brush – you can just toss the roller skins.

For “drops” (drop clothes) you can use old sheets, towels, and light weight blankets – skip the plastic as the wet paint will more easily be transferred to your foot & beyond when you step on it.

All of the above will cost you about $35.00 to $50.00 if purchased from a big box store; somewhat more if you buy from a local place that offers better quality help and advice than is often available from the aforementioned place.  All will be useable for the next painting project as well.

One additional caveat: Use decent quality latex paint as the labor’s about the same with all paints (actually somewhat easier with a premium paint) and the job will last longer and look better with quality material.

Answer 2

You need masking tape for around the windows and doors. You need a dropcloth to keep paint off the floor, I always use old sheets. One roller is all you need. The kind of roller depends on the texture of the wall. If it's smooth, use a short napped roller (it looks smooth) and use a longer nap (it looks rougher like lambs wool maybe) if  the walls are rough. You need a paint tray and a smaller paintbrush for around the edges. I like a 3 inch brush

Answer 3

1. paint  READ the instructions on the can so you get the proper accessories. (Some specify either foam or bristle brushes) AND a opener to open can and a hammer to reseal it unless it has a s***w on lid.

2. mixing paddle, manual or power. (If power then drill motor to drive it)

3. roller set, (usually has 3 covers in set)  The covers are reusable in most cases if cleaned, and best disposed of when finished as they are NOT expensive.

4. 2" brush, (foam or bristle depending on paint used), for working around trim (window frames) and in corners.

5. cleaning material for rollers and bristle brushes, type depends on paint. (Foam brushes are so cheap, you just throw them away.)

6. plastic dropcloth to put down to catch drips, and YOU WILL HAVE DRIPS!!