High-quality application tools are essential for an even paint finish. The tools you choose will depend on the size and type of job you are planning.

Brushes

Paintbrushes are the most versatile and essential of all decorating tools. Ease of application and a successful finish are hugely affected by the quality of a brush. Remember, whether you choose natural or synthetic bristle brushes, a good brush is not cheap, and should have long bristles of equal length. It is normal for a brush to shed a few bristles when it is first used, however, this should not continue through the life of a brush.

Pure Bristle Brushes (image 1)
Good-quality pure bristle brushes are expensive but will last for years if they are cleaned well and stored properly after each use.

Fitches (image 2)
These are used for detailed work. The angled lining fitch is useful for straight lines.

Synthetic Bristle Brushes (image 3)
Although brushes made from pure natural bristle used to be considered superior quality, vast improvements have been made to synthetic bristle brushes and they are now used by most professionals.

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Protection Materials

It is ideal to remove all the furniture and floor coverings from a room before decorating. However, this is often impractical, so drop cloths and tape are used to prevent splashes and spillages damaging surfaces.

Tape (image 1)
Use low-tack tape to protect surfaces and help you create clean, straight lines where areas with different finishes meet.

Fabric Drop Cloth (image 2)
These sheets can be washed and reused, but large spills soak through. Plastic sheets are an alternative, but are easily damaged and slippery underfoot on floors.

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DK - Do It Yourself Home Improvement © 2010 Dorling Kindersley Limited

Painting Accessories

Besides the more obvious painting tools such as brushes and rollers, there are other items that can be used to make the job easier, restore tools and provide the best finish.

Paint Kettle (image 1)
Decant paint into kettle so it is easier to carry and to keep debris such as dried paint on the brush from contaminating the main tin or tub.

Brush Comb (image 2)
Used to clean and shape brushes.

Dusting Brush (image 3)
Fine bristles remove debris from a surface before painting.

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DK - Do It Yourself Home Improvement © 2010 Dorling Kindersley Limited

Sprayers

Paint sprayers can be used to cover large surfaces quickly, or for intricate areas that are very time-consuming to paint with a brush. Small hand-held airless sprayers are most suitable for DIY work, although much larger airless or compressed-air sprayers can be rented. Sprayers can be dangerous, so always read the manufacturer’s instructions very carefully. Wear any protective clothing specified and ensure good ventilation while you are spraying. For small jobs, it is better to buy aerosol paints.

Courtesy of DK - Do It Yourself Home Improvement © 2010 Dorling Kindersley Limited