Techniques
How to Get Perfect Paint Lines Every Time: 5 Pro Tips for Clean Edges
Here are five science-backed tips to make your painting projects look like they were done by a pro.
How to Choose the Right Rollers and Brushes
Painting a room isn’t just about the quality of paint, but what tools you use. By investing in the right brushes and rollers, you can get the job done faster and with higher-quality coverage and a better finish.
Paint Brushes
- Natural: Natural Brushes are used for oil-based paints.
- Synthetic: FrogTape® works best with latex or water-based paints which are best applied with synthetic brushes. These brushes keep their shape and maintain stiffness no matter how much water they're exposed to.
- Smaller, angled brush is for cutting and trim work.
- Flat brush is great for molding.
- Larger brushes are used for painting corners or when you're covering larger surfaces.
- Tug on the bristles. If one or two bristles can be pulled out, the brush is poorly made.
- Hold the brush by the handle to make sure it feels comfortable in your hand.
Paint Rollers
- If you have a large, flat area to paint, like a wall or ceiling, rollers are a great option. A smaller roller is great for trimming or narrow areas, while larger rollers are great for interior walls or ceilings.
Smooth surfaces, like a wallboard, smooth plaster, wood or metal = Short-nap roller Rougher surfaces, like stucco, concrete brick or rough wood = Longer-nap roller.
Gloss and semi-gloss paints go on better with short-nap rollers because this generates fewer bubbles when you're rolling out the paint.
- Squeeze the roller cover. If the roller cover returns to its original shape, it's better quality.
- Choose a plastic "cage." A plastic cage can stand up better to the job and it's easier to clean.
- Cheaply made rollers can leave fibers and lint behind on the painted surface.
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Techniques
What Tape Is Safe to Use on Wallpaper?
When working on home improvement projects that involve wallpaper, protecting the surface is essential. Wallpaper can be delicate, and using the wrong kind of tape may lead to peeling, tearing or permanent damage. Here's how to choose the right tape and avoid costly mistakes.
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Techniques
When Should You Use FrogTape® Delicate Surface Painter’s Tape?
Painting projects can be transformative, but only if you protect your surfaces properly. One of the most important decisions you’ll make before picking up a brush is choosing the right painter’s tape. If you're working with delicate surfaces, FrogTape® Delicate Surface Painter’s Tape might be your best ally.