The Fogue Abode

It's been quiet and relaxing around the Abode the past couple of weekends.  I have this bad habit of burning myself out from doing too much.  Hence the lack of post lately.  It really is a nasty habit that I need to learn to control better.  My excitement just over energizes me and I'm totally a "need it now" type person. 

While I'm over here trying to find my inner zin, I figured I would grace you with my 5 painting tips I've learned along the way as well as a couple of my go to paint products that will totally change the way you paint. 

1. There's power in the angle!

My go to paint brush has always been the Purdy 2" Angle XL brush.  It's a quality brush that makes cutting in like slicing butter.  Thanks to this little wonder brush, I never use painters tape.

2. Put those plastic bags to use

I like to use plastic bags to cover my paint tray for a quick and easy clean up.  The bags help to remove the excess paint when loading your brush.  Then, once the project is done, roll it up and toss it in the trash.

3. Nail polish remover isn't just for your fingers

Because we don't have carpet, I hardly ever unroll the plastic tarps(unless I'm protecting some furniture.)  I'm usually pretty neat when painting, I'll use a trash bag to put the tray and paint can on, but other than that, I leave it bare floor.  If I ever do have an accident, I've found that simple fingernail polish remover easily removes the paint dribbles.  If they dry, you can usually just chip it away.

4. Always mix your paint by hand

I learned this lesson the hard way during my latest paint project.  I came straight home from the paint store and applied the first coat.  I did a quick stir between fill ups. When I started applying my second coat, I was in shock to see my walls were all different shades.  This caused me to painfully apply a 3rd and then a 4th coat of paint.  So, learn from my mistake, stir stir stir.

5. Samples are your friend

I don't mind spending $5 for a sample quart of paint for each of my room colors.  These are great if you ever have to make a quick touch up and they are small enough that I can store in a cabinet.  It's also an easy way for me to keep track with my paint colors as I'll note on the lid where each one is used. 

I hope these few tips help you out along your painting journeys.  Lastly, here are the only 4 items you will ever need to complete a successful paint job!  Trust me. 


No go forth, paint and be colorful my friend!


 
1. Purdy 2" Angle XL brush
2. Standard Nap Roller
3. Handy Paint Tray
4. Handy Paint Pail