We’ve rounded out the ultimate list of everything you need to paint a room from paint brushes to tape and everything in between.
Why? Because tools matter, especially when you’re dealing with paint. If you’ve ever painted before, then you’re probably quite aware that when it comes to painting, everything that can go wrong will go wrong if you’re not careful.
Unfortunately, I’ve been there one too many times — from spilling an entire can of paint on my new carpets (rookie mistake) to using the wrong tape that ultimately wouldn’t pull away from the wall. I’ve had paint splatter everywhere and roller sticks break. (I blame my brute strength on that one.) Simply put, painting ain’t easy. But tools can, and do help!
Do you want to know all the tools needed for painting a room or your entire house? Here’s the ultimate painting supplies checklist.
The Ultimate Painting Supplies Checklist
This painting materials list includes some of the best tools needed paint everything from a small cabinet to the entire exterior of your home.
Photo by Budimir Jevtic on Adobe Stock
Tried-and-True Favorites
Angled 3-inch Brush: Look for a brush made of a blend of polyester and nylon, which is a great mix for both indoor and outdoor applications. Just remember to follow the cleaning instructions. Most often, this involves rinsing vigorously with clean warm water and mild soap (I always use my liquid dish soap) and then drying on a paper towel. Once clean and dry, place the brush directly back into its original cardboard shell.
Photo by juliko77 on Adobe Stock
Tape: Some homeowners swear by tape while others prefer to use edgers. I’m a fan of tape (except when I use the wrong kind, of course). When it comes to painting tape, price often has a direct correlation with quality. I suggest either Scotch Blue Tape or Frog Tape, because both brands are easy to apply and a cinch to remove.
Photo by Kadmy on Adobe Stock
Wool Roller Cover: I’ve tried almost every paint roller out there and, hands down, the wool ones work the best. They apply evenly, hold paint well, and clean more easily than their polyester/nylon counterparts. Many professionals recommend wool rollers for oil-based paint applications, but I found they also work well with latex varieties.
Photo by Rolaks on Dreamstime
Handy Paint Cup: Instead of lugging around the entire paint can, pour some into this handheld container. Aside from the “handy” ergonomic handle, it also includes a magnet to hold your paintbrush.
New & Improved Painting Tools & Accessories
18-inch Rollers: Did you know that there are rollers on the market that essentially do double- duty? I just noticed 18-inch paint rollers at my home improvement store and I just had to buy one. Guess what? It actually worked! With an 18-inch roller, you cover double the space in the same amount of time. It’s the perfect tool when you need to paint a large space such as garage walls or your living room ceiling.
Stain Applicator Pads: Wood stain is stickier and thinner than paint and, more often than not, it seeps right through a paintbrush. Instead of dealing with a potential mess, use wood stain applicator pads. These pads come in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on what you’re staining
Edger/Edger Roller: Edges are a big problem for many DIYers. I like to use both tape and an edger or edger roller. Both of these tools help to create a straight, even line, whether you’re framing the ceiling or molding.
Touch-Up Painter: Paint touch ups usually require a significant effort. You have to shake the can, open it up, mix it some more, and dirty some brushes and rollers in the process. However, there’s a new tool in town that can dramatically cut down on all those steps—the touch-up painter. Shur-Line makes a great product that stores the paint in a small canister. When the time comes to touch up your paint, simply remove the cap and roll away.
Photo by Serenethos on Dreamstime
To round out your ultimate painting supply checklist, don’t forget the following:
– Canvas or strong plastic drop cloth
– Paint thinner for potential paint mishaps
Photo by lakov Filimonov on Dreamstime
– Buckets or paint trays
Photo by Benoit Daoust on Dreamstime
– Personal protection equipment such as a safety mask if you’re working with paint that isn’t low or no VOCs (volatile organic compounds), gloves, and protective clothing.
Photo by Mikko Lemola on Adobe Stock
As you’re contemplating new interior design ideas, consider paint to help spruce up your space. While the investment in paint and the best paint supplies may seem a bit steep, the result is well worth it. Paint is truly transformative and you can do it yourself with some investment and a bit of elbow grease.
Photo by gilles lougassi on Adobe Stock