Essential Tools and Materials for Painting Projects

by DoItYourself Staff

Depending on the condition of the surfaces you're painting, the amount of prep work will vary. Here's a list of the supplies you may need:

Screwdrivers: Both Phillips and standard for removing wall plates and door hardware. Masking or painting over such things can be done, but never gives the best-looking result. Your standard screwdriver also comes in handy for opening paint cans.
Sandpaper: Make sure to have in coarse, medium and fine grades.
Patching Compound: Either premixed or powder form, for repairing cracks and holes.
Scraper/Putty Knife: Neccessary for applying compound, paint scraping, etc. on the walls.
Masking Tape: For protecting non-painted areas and holding down drop cloths. (You might also consider painting tape with its microbarrier edge to help prevent bleed-through; it works especially well on edges or corners where two different colors or finishes meet.)
Drop Cloths: Protect floors and furniture with plenty of these cloths. Choices range from inexpensive plastic "throwaways" to more durable plastic-coated paper to canvas.
Caulk: For filling open crevices around doors and windows.
Paint Tray: As well as disposable paint-tray liners to pour the neccessary paint to do the job without the hassle of a can.
5-Gallon Mixing Bucket: Perfect for stirring paint from multiple cans.
Clean Rags: These are neccessary for quick cleanups during the paint job or after the project is over.
Wall Cleaner and Sponge/Sponge Mop: Clean up surfaces of dust, cooking grease, soot or cigarette smoke prior to painting; thorough cleaning ensures the best result.