Addicted to TikTok makeover videos? Here’s how to paint your home like a pro

Scrolling through social media reveals a surge in DIY home renovation videos, a trend that has become even more popular as recent events like the pandemic and ongoing global unrest have brought us back into our homes. Now is the time to turn your living space into a beautiful retreat.

The makeover videos of non-professionals renovating their own homes have swept across social media. Over the past few years, we’ve come to realize just how important it is for our homes to feel inviting, relaxing, and comfortable. More people are taking on DIY home projects to upgrade their living spaces, and you can too. But how do you ensure your work looks professional, not messy? Where should you even start? We’ve got you covered with a clear guide.

Painting is one of the quickest, most effective ways to refresh your home and give it a new, vibrant look. Whether you’re planning to paint just one room or your entire home, proper preparation and the right techniques will ensure a professional, stunning result. Starting with the walls is ideal, as they set the tone for your home’s overall aesthetic. Here are five key tips from Tambour’s experts to make your DIY painting project a success—from wall prep to finishing touches, this guide will give you the skills to achieve a professional look with ease and enjoyment.

1. Wall Preparation: The Key to a Perfect Paint Job

Successful painting starts with thorough surface preparation. Before you pick up a brush, spend time cleaning and filling cracks or holes with suitable filler. Then, lightly sand the wall to remove bumps and smooth the surface. Clean the wall thoroughly to remove dust and grime using a damp cloth or vacuum. If you encounter peeling walls, use a putty knife to remove old paint and fill holes and cracks as needed with a compound like “Klissimo.” Apply a bonding primer to create a strong layer for the acrylic paint or other interior paint to adhere to. In cases of mold stains, treat them with an appropriate solution before painting. Remember, good preparation ensures excellent paint adhesion and long-lasting results.

2. Proper Use of Masking Tape and Surrounding Protection

Masking tape is essential for precise, clean painting. Apply it along the borders of the painting area, pressing firmly to prevent paint bleed. Choose tape specifically for painting to avoid damage to surfaces. Also, protect the area by covering floors with thick plastic sheets, securing them to prevent slipping. For furniture that can’t be moved, use plastic sheets or old sheets for coverage. Investing in proper protection will save you time on post-painting cleanup and ensure a professional finish.

3. Effective Techniques for Roller and Brush Use

Correctly using a roller and brush is vital for a professional finish. It’s recommended to use high-quality paints, like Tambour’s "Supercryl" series. Start with the corners and edges, applying paint with a quality brush, then follow with a mini roller before the paint dries to ensure even texture and color. For the main wall areas, use an extension rod for the roller, especially for high spots. Paint in long, even vertical strokes from bottom to top with slight overlap. Work with a “W technique” by making a large W on the wall and filling it in, then smooth the paint with gentle top-to-bottom strokes. Always paint towards the last wet area to avoid overlapping marks.

4. Mixing Paint and Helpful Usage Tips

To maintain a consistent color, mix all paint cans in one large bucket. Open all cans, verify that the colors match, and pour them into the bucket, stirring thoroughly with a stir stick or electric mixer. Cover the bucket between uses to prevent drying. For easy cleanup, line the paint tray with layers of aluminum foil—just fold and discard the foil after use. For reusable trays, rinse them out as needed. Tip: To keep the paint can rim clean, punch small holes around its edge to let excess paint flow back in, preventing buildup on the rim.

5. Professional Finish and Final Tips

For optimal results, select high-quality paint that suits the surface type and room conditions. Paint in a well-ventilated space and at a comfortable temperature. Don’t forget to use personal protective equipment like goggles and gloves. Once finished, wait at least 24 hours for the paint to fully dry before removing the masking tape. For easy and clean removal, use a utility knife to create a thin cut line between the tape and paint, then pull the tape away at a 45-degree angle. Clean tools and hands immediately after completing the job. Keep leftover paint for future touch-ups.

Here’s an extra tip: Taking a break mid-project or painting multiple rooms? Place the brush or roller you’re using in a plastic bag, seal it tightly, and store it in the fridge. This prevents the paint from drying on the brush, so you can pick up right where you left off, even hours or a day later.

With the right preparation, tools, and technique, you can achieve impressive, professional results in your DIY home painting project.