Cutting in around windows and doors when painting interior walls with a roller can be a bit tricky, but with the right technique, you can achieve clean and professional-looking results. Here's a step-by-step guide on the best way to cut in:
Materials you'll need:
- Paint roller with appropriate nap (length of fibers on the roller cover)
- Angled paintbrush (usually 2 to 2.5 inches wide)
- Painter's tape (optional but recommended)
- Drop cloth or old newspapers to protect the floor and surrounding area
- Paint tray
- Paint (latex or oil-based, depending on your wall type)
Step-by-step process:
Prepare the area: Move furniture away from the walls and cover the floor with a drop cloth or old newspapers to protect it from paint splatters.
Tape the edges (optional): While cutting in doesn't necessarily require painter's tape, it can be helpful, especially if you're not confident in your steady hand. Apply painter's tape along the edges of the window and door frames, baseboards, and any other areas you want to keep paint-free.
Dip the brush: Pour some paint into the paint tray and dip the angled paintbrush into the paint. Be sure not to overload the brush with too much paint to avoid drips.
Remove excess paint: Gently tap the brush against the side of the paint tray to remove any excess paint. This helps prevent drips and makes it easier to control the brush.
Start cutting in: Begin cutting in around the windows and doors. The term "cutting in" refers to carefully painting along the edges and corners of the surface you're painting without using a roller. Hold the brush at a slight angle to the wall, and use the pointed tip to create a straight line. Work slowly and steadily.
Work in small sections: Work in small sections, about 2-3 feet wide, at a time. This prevents the paint from drying too quickly while you're still working on it.
Keep a wet edge: To avoid visible brush strokes, try to maintain a "wet edge" while cutting in. This means overlapping each stroke slightly with the previous one to keep the paint from drying and creating visible lines.
Cut in around obstacles: When cutting in around obstacles like light switches and electrical outlets, be extra careful. If you're confident enough, you can paint right up to the edge of the cover plates. Otherwise, consider removing the cover plates before painting for a neater finish.
Cutting in above windows and doors: For the areas above windows and doors, use a steady hand to create a straight line. You can use a small step ladder to reach higher areas safely.
Check your work: After finishing each section, step back and inspect your work for any missed spots or uneven lines. Touch up as needed.
Roll the walls: Once you have completed the cutting in, use a paint roller to cover the larger, open areas of the walls. Roll the paint onto the wall in overlapping "W" or "N" shaped strokes for even coverage.
Allow the paint to dry: Follow the paint manufacturer's instructions regarding drying time between coats. It's essential to let the paint dry completely before adding a second coat or removing any painter's tape.
By following these steps, you can achieve a professional-looking paint job with clean edges and well-painted windows and doors. Practice and patience are key, especially if you're new to painting, but the results will be well worth the effort.