How to paint walls: the final coat yourself: step by step

Now that all install work is done, the second coat gives the even color. The first coat is always patchy — that is normal.

Difficulty 2 of 5 · about half a day · you can do this

Photo of your room, the look you pick, then this guide with the materials counted for your room.

Tools

Step 1 of 7
Cut in the corners, ceiling line, and around windows and doors
Same as the first coat. Brush every edge before rolling.
Step 2 of 7
Roll in 3×3 ft sections, W pattern, then even out top to bottom
No pressure on the final strokes.
Step 3 of 7
Keep a wet edge, one wall in one pass
This is the coat that gives the even color.
Step 4 of 7
Step back and check for misses and drips
Every 2–3 sections, from 6 ft away, at an angle.
Step 5 of 7
Pull the tape at 45° while the paint is still slightly soft
Along the line, not away from the wall.
Step 6 of 7
Put the cover plates back, remove the floor protection
Furniture goes back no sooner than 24 hours.
Step 7 of 7
Final check with a flashlight at an angle
No misses, no drips, no roller marks, no brush lines in the corners.

Second coat too soon. The roller lifts the first coat. Wait the recoat time on the can.
Pulling tape after full dry. Ragged edge. Pull at 45° along the line while the paint is still slightly soft.