Surface preparation
Before you begin painting, be sure to remove all fixtures and hardware off your walls such as light switches and lighting fixtures. If there is some hardware that can't be moved, just cover it with plastic.

The next step is to remove any peeling, wrinkled, flaking or chipped or paint with a paint scraper. Fill any small cracks or holes with a spackling compound. The spackling usually shrinks when it dries, you may need to re-apply some. While the spackle is drying, caulk all joints especially near windows and doors. After the spackle is completely dry, use sand paper to even it with the rest of the wall.

To complete the surface preparation, be sure to clean all surfaces that will be painted. Apply a primer to areas that were painted with a lighter or darker colour then with what you selected as your new colour, as well as areas that you patched up.

Painting
After selecting your desired type and colour of paint you're ready to go. If you are unsure of the type or colour best suited for you, visit the experts at Jas-Mar and we will assist you in any way possible.

Begin with the ceiling and start at the far corner from the door, and work your way towards the door. Allowing the painted surface to dry at different times may cause visible lap marks, so plan to finish the entire surface in one session.

Use a trim brush to paint the edges of the ceiling and around fixtures. Then use a roller or thick brush to paint a 6' X 6' area. Rotate between the two to allow a wet edge to overlap with. When using the roller, paint in a "M" shape to give a nice, smooth painted, surface. Be sure to lift the roller before you finish your stroke to avoid any roller marks on your surface.

Paint the walls using the same methods as for the ceiling. Start the wall at the top, near the ceiling and work your way down, again starting at the far end, furthest from the door. Use a paint shield, masking tape or plastic covering to cover the edge of the carpet from any paint.

Cleaning
Remove all of the access paint from your brush and roller to avoid the paint from drying and ruining your brush or roller. If the paint is a latex based paint, wash the brush or roller using warm soapy water, then thoroughly rinse them with water. If the paint is alkyd-based, then soak the brushes and rollers in paint solvent and then, using latex gloves, rinse them. Use the same method for the paint tray and other tools covered in paint. Rinse thoroughly and remove all access water. Allow them to dry and store in a safe place. Use the same methods for any paint-soaked wiping cloths and then dispose of them in the trash.