Paint Like a Pro 

Paintbrush and canWendell T. Webber

Yes, you can paint your house yourself. Learn trade secrets and easy steps to painting. Plus, get inspired by easy paint makeovers.

Painting Supplies Checklist

Everything you need for a problem-free paint job: Get ready to roll. 

  • Tape measure. Measure walls first so you’ll know how much paint to buy. Typically, one gallon of paint covers 400 square feet.

    Related: The Right Tape Measure for the Task at Hand

  • Primer. Use a primer with a stain blocker.
  • Stirrer. Usually comes free with any paint purchase. Always stir paint before applying.

View The Entire Checklist

How To: Paint a Wall

Getting ready to paint? Don't skip the prep work: A properly primed surface makes all the difference to the end result. And once the walls are primed, you're just hours away from enjoying your room's makeover. Here's how to make both parts of the job a snap.

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Quick Tip

Color-match computers (free at stores like Lowe's) can scan fabric and kick out a paint formula in seconds.

Yellow paint bucket