Home Home Improvement Painting Painting Supplies Checklist Everything you need for a problem-free paint job: Get ready to roll. By Real Simple Editors Real Simple Editors Facebook Instagram Twitter An article attributed to "Real Simple Editors" indicates a collaborative effort from our in-house team. Sometimes, several writers and editors have contributed to an article over the years. These collaborations allow us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information available.The REAL SIMPLE team strives to make life easier for you. They are experts in their fields who research, test and clearly explain the best recipes, strategies, trends and products. They have worked for some of the most prestigious brands in lifestyle journalism, including Apartment Therapy, Better Homes & Gardens, Food & Wine, the Food Network, Good Housekeeping, InStyle, Martha Stewart Living, O: The Oprah Magazine, Parents, POPSUGAR, Rachel Ray Every Day, and Vogue. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on September 10, 2021 Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: Papercut Tape measureMeasure walls first so you'll know how much paint to buy. Typically, one gallon of paint covers 400 square feet.PrimerUse a primer with a stain blocker.StirrerUsually comes free with any paint purchase. Always stir paint before applying.Pouring spoutAttach the spout to a gallon of paint and pour without any mess.Five-gallon bucketFor big jobs that require multiple gallons of paint, keep the color consistent by mixing all the cans in a large bucket.Screen.Place this inside the bucket to wipe any excess paint off the roller.Roller tray.Use a metal or sturdy plastic tray for smaller projects.Roller cover.A 3/8-inch nap provides the best finish for most interior walls.Angled sash paintbrush.To paint trim, use a two-inch angled brush, which will give you more control.Blue painter's tape.Essential for protecting trim or walls that you don't want to get paint on.Drop clothsProtect furniture with plastic coverings. Place a reusable canvas drop cloth, which is less slippery than plastic, on the floor.Hole fillerQuicker than spackling: Dab hole filler into small holes in the wall.ScrewdriverUse to loosen any ceiling plates of lighting fixtures and remove switch plates before painting.SpongeBefore priming, wash the walls with a few drops of dishwashing detergent mixed with water. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit