Ready, set, paint!

Walls ready for a refresh? A pro-level job starts with a perfectly prepped surface

The secret to a quality paint job is in the prep. Okay, it’s not the most glamorous part of the task, but it’s one step you won’t want to skip. The work you put in beforehand will deliver you a finish to be proud of and, with help from Selleys, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.

1. GET CLEANING

Start by washing your walls. Selleys Sugar Soap cuts through grease and grime (if only all cleaning was so easy!). Put down a drop cloth to protect your precious floors and pull on some rubber gloves. Remove any nails or hooks from the wall, then use sandpaper to sand over any rough or flaky bits. Dilute some Sugar Soap in a bucket with water (as per packet instructions) and use a cloth to wash off any dirt, dust and scuff marks. Done!

2. TACKLE DINGS

Don’t let dents and small cracks ruin your paint job. With a ready-to-use filler like Selleys Spakfilla Rapid, covering over the cracks is an easy job for any DIYer. Simply apply a small amount of Spakfilla Rapid to the included scraper and draw it across the hole or dent. Skim over the area in both directions a few times to push out air bubbles, then firmly draw down the surface, leaving a small amount of overfill. Allow to dry, as per pack instructions, then lightly sand smooth and brush off the dust.

3.

FILL THE GAPS

The last thing your beautifully painted walls need is a gappy border around every architrave, window or door frame. Selleys No More Gaps makes filling gaps so much easier, thanks to the easy-squeeze tube, and it’s great for getting into those awkward corners. Make sure you’re starting with a clean, dry surface – give it a wipe before you start. Cut the tip of the tube at a 45-degree angle and gently squeeze it into the gap. Use a wet finger to smooth over the top and clean up any excess with a damp cloth. Give it at least 20 minutes to dry before painting over it with water-based paint, or allow 24-48 hours if using ceiling or oil-based paints.

Now for the fun part: brushing colour on your beautifully prepped walls!