Patch and Repaint a Room Like a Pro

A fresh paint job is the single most transformative update you can make to a room. The difference between an amateur finish and a pro finish comes down to prep. This guide covers patching holes, sanding, priming, and cutting clean lines around trim and ceilings.

Step by step

1. 1

   Prep the room

   Move furniture to the center and cover it. Remove outlet covers and switch plates. Tape off trim, windows, and door frames.

2. 2

   Patch the damage

   Fill nail holes and small dings with spackle. Use a self-adhesive patch for holes larger than a quarter. Let dry fully.

3. 3

   Sand smooth

   Sand patches with 150 grit followed by 220. Knock down any ridges on the walls with a light pass of the sanding sponge.

4. 4

   Prime the patches

   Spot-prime patched areas so the finish coat dries evenly. Bare drywall and patches will flash through paint without primer.

5. 5

   Cut in the edges

   Use an angled brush to paint a 2-3" border along the ceiling, corners, and trim. Work in 6" sections and keep a wet edge.

6. 6

   Roll the walls

   Roll in a W pattern, then back-roll to even out coverage. Two coats with proper drying time will look dramatically better than one thick coat.