Getting your equipment right for the type of project you are tackling is an important first step. Here the team at Harris paint brushes explains their top tips for the best finish
(Image credit: Harris)
Whether you are doing a spot of redecorating and improvement, going all out for the complete makeover, or putting your first decorative stamp on a new build, successful painting is all about smooth finish and good coverage.
And for that you need the right tools. In fact, whichever kinds of paint and woodcare products you choose, investing in the best quality application kit, including different brushes and rollers for different areas is a game-changing starting point.
So says Harris one of the market's leader in decorating tools. Not only will initial outlay pay off in terms of tools that last for years if cared for properly, but you will ensure satisfying results and a great finish – including neat edges even in tricky areas – but also indoor and outdoor perfection in the shortest possible time. And don’t forget, Harris is known for its patented Harris NO-LOSSTM technology - which means no more worrying about loose bristles spoiling the finish!
As most experienced decorators know the key starting point is thorough preparation.
How to prepare for painting with Harris brushes
(Image credit: Harris)
Harris says begin by laying a Double Protection Dust Sheet on the floor in your work area. To ensure a smooth surface for painting, remove any old, flakey paint, varnish, or paper. Also repair any holes or cracks in plaster or gouges in wood at this stage.
The Harris Ultimate range includes tools for preparing and repairing flat and curved surfaces, all with soft grip handles for easy working. There’s also a selection of sanding blocks, suitable for use on wood, plaster, plastic, and metal and all flexible enough to cope with curves. Even bare wood or plaster should be sanded for better paint adhesion.
Next, take a damp Microfibre Cloth to remove any lingering dust. Finally tape off any areas you do not want to paint, using Harris UV Masking Tape for sharp edges without seepage. Suitable for wood, plaster, metal, glass, and PVC, it’s easy to apply and remove.
The Harris ultimate range for walls and ceilings
(Image credit: Harris)
Always start with the edges. The most important thing is to use a paint brush designed for ‘cutting in’ – which means painting edges – such as the corner of the room, round light switches, window frames, up to skirting boards etc. The Harris Ultimate Walls & Ceilings Blade Brush is perfect with its tapered bristles to create an edge as thin as a blade, giving absolute control.
Start your painting with the Blade brush and work in 1m segments placing its wide tip against the edge and pulling the paint along. Then use the Blade brush as normal to create 5-10 cm of painting in from there. With the edge complete, switch to the Harris Ultimate Powercoat Roller for fast coverage on large areas.
Start a foot from where you’ve cut in. For a fine finish with no ‘framing,’ use a W motion to overlap the area painted first without touching the actual edge. Harris can also supply extension poles for hard-to-reach areas as well as specially angled brushes for corners and awkward areas.
Using specialist Harris brushes for woodwork
(Image credit: Harris)
Smaller scale woodwork can be fiddly so get a selection of brush shapes and sizes. The Harris Ultimate range of woodwork brushes includes flat, round, and angled brushes for flat surfaces, curves, and spindles and for really tricky areas, triangular and angled brushes.
For a flawless result on woodwork, apply primer to prevent stains coming through, using an Ultimate Angled Gloss Brush following the grain.
Leave to dry. Then lightly sand using Ultimate Fine Sandpaper and wipe down.
Using the Harris Ultimate Angled Gloss Brush apply the topcoat of gloss, eggshell or satin, painting the with the grain. The Ultimate Angled Brush head will cut in at the top of a skirting board or edge of a window frame while providing the finest possible finish. When finishing, lightly brush – called laying off – to ensure a smooth, glass-like result.
More 'how to' advice with the Harris team
Harris is the leading brand in DIY painting and decorating tools ad techniques and there are lots of project specific videos and step by steps on their website https://harrisbrushes.com/how-to/ which cover all your decorating needs.
With a historic pedigree for designing and manufacturing paint brushes, rollers, preparation, clean up and wallpapering tools, and commitment to new product development, Harris creates ranges and kits which are easy to understand and access in store, while covering all the different types of decorating project you can imagine.
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