Paint Roller Techniques and Tips

Paint faster and smoother with the right rolling techniques

By Jeff Gorton

From The Family Handyman

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Overview and Preparation

Step-by-Step Instructions and Pictures of Paint Roller Techniques and Tips

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Here's a simple method to quickly spread a smooth, even coat of latex paint on your walls. It gets the job done in record time and eliminates common problems like light areas, roller marks and built-up ridges that sometimes plague first-time painters. We'll also show you the best painting tools for the job.

Most of you have probably used paint rollers before, with varying degrees of success. Maybe you just plunged right in and started rolling, developing your own technique as you went. Or maybe you read the instructions telling you to apply the paint in some pattern, usually a “W,” before rolling it out. We’re going to show you a slightly different approach. In this article, we’ll teach you a simple method to quickly spread a smooth, even coat of latex paint on the wall. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done in record time and eliminates common problems like light areas, roller marks and built-up ridges that sometimes plague first-time painters.

However, even the best technique won’t work with poor-quality equipment. Don’t waste your money on those all-in-one throw-away roller setups when you can buy a pro setup that will last a lifetime for under $20. Start with a good roller frame. The one I like (the Wooster Sherlock, $10 at paint stores) is sturdy and designed to keep the roller cover from slipping off while you paint. To extend your reach and give you better control, screw a 48-in. wood handle ($3) onto the end of the roller. You could also use a threaded broom handle.

You’ll need a container for the paint. While most homeowners use paint trays, you’ll rarely see a pro using one. That’s because a 5-gallon bucket with a special bucket screen hung over the edge works a lot better.

Here are a few of the advantages of a bucket and screen over a roller pan:

It’s easy to move the bucket without spilling.
The bucket holds more paint. You won’t have to frequently refill a pan.
You’re less likely to trip over or step in a bucket of paint.
It’s quicker and easier to load the roller cover with paint from a bucket.
It’s easy to cover a bucket with a damp cloth to prevent the paint from drying out while you’re taking a lunch break.

Use an old drywall compound bucket or buy a clean new bucket for about $3. Add a $2 bucket screen and you’re ready to go.