Before You Start Painting – Preparation Checklist

1. Tools & Equipment

• Paint Brushes – Various sizes for corners, trims, and detailed areas

• Paint Rollers & Trays – Wide rollers for large surfaces, smaller ones for tight spots

• Extension Poles – For ceilings or tall walls

• Paint Can Opener & Stirring Sticks – To mix paint evenly before use

2. Surface Preparation

• Sandpaper or Sanding Block – To smooth surfaces and remove old paint flakes

• Putty Knife & Filler – For filling cracks, holes, or imperfections

• Primer – Suitable for the surface type (wood, metal, plaster, etc.)

• Cleaning Supplies – Mild detergent, sponge, and cloth for dust/grease removal

3. Protection Materials

• Drop Cloths or Plastic Sheets – To protect floors and furniture

• Painter’s Tape – For masking edges and trims

• Masking Paper – For windows, baseboards, and fixtures

4. Safety Gear

• Gloves – To protect hands from paint and chemicals

• Safety Glasses – To prevent splashes in eyes

• Mask or Respirator – Especially when using oil-based or high-VOC paints

• Protective Clothing – Old clothes or overalls

5. Paint & Extras

• Selected Paint – Correct type (interior/exterior, finish, color) for the project

• Extra Brushes/Rollers – For switching colors or backup during large jobs

• Buckets – For mixing larger batches or cutting in edges