Don’ts:

1. Skip surface preparation: Neglecting to prepare the surface can result in poor adhesion and an uneven finish.
2. Use cheap, low-quality paint: Cheap paint may save money in the short-term, but it will not last as long and will not provide good coverage.
3. Paint in direct sunlight: Painting in direct sunlight can cause the paint to dry too quickly and result in an uneven finish.
4. Apply paint too thickly: Too much paint can take longer to dry, and may also result in drips and sags.
5. Overlap wet paint: Overlapping wet paint can cause streaking and an uneven finish.
6. Neglect to wear protective gear: Paint fumes can be harmful to your health, so make sure to wear a mask and gloves when painting.

Misconceptions:

1. Darker colors require more coats: The number of coats needed depends on the color and the quality of the paint, not the darkness of the color.
2. Paint dries to the same color it looks when wet: Paint often dries to a slightly different shade than it appears when wet, so it’s important to test the color on a small area first.
3. Latex paint is always water-based: While most latex paints are water-based, some are oil-based, so be sure to check the label before purchasing.
4. Paint can hide all imperfections: Paint can help improve the look of a surface, but it cannot hide all imperfections. In some cases, it may be necessary to make repairs to the surface before painting.

Do’s:

1. Prepare the surface to be painted: Clean the walls, remove any old paint, sand rough areas, and fill any cracks or holes with spackling compound.
2. Use high-quality paint and primer: Invest in good paint, as it will last longer and provide better coverage.
3. Use the right tools: A high-quality brush and roller can make a big difference in the final result.
4. Apply paint in thin, even coats: It’s better to apply several thin coats than one thick coat, as this will help the paint dry evenly.
5. Let each coat dry thoroughly: Before applying the next coat, make sure the previous one has dried completely.
6. Clean up after painting: Clean all brushes, rollers, and other tools thoroughly and dispose of any excess paint properly.