One of the easiest and most effective ways to reinvigorate your living space is to paint! However, painting is not without it’s pitfalls and there isn’t a do-it-yourselfer out there who isn’t familiar with the a least a couple of the potential frustrations inherent in the process. Following are a couple of painting pro tips for a pain free painting experience.

Reduce Paint Odor with Vanilla and Lemon!

A newly painted room is definitely something to be excited about so why let the smell ruin your enjoyment. Add a couple drops of vanilla, natural and synthetic are both fine, per gallon of paint to significantly reduce the unwanted smell. For lighter paints use lemon juice to avoid any color alteration.

Wrap it Up

When masking tape isn’t enough to ensure peace of mind try using plastic wrap. When painting around furniture, appliances etc. it is necessary to exercise a little extra caution and take time to prep the area first.

Whether it’s a toilet, stove, or standalone sink plastic wrap will prevent later frustrations and provide for a more worry free painting experience. For those who want a little extra security grab some adhesive backed painters wrap at your local hardware store.

Wait for Dry Weather

Although a lazy rainy day may seem like the perfect time to finally get that project done, you’re better off waiting for a little bit of sunshine. Humidity will mean more drips and a slower drying time. If you’re dead set on painting anyway make sure to take your time. It can be tempting to overwork paint to correct errors but it is best to avoid this as well.

Box your paint

Instead of make your purchases a gallon at a time enlist a salesperson to help with a realistic estimate of how much paint you will need. Once purchased combine all the paint in larger container and mix thoroughly. This is called “boxing” and it will ensure that color remains consistent throughout your space.

Use a Hairdryer for Painters Tape

You’ve been hard at work all day painting. Once it’s finally dry you remove the painter’s tape to admire your handywork and what happens? Half the paint comes with it. There are few things more frustrating. To avoid this all too common problem grab a hair dryer (low heat) and hold it about three inches from the tape. The goal is just to loosen the adhesive so avoid spending too much time on any one spot.