Painting is an easy DIY project but the process of preparation, applying and cleaning can be messy and tedious. Use these handy tips to keep your workspace organized and orderly.

1. Prepare workspace

Before you start your paint project, take the time to clear out small furniture and move large furniture to the middle of the room. Cover light fixtures and mask off everything that you don’t want painted. The goal is to have a clear path along the room perimeter that will allow you to easily move from wall to wall without having to stop.

2. Make a plan

If you are painting the ceiling, start there and completely finish that job before continuing. Then paint the trim with the first coat of paint. Next paint the edges and corners of the walls followed by the large wall area. Repeat the process with the second coat of wall paint. As you move around the room, move the paint tray so you have easy access.

3. Drop cloths

Use large drop cloths if you are painting the ceiling and make sure everything is covered to prevent paint splatter. Use narrow drop cloths 3-4 feet wide for painting walls. The smaller width is easier to move around the room and will be less of a tripping hazard. Use plastic drop cloths to cover furniture and canvas for the floor.

4. Paint brush duster

Paint brushes will eventually wear out no matter how good you clean them. An old paint brush that is no longer good enough for painting makes a great duster. Use them for removing dust from the tops of doors, window trim and on any nooks and crannies. Use a large brush for bigger areas and a small brush for detail work.

5. Wear a rag

Tuck the end of a clean rag into your belt or waistband and use it on the go to keep your hands clean. You can work very carefully and you’ll still have a few paint drips to deal with. Keeping a rag handy allows you to clean up immediately instead of stopping to get a rag or leaving it until later and then forgetting about it.

6. Keep a garbage bag close

It’s surprising how much trash there is for a painting job. Having a garbage bag in the room allows you to have somewhere in the immediate vicinity to put big wads of masking tape covered in wet paint. Hang the garbage bag on a doorknob or use a portable bag holder.

7. Apply lotion

To avoid scrubbing your skin to remove paint, generously apply body lotion to exposed skin before you start painting. The oil in the lotion creates a barrier that allows paint splatters and drips to rinse off easily. This is especially important when painting ceilings where paint tends to splatter on your face as you are looking up.

8. Keep the can neat

Constantly pouring paint from the paint can into a roller tray can make a big mess as paint drips down the side of the can. After you’ve finished pouring, use your brush to wipe off the side of the can and clean out the rim. Also, put a paper plate or foil tray under the can to catch any drips you missed.

9. Between coats

If you will be painting again within 24 hours, don’t wash out your brushes, roller or paint tray. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and make sure there is no air trapped. For the paint tray, cover the entire surface of the paint and up the sides of the tray. Place the brushes, roller and paint tray in a garbage bag and twist the opening so it’s completely closed.

10. Take frequent clean-up breaks

Take the time to clean up as you go. If you have finished with spackle and sandpaper, put them away. As you finish a wall, go back and clean up any drips before you move onto the next wall. If you spill paint on the drop cloth, wipe it up before you step in it and your shoes spread it everywhere.

By following these handy tips, you can keep your painting project organized, reduce mess, and make the entire process smoother. For all your painting supplies and expert advice, visit your local TIMBER MART. We’ve got everything you need to make your next DIY project a success!