Painting Tool Necessities

Have you ever started painting a room in your home, only to find that you don't have a particular something to get the job done? Not only can this be frustrating, it can also potentially waste your time and money. In order to avoid any potential problems, use this list to make sure that you have the correct tools for your job.

• Utility knife. Utility knives are one of the more versatile tools that you can have in your painter's tool box. These tools can be used to open packaging, cut paper, or even the painter's tape, among a variety of other uses.
• Sanding block. Often used to not only prep your work area, but to also clean up any imperfections that may crop up after you are finished. Sanding blocks can be used to rub away small puddles or pools of dried paint that detract from the overall work you have done.
• Brushes. Brushes are one of the more traditional methods for applying paint to an object. If you are going to use a brush in your painting, make sure it is a good quality brush. Be aware though, that such brushes generally cost more, but they are worth it.
• Roller pan liner. Roller pan liners will protect your roller pan from the paint that you put into it. While not, strictly speaking, necessary to get the job done, this item will not only protect your roller pan it can also be used as a roller pan itself.
• Paint can opener. This is a tool that you use to, as the name implies, open a can of paint. While there are specific tools that you can purchase that will do this job, a standard straight edge screwdriver can also fulfill this need.
• Putty knives. Putty knives can be used to help repair damaged sections of wall, or even to help apply paint in small specific areas. If you use the knives in such a manner though, make sure that you always clean them up before you put them away.
• Rags. Rags are used to clean up small spills, messes on your hands, or even other mistakes that you may make. In addition, rags can be used as small drop cloths for close in work.
• Rollers. Another traditional method for applying paint to a surface. These tools can often allow you to apply paint in unique and creative methods which will provide a dramatic effect when completed.
• Masks. Masks are used to protect you from the toxic fumes that wet paint can emit. If possible, the better quality masks are always a good idea, that way you can paint without stopping.
• Brush extender. A tool that you use to extend your reach when painting.
• Tape measure. Useful for figuring out how much paint you will need. In addition, a tape measure can help you make sure that you create a straight line if you will be painting your walls different colors.
• Safety goggles. Safety goggles are useful for protecting your eyes from any paint that may accidentally start flying.
• Roller pan. This is an item that is used to hold paint for your rollers. Simply pour a little bit of paint inside the pan, and roller your rollers in it.
• Painter's tape. Painter's tape is used to protect light switches, windows, and any other item that you may not want to have paint applied.
• Drop cloths. A drop cloth is used to protect your floor or furniture from paint. This is particularly useful when you are painting walls and ceilings.
• Brush and roller spinner. Brush and roller spinners are a useful cleaning tool.
• Stepladder. Helpful in getting to those particularly hard to reach areas that are outside of your reach. Particularly useful for painting walls near the ceiling.
• Rubber gloves. Great items to wear which will ensure that you don't get any paint on your hands.
• Extension pole. Similar in nature to a brush extender, but generally several feet in length. The better quality extension poles are also adjustable.
• Paint mixer. If you are not able to start painting the same day that you purchase your paint, then you may want to get one of these items. A paint mixer will help ensure that your paint is mixed and ready for you to use.
• Roller cages. This is the item that your roller will slip onto. This is often what people think about when they hear the term "roller."
• Paint can pouring spout. When you pour paint into a roller pan, or happen to mix a couple of colors yourself, you want to use a paint can pouring spout. This will help keep drips and other messes to a minimum.
• Coveralls. Unless you are planning on throwing away your clothes when you are finished, you may want to wear some of these.
• Painter's hat. A good painter's hat can help keep paint out of your hair, and off of your face, when you are painting a ceiling or high wall.