Painting is a wonderful way to add some colour and personality to your living space. However, it can be frustrating when you can't seem to cut in a straight line. Cutting in straight lines is an essential part of painting, as it ensures that the lines between two colours or between a wall and ceiling are clean and sharp. In this helpful guide, we will go over some tips and tricks to help you cut in straight lines whilst painting.
Use a high-quality paintbrush
The first step to cutting in straight lines is to use a high-quality paintbrush. A good paintbrush will have a firm, straight bristle that can hold and distribute the paint evenly. A brush with uneven bristles will make it difficult to get a straight line. We like Purdy angle cutting in brushes or Arroworthy angle cut brushes, preferably 1.5 inch (38mm) or 2 inch (50mm). These can be bought from a decorating centre rather than a regular hardware store.
Load the brush properly
When loading your brush, dip it in the paint and then tap off any excess paint. This will prevent drips and ensure that the paint is distributed evenly on the brush.
Use a steady hand
Hold the brush firmly, but not too tightly. Use some confidence and move the brush at a constant pace, going too slow will most likely give an uneven line.
Cut in sections
Cutting in can be challenging if you try to do it all at once. It's easier to cut in sections, moving from one section to another. This will give you more control over the brush and allow you to achieve a straight line.
Use a straight edge or tape
If you're having trouble getting a straight line, try using a straight edge. You can use a ruler, a level, remember to wipe clean between each movement. Hold the straight edge against the edge you want to paint, and use your brush to paint up to the edge of the straight edge. Alternatively you can use a masking tape, assuming you're going paint to a corner or ceiling we recommend letting the previous colour dry for at least 24 hours, then use a quality delicate masking tape, we prefer Frog Tape, yellow colour, it gives a clean crisp edge and is relatively delicate to newly painted surfaces when you remove it.
Practice, practice, practice Finally, practice is the key to mastering any skill. The more you practice cutting in straight lines, the better you will become. Start with small sections and work your way up to larger areas. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will feel.
In conclusion, cutting in straight lines can be a bit challenging, but with a few simple tricks and techniques, you can achieve clean, sharp lines that will make your painting project look professional. Use a high-quality brush, load it properly, use a steady hand, cut in sections, use a straight edge or masking tape, and most importantly, practice. With these tips, you'll be cutting in like a pro in no time!
We hope you found this guide useful. For more painting and decorating pro tips from the team at Chicoco click here.