Using the right tool will help create professional results for your home DIY projects, especially when it comes to painting. But you might be wondering — should you use a roller or a sprayer, or what about a brush? What kind of tool will work best for painting around corners?

    Keep reading to get up to speed on what you need before heading to the paint store. Check out more painting tips for an overview of DIY and pro techniques.


    Rollers

    Rollers are versatile tools that allow you to quickly cover large surface areas like walls and ceilings. Selecting the right roller nap thickness (the thickness of the roller cover) and type of paint for your project is key to achieving great results.

    There’s more than one roller size to tackle your project. Roller covers come in thicknesses from 3/16 inch to 1 1/2 inches. The thickness you choose depends on the texture you want — thinner covers like 3/16 inch are best for smooth surfaces, while thicker covers like 1 1/4 inch will add more texture. Most DIYers opt for a 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch cover as a good middle ground.

    Rollers are also made from a variety of materials. For painting with latex and acrylic paints, polyester and polyester/nylon blend covers are ideal. Foam or microfiber covers provide an ultra-smooth finish. Lambswool or mohair work best with oil-based paints. You can achieve professional results with the right type of roller and the right techniques.


    Brush

    Use a paintbrush if you want control in a tight area to minimize mistakes. Brushes are perfect for cutting in corners or around trim. 

    Angled bristle brushes provide control for cutting in corners and painting window sashes.  Angled sash brushes are best for cutting in along trim, while flat sash brushes are ideal for covering more space. 

    You’ll find polyester and nylon brushes work well for latex paints — these brushes are affordable, durable, and give smooth strokes. For latex paint, look for acrylic or polyester brushes.


    Foam Brush and Roller

    For some painting projects, foam brushes and rollers work better than traditional bristle brushes or rollers. Foam painting tools provide ultra-smooth finishes without streaks on surfaces like furniture and trim work.

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    A foam roller is ideal for smooth surfaces and gloss or semi-gloss latex paint on interior walls. The foam prevents drips and uneven coverage. Foam rollers can also give cabinets an ultra-smooth painted finish.


    Sprayer

    For large projects like painting a home exterior, use a paint sprayer. It’s a great tool for achieving a smooth finish quickly.  Remember, sprayed paint can drift, so move or cover nearby items like cars or patio furniture before starting your project.

    Rent or buy sprayers at home centers or tool rental outlets. Airless sprayers are best for DIY home painting. Their electric pump provides a smooth, even coat without relying on air pressure. For smaller jobs, high volume low-pressure (HVLP) sprayers are great. They use less pressure and push less paint for excellent control on tasks like kitchen cabinets. But they aren’t ideal for whole house exteriors.

    For price ranges and tips, check out this spray gun guide.


    Paint Pad

    Some spaces are too difficult to paint with a roller, brush, or sprayer. Paint pads without bristles can get into tight, narrow spaces like behind stairwells. Some have wheels to easily glide around trim edges. This video shows how to get into even tighter spots with a pad and paint stick.


    Spray Paint

    While not a first choice, sometimes spray paint cans will get the job done. Common uses include painting vents and changing hardware finishes.

    For DIY and crafts, enamel spray paint is often best. It dries to a hard, glossy, chip- and fade-resistant finish. Be aware of painting over old paint if the surface was previously coated.

    This video shows how to clean clogged spray tips and keeping tips from clogging after use, allowing you to get full use of your spray paint cans.

    Before spraying, shake the paint vigorously for 60 seconds. Hold the can six to eight inches from the surface while spraying in smooth, even, overlapping strokes. From our experience, spray paint works best for small projects rather than large areas like walls.


    So, Is Choosing the Right Painting Tool Important?

    Using proper tools is critical for professional-looking results. The right tools make painting easier and faster, while the wrong tools can make a mess and ruin a paint job. Investing in quality brushes, rollers, pads, and basic painting tools is well worthwhile for DIY projects. With the variety of painting tools available, you can find the right options for your next project.

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    FAQs About Painting Tools

    What are must-have painting tools for DIY projects?

    Must-haves include:

      • Drop cloths or tarps to protect floors and furniture

      • Foam brushes and mini-rollers for trim and touch-ups

      • Paintbrushes in multiple sizes with angled and straight bristles

      • Paint pads, especially wheeled ones, for cutting in

      • Paint tray or bucket and roller frame

      • Roller covers with common nap thicknesses like 1/4 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/4 inch


    Should I use a brush or roller to paint walls?

    Use a roller to quickly cover large wall areas. Use an angled sash brush to cut in along trim and corners. Combining both gives the best results.


    What tools do I need for spray painting?

    You’ll need a sprayer (HVLP or airless), a compatible spray gun, drop cloths, and a respirator mask. Painter’s tape is also needed to mask off areas.


    Should I use natural or synthetic paintbrushes?

    Synthetic nylon/polyester brushes are best for latex and acrylic paints. Natural bristle works for oil-based paints, stains, and varnish but can be damaged by water-based paints.


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    Lauren Greene

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    Lauren Greene is a passionate storyteller with over 4 years of experience writing and editing. She attributes her expertise from working at local magazines, newspapers, and corporate marketing and communications teams. She has worked on content with topics ranging from plant care, home decor, and home improvement. Lauren resides in Raleigh with her adorable Shih Tzu. You can catch Lauren attending to her plants, spending time with her puppy, enjoying the greenway, or lifting weights at the gym when she’s not writing or researching the latest home improvement topics.

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    Lee Ann Merrill

    Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.

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