When I started avidly DIY'ing and painting 8 years ago, I knew nothing. After years of practice, mistake making, and figuring out what works for me, I have learned a few tricks and what painting essentials are really needed.

Sometimes it's worth spending the money while other times, it's not. It can be overwhelming when you're at a home improvement store and they have endless options. I am here to tell you what my favorite painting essentials are and some tips that I've learned along the way.

All these opinions are my own and things I've learned that work for me. Keep in mind that what work for one, might not work for another :)

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Painting Essentials

• The only paint brush you will ever need. If you take away anything from this post, it would be to use this paint brush! Once you use it, you will never want to use another paintbrush. Trust me!

  • I tried this one a few weeks ago for a dollar more. I didn't think it was worth it. The hook was nice to hang on the cup, but when you buy paintbrushes often, a dollar a paintbrush adds up.

• 6-in-1 Painters Tool - This is a definite necessity! The kind you get is all preference. However, we have multiple brands and is the one I always turn to. And it just so happens to be the cheapest one.

• Spout pouring lid - This was something I thought was silly to spend money on. However, if you are pouring paint often, the lid helps prevent mess and you don't end up wasting paint. I cannot tell you the amount of paint I wasted trying to pour from the open lid and then having to clean it up. There are some paint brands that are starting to include the spout in their cap, which is awesome!

• Canvas Drop Cloth - Prior to a few months ago, the only drop cloths I used was for curtains in our house. I would always buy the plastic drop cloth, which were cheaper and worked...okay. I don't know what prompted me to use some extra canvas drop cloth we had, but I will never go back. Not only is it reusable {whereas the plastic can only be used so many times}, but it made the process of painting more smooth.

More Painting Essentials

• Flood Floetrol - If you aren't sure what this is, it's an additive that makes latex paints, primers, stains and textured coatings flow more smoothly. We used this for our baseboards, trim, doors and our girls bunkbeds. I don't like to use any sheen above satin and this product is amazing! It did a few things: made the paint go on smoother, reduced brush/roller marks, and it enhanced the finishing touch for easy cleaning without having to add more shine to the sheen.

• Paint Edger - When I first started painting, I found this paint edger much less stressful than taping.

• Brush Comb - A brush comb??? Why would you need that? Unless you want to continuously purchase new paint brushes, I have really found this brush comb helpful with getting all the gunk out. Some hot water, vinegar and a brush comb makes the biggest difference in your brushes lasting.

Tips & Tricks

• Put your paint brush/roller in a plastic bag and stick in the fridge in between coats. Do not wash your paintbrush {or roller} in between coats or if you need a break! This has been the biggest lifesaver for me as projects are never done all at once. They say you can do it for a few days, but I have left it in the fridge for a week and came back to a fresh paintbrush still.

• Line your paint tray with foil for easy clean up and to help your tray last longer. Not only is it a quick and easy clean up, but the paint tray will last longer.

• If you need a straight line, after taping and before putting the new color on top, go over the tape with the color underneath and let dry. Then go over with the new color. This helps prevent the possibility of the new color seeping through under the tape.

I know I have more tips, but this is good for now :) I'd love to hear any of your favorite items or tips that you have! Thank you for being here. Mean it!

with love, andi