Cutting In Like A Pro
As a painter, cutting in is a crucial skill to master. It involves applying paint to the edges and corners of a wall or surface that cannot be reached with a roller or brush. When done correctly, cutting in can give your painting project a professional and polished finish. However, if done poorly, it can leave unsightly brush marks or drips that ruin all your hard work. In this article, we’ll show you how to cutting in like a pro with four key steps.
Choose the right tools
The type of brush you use can significantly impact the quality of your cut-in work. To get a clean, precise line without leaving brush marks, use a high-quality, angled brush with soft, flexible bristles. A brush with a thin, pointed tip can also be helpful for accessing tight corners and hard-to-reach areas. In addition to choosing the right type of brush, make sure to select the appropriate size for the job at hand. Using a brush that is too small will take longer and may result in a less smooth finish, while a brush that is too large may be difficult to control and may cause drips. Purdy offers fine quality cutting in brushes that are guaranteed to last and help you in cutting in like a pro.
Prep like a pro
Before you start cutting in, it’s essential to properly prep the area. Use painter’s tape to protect adjacent surfaces or trim from accidental splatters. Make sure the surface you’ll be painting is clean, dry, and free of any debris or imperfections. If the surface is not properly prepared, the paint may not adhere correctly, leading to an uneven finish. FrogTape is one of the most popular painting tapes on the market right now and makes cutting in like a pro much easier.
Use good technique
When cutting in, use a steady, controlled hand to avoid drips and splatters. Load your brush with paint, then tap off the excess on the rim of the can or a piece of cardboard. Hold the brush at a slight angle, with the bristles pointed slightly away from the surface you’re painting. This will help prevent drips and create a clean, crisp line. Work slowly and carefully, taking your time to get a clean edge. Avoid overloading the brush with paint, as this can lead to drips and an uneven finish. Instead, apply thin layers of paint, allowing each layer to dry before adding additional coats if necessary. Patience is the secret to cutting in like a pro.
Clean up and touch-ups
Once you’ve finished cutting in, clean your brush thoroughly to avoid hardening of the bristles. Use a brush cleaner or warm, soapy water to remove all the paint from the brush, then rinse and dry it thoroughly. If you notice any drips or imperfections after you’ve finished cutting in, don’t hesitate to do some touch-ups. Use a small brush or a Q-tip to carefully clean up any mistakes, and always make sure to let the paint dry completely before removing any painter’s tape. If you follow these steps, you won’t have to spend a ton of time cleaning up.
Wrapping Up
Cutting in may seem like a small task, but it can significantly impact the overall look and finish of your painting project. By following these four steps and using the right tools, you can cut in like a pro and achieve a professional and polished finish. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be a cutting-in expert in no time. Don’t rush the process and take the time to properly prepare and execute the cut-in process to ensure the best possible outcome for your painting project. If you are uncertain about cutting in like a pro, please let us know and our team of painters are happy to help!
