Walls:

For drywall and plaster walls remove any nails, screws or loose paint with a hammer, pliers and scrapper respectively. To fill holes apply a lightweight spackling compound, or drywall compound with a trowel or putty knife. For large holes use wall patch meshing or fill area with a piece of drywall, cut to size, tape edges with drywall tape, then apply drywall compound and let dry. For large areas a second application of drywall compound may be required. ‘Float’ the edges out, thinning the compound as you spread it outward from patched area. Sand surface smooth. Final sanding should be done with 220 grit sandpaper. Prime the patched areas with appropriate primer. To determine the correct primer to use refer to the artSparx primer resource. For most wall surfaces a water-based primer, such as Ben Moore primer , or an oil-based primer, will be sufficient. Once primed and allowed to dry thoroughly, the base coat (for decorative finishes) or finished coat (for one color process) may be applied. 

Windows, Doors and Trim:

Remove all nails, screws, curtain rods and window dressings. Tape off glass areas, or use paint tape . Strip surface if desired. Refer to the artSparx stripper’s resource for appropriate  products and methods.

Sand surface to smooth any irregularities.  Where needed, patch holes with wood filler , using a putty knife. Allow to dry fully. Repeat if necessary. Sand areas smooth using 220 grit sand paper. Prime area with appropriate primer, such as Ben Moore primer . To determine the correct primer to use, refer to the artSparx primer resource. When thoroughly dry, apply base color (for decorative finishes) or finished coat (for one color process).

Oil-based paints are often used for windows, doors and trim. It provides a stronger bond and a more durable surface for these high use areas.

Do not use water-based primers under a topcoat of oil-based paint.

Ceilings:

For drywall and plaster ceilings remove any nails, screws or loose paint with a hammer, pliers and scrapper respectively. To fill holes apply a lightweight spackling compound, or drywall compound with a trowel or putty knife. For large holes use wall patch meshing or fill area with a piece of drywall, cut to size, tape edges with drywall tape, then apply drywall compound and let dry. For large areas a second application of drywall compound may be required. ‘Float’ the edges out, thinning the compound as you spread it outward from patched area. Sand surface smooth. Final sanding should be done with 220 grit sand paper. Prime the patched areas with appropriate primer. To determine the correct primer to use, refer to the artSparx primer resource. For most ceiling surfaces a water-based primer, Ben Moore primer , or oil-based primer will be sufficient. Once primed and allowed to dry thoroughly, the base coat (for decorative finishes) or finished coat (for one color process) may be applied.