Tools, Materials, and Prep Checklist

Gathering the right supplies guarantees a smoother workflow and prevents mid-project runs to the hardware store. Investing in high-quality materials directly impacts the longevity and finish of your paint colors. Keep in mind that a standard 10-by-12-foot accent wall requires roughly one gallon of paint for adequate two-coat coverage.

Premium acrylic latex paint: 1 gallon, $45 to $80

High-adhesion interior primer: 1 gallon, $30 to $50

Painter’s tape: 2 to 3 rolls, $8 each

Canvas drop cloths: 2 large, $15 each

Angled synthetic bristle brushes: 2-inch and 2.5-inch sizes, $15 each

Microfiber paint rollers: 3/8-inch nap 3-pack, $12

Sturdy roller frame and extension pole: $25

Paint tray with disposable plastic liners: $10

Lightweight spackle and a flexible putty knife: $12

Fine-grit sanding sponges: 220-grit, $5

Before opening a single can of paint, clear the room of furniture or move large pieces to the center and cover them entirely with drop cloths. Wash your target wall with a mild degreaser—especially in kitchens or bathrooms—to remove airborne oils that prevent paint adhesion. Fill any nail holes or dents with lightweight spackle, wait for it to dry completely, and sand the patches until they are perfectly flush with the surrounding drywall.

If your home was built before 1978, you must test existing surfaces for lead before sanding. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency website for federal safety guidelines on handling lead-based paint safely.

Apply painter’s tape firmly along baseboards, ceiling lines, and adjacent walls. Press the tape edges down forcefully with a clean putty knife to seal out potential drips and guarantee razor-sharp lines.