The Best Methods to Use to Achieve Perfectly Straight Edges

The Best Methods to Use to Achieve Perfectly Straight Edges

If you are painting trim or an area in the home where you want to keep the edges straight, you need to learn what methods work in this respect. You simply cannot eyeball a spot and do this, lest you cause the paint to look wavy and disjointed. If you want to prevent this from happening, you need to take your time and use the proper equipment and tools to make your painted edges straight.

Add Some Caulk

Besides trim, you want to make sure the edge between the wall and ceiling is straight. This can be done by using caulk. Doing so will produce a nice and even crisp white line at the point where the wall meets the ceiling. You can also use this method to touch up an already painted space.

Add Painter’s Tape

You also need painter’s tape to make sure the edging is straight. Place the tape about 1/8” down from the ceiling. Therefore, you want to get it as close to the ceiling as possible. Place another piece of painter’s tape on the ceiling, or about 1/8” from the wall area. Run the caulk between the tapes, or over the opening. To smooth the caulk, run an ice cube over it. Make sure you remove the tape immediately for the best results.

Use a Two-inch Angled Brush

You will also want to use an angled paint brush after you apply the caulk. This method of painting takes practice, so again, take your time. You should never rush through this type of process. Otherwise, you will defeat the whole purpose of the exercise. Make sure you maintain a steady hand while using the brush. If you have drank a lot of coffee during the morning, you may need to decaffeinate before proceeding with the activity. You do not want to feel jittery because you need to stay focused on the activity.

If you take a controlled approach, you will paint a straight line where the ceiling and wall meet. Make sure the angled brush you use is of a high quality. You should paint the wall about a quarter inch down from the ceiling. The angled brush should be two inches in size.

Never reload the brush with paint. Instead, use your brush to push the already applied paint straight across the wall. Try to position the tip of the brush where the ceiling and wall meet. When this happens, you will be amazed, as you will be painting a bona fide straight line.

Use a Ceiling Line Paint Tool

You can also use a ceiling line paint device to make sure you line is perfect. The pad on the tool can be removed, so you can use this type of tool time and again. The tool features two roller wheels at the top. When a pad is placed on the device, it is centered perfectly for painting. Placing the tool along the wall will create a straight line. You might want to use the tool if you are inexperienced and need more practice using an angled brush.

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