Craig Phillips, also known as ‘Mr DIY,’ emphasizes that painting is one of the most affordable, straightforward, and impactful ways to refresh your home.

The first-ever Big Brother winner, now a YouTube presenter on his channel Mr and Mrs DIY, believes painting is no longer just a mundane task but a creative and enjoyable activity.

“Painting has come a long way from the days of magnolia walls and white skirting boards,” Craig says. “With the vast array of paint colors and finishes available today, and the influence of social media, people are eager to showcase their painting projects. It’s become fashionable to take pride in your painting skills.”

Here’s a summary of Craig Phillips’ 8 tips on refreshing your home with a new coat of paint:

1. **Choose the Right Paint**
– **Pick the correct type of paint for each room.** For high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, opt for durable, moisture-resistant paint. For living rooms and bedrooms, consider finishes that offer a soft, relaxing appearance.

2. **Prepare the Walls**
– **Proper preparation is key.** Clean walls to remove dirt and grease, fill in any cracks or holes, and sand rough spots to ensure a smooth finish. This will help the paint adhere better and last longer.

3. **Use High-Quality Brushes and Rollers**
– **Invest in quality tools.** High-quality brushes and rollers will give a smoother finish and make the job easier. They also help to avoid streaks and lines in the paintwork.

4. **Test Paint Colors First**
– **Always test colors before committing.** Paint a small section of the wall or use tester pots to see how the color looks in different lighting throughout the day.

5. **Apply a Primer**
– **Priming is essential for a lasting finish.** It helps cover dark colors and stains, giving the topcoat a more uniform appearance. Some modern paints have primer included, which can save time.

6. **Use Painter’s Tape**
– **For clean edges, use painter’s tape.** Tape off areas like trim, windows, and ceilings to ensure crisp, clean lines and prevent paint from bleeding onto areas where you don’t want it.

7. **Paint in the Right Order**
– **Follow the correct painting sequence.** Start with the ceilings, then the walls, and finish with the trim. This approach avoids splatters and ensures a neater job.

8. **Take Your Time**
– **Don’t rush the job.** Allow adequate drying time between coats and avoid overloading your brush or roller with paint, which can lead to drips and an uneven finish.

These tips should help you achieve a professional-looking paint job that refreshes your home and brings new life to your space.