Techniques — PaintLikePro

Techniques

The difference between an amateur paint job and a professional one often comes down to technique. Our guides break down the skills that professional painters use every day — so you can achieve smooth, even, streak-free results on your very first try.

11 articles

AI-generated illustration: A bedroom with pale peach lower walls and a terracotta ceiling color wrapping only the upper portion of all walls, clear horizontal paint boundary.

Color Capping Paint Trend 2026: How to Get It Right

Color capping is the lower-risk 2026 alternative to color drenching. Learn where it works, which shades to choose, and the tools that keep the lines clean.

June 19, 202611 min
AI-generated illustration: Oblique close-up of a softly clouded warm-white limewashed wall catching side light from a tall narrow window, no product containers.

Limewash Walls: The Pinterest 2026 Tutorial Walkthrough

Limewash is the matte mineral paint behind 2026 Pinterest trends. Step-by-step tutorial, paint matches, and the technique that prevents streaks.

May 3, 20269 min
AI-generated illustration: Upward angled view of a muted dusty-blue painted ceiling, cream walls, simple white crown molding and a small vintage brass pendant in an everyday dining room.

Painted Ceilings: The Fifth-Wall Trend Reshaping 2026 Rooms

Painted ceilings, also called the fifth wall, are the boldest 2026 design trend. Best colors, sheen pairings, and where it works vs falls flat.

May 3, 20268 min
AI-generated illustration: Dining room with muted terracotta lower wall and pale pink upper wall, a deliberate horizontal boundary at chair rail height.

Two-Tone Walls: The 2026 Trend Adding Drama to Rooms

Two-tone walls — split horizontally with two colors — are the 2026 trend rooting modern interiors. Where the line lives, color pairings, and the right tools.

May 3, 20269 min
AI-generated illustration: A narrow study with ceiling walls baseboards and door all muted dusty rose, natural wood desk, one tall window and restrained furnishing.

How to Color-Drench a Room (The 2026 Painting Trend Explained)

Color drenching — painting walls, ceiling, and trim in one color — is the dominant 2026 painting trend. Here's how to execute it without it looking flat.

April 28, 202610 min
AI-generated illustration: Textured pale limestone limewash wall with gentle broad cross-brush variation, large unbranded masonry brush resting on a canvas cloth, quiet plastered alcove.

How to Apply Limewash Paint: Complete 2026 DIY Guide

Limewash is the #1 trending wall finish of 2026 — and the easiest designer-look technique to DIY. Our step-by-step guide covers prep, application, mistakes to.

April 20, 20266 min
Three sample walls finished in microcement, limewash, and tadelakt side-by-side

Microcement vs Limewash vs Tadelakt: The Ultimate 2026 Comparison

Three of the hottest wall finishes of 2026 — compared side-by-side. Price, durability, waterproofing, DIY difficulty, and which one actually belongs in your space.

April 20, 20268 min
Painter using a high-quality brush for a smooth paint finish

How to Avoid Brush Marks When Painting

Brush marks ruin an otherwise great paint job. Here's exactly why they happen and the pro techniques to get a glass-smooth finish every time.

April 7, 20266 min
Paint brushes and rollers laid out on a work surface

Brush vs. Roller vs. Sprayer: When to Use Each

Choosing the right painting tool makes all the difference. Learn when to use a brush, roller, or sprayer for the best results on any project.

April 6, 20265 min
AI-generated illustration: Close-up clean cream wall meeting deep blue door trim, a plain angled brush resting on protected sill, emphasis on precise edge.

How to Cut In Like a Pro (Without Tape)

Cutting in is the most important painting skill. Learn the freehand technique that pros use to paint perfect lines along ceilings, trim, and corners — no tape.

April 5, 20266 min
Textured faux painted wall with warm layered tones

Faux Painting Techniques for Beginners

Faux painting adds texture and depth to any wall. From color washing to sponging and Venetian plaster, learn 5 techniques you can master in a weekend.

April 4, 20265 min

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cutting in when painting?
Cutting in means painting a precise line along edges — where walls meet ceilings, trim, or corners — using a brush before rolling the larger flat areas. It creates clean lines without tape.
How do I avoid brush marks when painting?
Use a high-quality brush, thin your paint slightly if needed, and always finish with long, light strokes in one direction. A self-leveling paint like Benjamin Moore Regal Select also helps.
Should I cut in first or roll first?
Always cut in first, then roll. The wet cut-in edge blends perfectly with the rolled section while the paint is still wet, eliminating the visible line some DIYers see when they cut in after rolling.
What's the best way to paint a ceiling?
Use a roller with an extension pole, a flat or matte finish ceiling paint, and work in sections roughly 3 feet wide. Roll in a W or M pattern and maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks.