Preparing Surfaces

Preparation is the single most important element of decorating anything - from painting a picture frame to tackling a whole room. It's the foundation not just for the immediate project but also for all future redecoration, and poor preparation is the most likely cause of a disappointing result. Taking short cuts is, in the long run, a waste of money and effort. But if you set aside sufficient time, and prepare thoroughly, the actual process of painting will be far quicker and more rewarding.

In this section, you'll find information on preparing to paint both indoor and outdoor surfaces, as well as advice on dealing with problems such as distemper or old lead-based paint.