How to Paint a Bedroom Quickly

Painting a bedroom can be a quick and transformative project when you have the right tools, materials, and strategy. This guide will walk you through the process with tips for efficiency, so you can get the job done smoothly, even on a tight schedule.

Equipment List

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Paint (amount varies based on room size; see chart below)
• Paint primer (optional, depending on wall condition)
• Paint trays
• Painter’s tape
• Paint rollers (9-inch for walls, smaller 4-inch for touch-ups)
• Angled paintbrush (for corners and edges)
• Extension pole (for reaching high spots)
• Drop cloths (for furniture and floors)
• Plastic sheeting or tarp (to protect windows and doors)
• Sandpaper (120-grit or higher for smoothing walls)
• Putty knife and spackle (for filling small holes)
• Ladder or step stool
• Stir sticks

Step 1: Calculate How Much Paint You’ll Need

Estimating paint coverage is key to avoiding unnecessary trips to the store. Most paint cans cover around 350-400 square feet per gallon. Here’s a quick reference guide based on standard bedroom sizes:

Note: If you’re using a darker color or covering a high-contrast surface, add an extra half gallon for a second coat if needed.

Step 2: Decide if a Primer is Needed

Primers can help the paint adhere better and even out imperfections, but not all walls require it. Here’s a quick guide:

• When to Use Primer:
• When painting over a very dark color with a lighter one.
• When painting fresh drywall or walls with a high-gloss finish.
• When there are visible stains or patched areas.
• When You Can Skip Primer:
• When repainting in a similar shade.
• If your walls are in good condition and the previous paint isn’t very dark.

Some paints have a built-in primer that can be enough for minor color changes.

Step 3: Prep the Room

Preparing the room thoroughly will save you time when painting and cleaning up. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Move Furniture

• Move furniture to the center of the room, leaving enough space around the walls to paint easily.
• Cover all furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to prevent any paint splatter.
• If possible, remove smaller items like nightstands and lamps to another room to free up space.

Protect the Floor and Fixtures

• Lay down drop cloths to cover the floor.
• Use painter’s tape to protect baseboards, door frames, windows, and any built-in items.
• If you’re painting the ceiling as well, cover ceiling fans or light fixtures with plastic sheeting.

Step 4: Start with the Edges and Corners

Painting the edges and corners first creates a clean frame for the roller work and prevents the need for precision later on. Here’s how to tackle this part:

1. Cut in along the edges: Use an angled brush to paint a 2-3 inch border along the edges of walls, windows, and corners.
2. Feather the edges: Avoid thick lines by feathering the edges of your brushstrokes.

Pro Tip: Work in small sections, cutting in one wall at a time and then rolling the rest to keep a wet edge, which ensures even coverage.

Step 5: Roll the Walls

Using a roller speeds up the process and provides a smooth, even finish. Here are some tips for efficient rolling:

• Attach an extension pole to your roller for easier reach.
• Load the roller with paint and remove excess by rolling it lightly on the tray ridge.
• Roll in a “W” or “M” pattern, starting in the middle of the wall, then fill in the gaps. This method spreads paint more evenly.
• Work from top to bottom, keeping a consistent pressure on the roller to avoid streaks.

Pro Tip: Don’t overload the roller with paint—too much paint can cause drips and create an uneven finish.

Step 6: Apply a Second Coat if Needed

If the color looks uneven or the previous color shows through, wait for the first coat to dry and apply a second coat. Lightly sand any rough patches between coats for a smooth finish. For most rooms, two coats are sufficient for full coverage.

Step 7: Clean Up

Proper cleanup will ensure your tools are ready for the next project and help you avoid accidental paint marks on surfaces.

1. Remove painter’s tape slowly while the paint is still slightly damp to prevent peeling.
2. Dispose of or wash rollers and brushes based on the type of paint you used (latex paint is water-based, while oil paint requires a paint thinner).
3. Fold and shake out the drop cloths carefully to avoid spreading paint droplets around the room.

Quick Tips Recap

1. Prep and plan by calculating your paint needs and moving furniture out of the way.
2. Cut in edges and corners first to make the rolling process faster.
3. Use quality tools—a good roller and angled brush will make the job easier and produce a better finish.
4. Keep a wet edge as you work for a smooth, even coat.
5. Use drop cloths and tape to protect floors and fixtures, saving cleanup time.

With these steps and tips, painting your bedroom can be a quick, rewarding project that transforms the space without too much hassle.