for the setting of pay levels. Activities of the trade Historically, the painter was responsible for the mixing of the paint; keeping a ready supply of pigments, oils, thinners and driers. The painter would use his experience to determine a suitable mixture depending on the nature of the job. In modern times, the painter is primarily responsible for preparation of the surface to be painted, such as patching holes in drywall, using masking tape and other protection on surfaces not to be painted, applying the paint and then cleaning up. Larger firms operating within the trade were generally capable of performing many painting or decoration services, from creating an accent wall to sign writing, to the gilding of objects or the finishing or refinishing of furniture. Painter-work is described in the 1911 Encyclopædia Britannica Eleventh Edition where the relevant skills include preparing surfaces, mixing paint, gilding, distemper, and faux-finishes including marbleizing and graining. More recently, professional painters are responsible for all preparation prior to painting. All stucco or popcorn or texture scraping, sanding, wallpaper removal, caulking, drywall or wood repair, patching, stain removal, filling nail holes or any defects with plaster or putty, cleaning, taping, preparation and priming are considered to be done by the professional contracted painter. Gallery See also Accent wall Adhesion testing Coating Environmental impact of paint Painting and Decorating Contractors of America Popcorn ceiling Volatile organic compounds Wallpaper References Articles containing video clips Construction trades workers Interior design Paint and coatings industry Painting