Title: The Best Tips for Cutting in Paint | Family Handyman
Headings: The Best Tips for Cutting in Paint
The Best Tips for Cutting in Paint
Where beginners run into trouble is cutting in along ceilings, moldings and other areas that require a perfectly straight line of paint. We'll give you some tips and pointers to help you increase the speed and improve the accuracy of your cutting-in technique.
Work From a Paint Pail
Pat, Don't Wipe, to Load the Brush
Wiggle Into Corners
Mask Only the Tops: How to Paint Trim Without Tape
Buy a Good-Quality, Angled Sash Brush
Get in a Good Position with Bright Light
Work Up to the Line
Mix in Conditioner for Easier Brushing
Wipe Off Goofs
Feather the Edge
Groove Textured Ceilings
Cut in Quickly with a Steady Hand
Cut in One Wall at a Time
Mini Hand Masker
Easy-Clean Chinex Brush
Shop Now
A Better Edge-Painting Tool

Content: Sure, cutting in can be hard for some DIYers, but you can learn to do it effectively and learn how to paint without tape. Use a tapered paintbrush. The angled bristles uniformly unload the paint as you cut in. Dip the brush into the paint, then tap (don't wipe) each side against your container to knock off the excess. Brush the paint on the wall, about 1/2 in. from the trim. Then make a second pass, cutting in all the way to the trim. Avoid 'pushing' the paint with your bristles or you'll leave a ridge where you're cutting in. Apply just enough pressure to let the bristle ends glide next to the trim. To help keep the brush steady, move your entire arm as you paint instead of moving your arm only from the elbow down.