A great paint finish starts long before the first brushstroke. Most peeling, patchy or uneven results come from skipped preparation, not poor paint.

Step 1: Clear and protect.

Move furniture away from the wall, cover floors and switches, and mask the edges with tape.

Step 2: Clean the surface.

Remove dust, grease, cobwebs and loose flakes with a dry brush or cloth. Kitchen and bathroom walls may need a damp wipe, and they must dry completely afterwards.

Step 3: Repair.

Fill cracks and holes with a crack filler or putty, let it dry, then sand it flat.

Step 4: Sand lightly.

A gentle sanding removes rough patches and helps coats bond. Wipe off the dust before moving on.

Step 5: Prime.

A primer seals the surface, evens out absorption and helps your topcoat look richer while lasting longer.

Step 6: Paint in thin, even coats.

Two thin coats look better than one thick coat. Allow the recommended drying time between coats.

Quick tip: Avoid painting in damp weather, as moisture in the air slows drying and can affect the finish.

Taking an extra hour to prepare can add years to your paint job. For product advice, visit your nearest Asia Buddha Paints dealer.