If you’re planning to tackle a decorating project, whether it’s a full-scale home makeover or just a fresh coat of paint in the living room, having the right decorating supplies in your arsenal can make all the difference to the project's outcome. At Decorator’s Mate, London’s go-to supplier for paint shop supplies and accessories, we can provide all of the equipment and materials you need to make your redecoration venture a success. This guide will walk you through all of the essentials you'll need, with tips and recommendations from our experts.
Preparation Supplies
Before you get swept away with painting, proper preparation is key. A smooth, clean surface will yield the best results, and the right tools will help avoid any hiccups.
Dust Sheets and Protective Coverings
Protect your floors and furniture with dust sheets. Decorator’s Mate offers a variety of options, from reusable canvas sheets to lightweight plastic coverings.
Masking Tape
Achieve sharp edges with quality masking tape. It’s indispensable for protecting areas like skirting boards and window frames.
Cleaning Supplies
To start with a clean canvas, use sugar soap to remove grime and grease from walls. Don’t forget a sturdy bucket and sponge for rinsing!
Sandpaper and Fillers
Smooth out rough patches and fill cracks with our range of fillers and sandpaper grits. For a flawless finish, choose filler knives for precise application.
Paint Choices
The heart of any decorating project lies in the paint. At Decorator’s Mate, we stock a comprehensive range of paint supplies to suit every need, meaning that no matter your style or preference, we’re sure to have the right shade for you.
Selecting Paint Colours
Choosing the perfect shade can be tricky; after all, you don’t want to finish painting, only to realise it’s not the right colour for your or that room! Visit one of our branches to explore a spectrum of hues and get expert advice. We carry renowned brands like Leyland Paint, known for its rich pigments and durable finishes.
Types of Paint
If you aren’t quite sure what type of paint is right for you, here are some of the most common types you’ll find at our shops:
● Emulsion Paints: Ideal for walls and ceilings, emulsion paints are water-based and easy to work with.
● Gloss and Satin Paints: Perfect for woodwork and metal surfaces, these paints provide a sleek, polished finish.
● Specialty Paints: From chalkboard finishes to weather-resistant exterior options, we’ve got you covered.
When selecting paint, consider the room’s lighting conditions. Natural light can alter how paint colours appear, so test a small patch before committing.
Brushes, Rollers and Applicators
No matter how high-quality your paint is, the wrong applicator can lead to uneven coverage and frustration. Here’s what you’ll need to get it right the first time.
Paint Brushes
● Small brushes for detailed work and corners.
● Medium brushes for doors and furniture.
● Large brushes for covering expansive areas.
You’ll want to invest in brushes with high-quality bristles to avoid shedding during application.
Paint Rollers
● Foam rollers for smooth finishes.
● Textured rollers for patterned effects.
● Extendable handles for ceilings and hard-to-reach spots.
Paint Pads and Sprayers
These tools are ideal for achieving a consistent finish on large surfaces, and can save you heaps of time and effort.
Essential Accessories
Alongside the obvious tools like paintbrushes and paint, there’s also a bunch of accessories you should have to hand that will streamline your project and help you achieve professional-looking results. These might include:
Paint Trays and Kettles
Keep your paint handy and avoid messy spills.
Stirring Sticks
Properly mixed paint provides consistent colour.
Edge Guards and Corner Tools
Achieve clean, professional lines in tricky spots.
Step Ladders
Don’t compromise on safety - choose a sturdy ladder for high areas.
Finishing Touches
Once the paint is dry, it’s time to add those final details that take your work from good to great.
Sealants and Varnishes
Protect your work and add a professional touch with our range of topcoats and varnishes.
Decorative Details
Use stencils or decals to make your redecorated room(s) your own.
Cleaning Supplies
Clean your brushes, rollers and trays with our effective cleaning solutions to keep them ready for your next project.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Decorating can be a fun and fulfilling experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes if you’re not prepared. With this in mind, here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
Skipping Preparation
Failing to clean and prepare surfaces beforehand can lead to uneven paint application.
Using Low-Quality Tools
Cheap brushes and rollers can leave streaks and bristles in your paint.
Rushing the Job
Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next for a smooth finish.
Let’s Get Decorating!
Decorator’s Mate isn’t just any old decorating supplies company, we’re one of London’s most trusted suppliers of a vast range of paint and decorating products, providing a premium-quality service at highly competitive prices.
No matter what kind of redecoration project you’re embarking on, browse our online shop or visit us at one of our London branches. Alternatively, for expert guidance, get in touch with our team or speak to a member of staff in-store.
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