Painting Your First Coats

Here's the fun part. The golden rule of a great finish is simple: thin coats, don't overwork it.

The first coat: grip

Without adding any water, load your brush lightly and apply a thin, even, uniform layer. Work in long strokes following the grain. The first coat is about grip and may look patchy or streaky — that's completely normal. Resist the urge to go back over it as it starts to set.

The second coat: full color

After about 30 minutes, apply a second, slightly thicker coat for full, rich color and a durable result. This is the coat that makes the piece look finished. Deep or bright colors over dark surfaces may want a third light coat.

Getting it smooth

• Use a foam roller on flat panels for a mark-free finish.
• Let the paint self-level — walk away instead of fussing.
• For a furniture-grade surface, lightly buff between coats with a fine sanding sponge.
• Keep a wet edge and work section by section.