Those new to painting might discover that quality painting requires skill, good materials, and patience. Painting is indeed a simple process, but it's usually the small details that can wreck a first-timer’s attempt at painting. Today we will identify five common beginner mistakes and how you can avoid making them.

Use the Correct Tools One reason professional painters get done so quickly is that they have the correct tools for the job. Amateurs tend to not possess the sophisticated tools professionals invest in, like paint sprayers. If you want to paint like a pro, invest in high-quality rollers, brushes, and maybe even a sprayer. You may also need ladders, scaffolding, and walk-boards, so consider hiring a professional if the job is large.

Use the Correct Paint A classic amateur mistake is using the wrong paint. There are many different types of paint, like interior, exterior, latex, enamel, low-VOC, textured, low temperature, paint/primer, etc., so it can get complicated. Always follow the manufacturer's directions on the can. That way if you have accidentally purchased the wrong paint, you can correct your mistake before expending too much effort.

Apply the Paint the Right Way Pay attention to the directions on the can. If the paint is designed to be brushed, rolled, or sprayed it will say so on the can. Never try to thin a paint that is not designed for it. This can negate the properties of the paint and cause it to fail prematurely. If you plan to use a sprayer, make sure you purchase paint that can be thinned without weakening the paint.

Don't Make a Mess The professionals understand the hassles of clean-up after painting, so they do everything possible to keep the mess to a minimum. This includes using drop cloths, paint guards, moving objects, etc. to make the job easier. Amateurs tend to spend all their energy painting and have neither the time nor motivation to clean up. This can lead to ruined tools and doing the job twice, so always leave a few minutes at the end of the day for cleaning.

Paint Safely Professional painters understand that no project is worth getting hurt for. As such, they employ safety gear and procedures, regardless of the size of the project. Painting can be dangerous, so always take the appropriate safety measures. Double-check any ladders, walk-boards, scaffolding, or other tools before using them. Safety gear can also include eye protection and a ventilator when appropriate.