How to Edge Walls & Ceiling When Painting

Choose your painting tool. There are a variety of paint tools appropriate for the job, so this is a matter of preference. Paintbrushes can vary from a 2 inch wide angle sash brush to a 3 inch wide flat brush, but the paintbrush needs to be of the best quality for edging. This is because edging is painstaking work and a poor quality brush will not create razor-edge lines and will not distribute paint evenly. Edging pads, which come with removable applicators for easy cleaning and pad replacement, are also commonly used. High quality edgers allow the handle to be adjusted for different angles -- if you are buying an edger, this is the kind you want. Find a tool that you're comfortable with and practice with it before beginning to edge.

Tape the room. This step is optional. Many professionals don't tape the edges because a skilled painter can do without. However, if this is your first time edging a room, you may be more comfortable using tape. Use painter tape, applied in short strips. Do not use painter tape as an excuse for sloppy painting, however. It is not 100 percent effective and can leave jagged edges if paint runs beneath the tape's edge.

Dip your tool in paint and gently scrape the tool along the edge of the paint can or paint pan to wipe off any excess paint.

Press the paint tool to the edge of the wall or ceiling.

Run the paint tool along the edge of the wall, making a 2 or 3 inch wide mark along the edge.