How to Paint a Dark Hallway

Select some paint chips in various shades of white. Eliminate any options that have a gray cast. Select the brightest, cleanest white you can find.

Lay down drop cloths on the floor. Use canvas drop cloths for a safe, non-slip layer underfoot.

Set up portable lights to illuminate your work area. Overhead lights in a dim hallway are not adequate on their own for this work.

Remove all of the electrical socket covers and switch plates. Put them in a safe place, along with their screws.

Paint the juncture between the wall and ceiling, using an angled paintbrush. Paint along the door frames and woodwork.

Roll paint on the ceiling. Apply paint to the walls with the roller.

Cut in for a second time along the ceiling and trim with the brush. Re-roll the ceiling and the walls. Let the wall paint cure overnight before taping off the trim.

Place a strip of tape on the floor next to the baseboards. Put a line of tape on the walls adjacent to the trim.

Brush on the trim paint, using even strokes. Finish each application by brushing in the direction of the painted area. This keeps visible brushstrokes to a minimum. You will need to apply at least two coats of dark paint for total coverage. Remove the tape while the paint is still wet.

Wash your brush with soap and water. Gently shake out excess water before putting the brush away.