How to Apply Top Coat & Primer to Walls

Remove any obstructions from the wall you want to paint. Covering trim, edges and fixtures with painter's tape protects the areas from accidental painting. Drop cloths placed on the floor catch drippings that fall to the ground.

Dip a sponge into mild, soapy water. Remove the excess water and wipe off any loose dirt from the wall.

Let the wall completely dry, and then sand down uneven areas with medium-grade sandpaper.

Distribute the primer evenly onto a paint roller or paintbrush. Apply the primer onto the wall, using short, smooth strokes. Covering imperfections, work from top to bottom and across until the entire wall is finished.

Let the primer completely dry. Drying time is printed on the primer can.

Roll a clean paint roller into the paint for the top coat. Add the paint evenly onto the paint roller, but do not overfill it.

Roll the paint onto the wall, starting in the upper corner. Using light, firm, zigzag strokes, work from top to bottom and across. For corners, dip a clean paintbrush into the paint and apply the paint with long, smooth strokes.

Let the top coat partially dry, and then remove the painter's tape from the trim and fixtures.