Preparation
The key to a great paint job is preparation. Begin by removing as many furnishings from the room as you possible can. While it may seem like a lot of trouble it will make the job go faster in the long run.
Use plastic or cloth drop clothes to cover any remaining furniture or ceiling light fixtures.
Take down all pictures, paintings, mirrors and window treatments.
Remove wall switch plates and electrical covers being careful not to electrocute yourself in the process.
It is essential that the surface be clean of all dirt and grease in order for the primer or paint to absorb properly and for you to get a smooth coat.
The more expensive the paint the easier it is to apply and the longer it will last. Use a high quality paint. Wait for the best paint your dealer has goes on sale and buy it.
A high-quality brush means a high quality paint job. The better brushes have more bristle allowing more paint on the brush, and a smoother stroke with less brush marks.
Purchase a good quality roller with with screws in the handle to receive an adjustable paint pole. Natural fiber roller covers made with mohair or a blend of polyester and lamb's wool usually are suggested for oil-base paints and varnishes ceilings.
Priming helps to seal wall and ceiling surfaces, eliminating lap marks, dry patches, flaking, and promoting consistent color and luster.
PAINTING THE CEILING Make sure you have plenty of light. If you are painting the entire room begin by "cutting in" the ceiling color with a 2" or 2 1/2" trim brush where the ceiling meets the wall. Apply a three inch wide strip around the perimeter of the ceiling. You "cut in" where it is difficult to use a roller. Get an adjustable extension pole and the job will go much easier. Cover a roller with paint in the paint tray and remove the excess by slowly rolling along the tray's ribs. Work a given area until you have achieved an even thickness. Move on to the next area, overlapping the previous area by half of a roller width. This ensures an even coverage. Be careful to apply each application evenly.
PAINTING WALLS - After the ceiling has thoroughly dried, start cutting in where the walls meet the ceiling While it is advisable to alternate cutting in and rolling it is impractical if only on person is painting. Cut in around windows, door molding and baseboard.
PAINTING TRIM - After the walls have been painted and dried, it's time to tackle the trim Inspect for cracks and holes. Fill with a good latex filler. Make sure you washed the trim.
PAINTING DOORS - Doors get lots of abuse so check for cracks and hole. It is essential to give them a light sanding. It is ok to paint the door on it's hinges in most cases but remove the door handle. Flat doors can be painted with a roller only to quickly apply the the paint but be sure to smooth it with a brush. Paneled doors should be painted with a brush.
Be sure to follow the disposal directions on all of the product that you buy, especially ail based products. Don't leave half filled based paint sitting around the house. Dispose of rags that have been used with oil based paints nightly by first thoroughly soaking them in water and then disposing of properly.