"Wall painting" can mean two very different things depending on what you’re looking to do: either the technique of painting a room’s walls to refresh your home, or the art of creating a mural or decorative design to make a statement.

1. If you want to paint a room (Home Improvement)

If you are looking to refresh your space, the secret to a professional look is almost entirely in the preparation.

• Prep is King: Fill holes with spackle, sand them smooth, and clean the walls thoroughly to remove dust and grease. Always use a primer if you are changing colors drastically or painting over repairs—it ensures the paint adheres properly and looks even.

• Essential Tools: You’ll need high-quality rollers, angled brushes (for cutting in around edges and trim), a sturdy paint tray, and plenty of high-quality painter's tape to get those crisp, clean lines.

• The "W" Technique: When using a roller, paint in a "W" or "M" pattern to distribute the paint evenly, then fill in the gaps with vertical strokes. Always maintain a "wet edge" to avoid lap marks.

2. If you want decorative wall art (Design & Murals)

If you're looking to turn a plain wall into a feature, there are many creative, DIY-friendly techniques:

• Geometric Designs: Use painter’s tape to map out patterns (triangles, stripes, or diamonds) and paint within the sections. Remove the tape while the paint is still slightly damp for sharp edges.

• Stenciling: You can buy or create reusable stencils to repeat patterns like florals or mandalas across a wall, giving it a wallpaper-like effect without the cost.

• Textured Finishes: Techniques like sponging (dabbing paint with a sea sponge), color washing (applying a translucent glaze over a base coat), or rag rolling add depth, movement, and a custom look to a room.

• Color Drenching: A modern trend where you paint not just the walls, but also the trim, doors, and sometimes even the ceiling in the same color to create a cozy, immersive, and high-impact space.