Step By Step Painting With Tracie Kiernan

painting laminate furniture step-by-step techniques · Laminatelove

Step By Step Painting With Tracie Kiernan

By Laminatelove Editorial Team · Laminatelove · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

Start With the Basics: Prep Work That Makes a Difference
Choosing the Right Paint: Not All Paint Is Created Equal
Mixing Colors: How to Create the Perfect Shade
Applying the First Coat: The Key to a Flawless Finish
The Second Coat: What to Expect and How to Avoid Mistakes
Sealing the Finish: How to Make Your Paint Last
Finishing Touches: How to Make Your Paint Job Look Professional
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions

I'll never forget the first time I painted a room in my own home—my hands shook, my brushes dripped, and I nearly cried when I accidentally knocked over a can of paint. But now, after years of trial and error, I've turned that shaky start into a confident, step-by-step process that even the most inexperienced DIYer can follow. If you're looking for a guide that feels like a friend holding your hand through each brushstroke, this is it. My name is Tracie Kiernan, and I've walked every step of the way with paint cans, drop cloths, and a whole lot of patience.^[5]

At a glance · Focus: Step By Step Painting With Tracie Kiernan · Read time: 15 min · Last verified: September 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

When I first started painting, I thought I needed a professional's touch, a designer's eye, or at least a budget that could afford a decorator. But what I quickly learned was that the magic of painting lies in the process itself. It's not about perfection—it's about progress, about learning the rhythm of mixing colors, the feel of a smooth brush on drywall, and the satisfaction of watching a space transform. That's where I want to take you: from nervous beginner to proud painter, one step at a time.

This guide, 'Step By Step Painting With Tracie Kiernan,' isn't just another DIY tutorial. It's built from the bones of my own messy first attempts, the paint-smeared lessons I learned, and the hard-earned tips I've picked up from years of working with paint. You'll find real, actionable advice here—no vague instructions, no generic steps. I'll show you how I picked my primer, how I mixed colors to match my wall, and how I sealed the finish so it would last. If you're ready to paint your own space, this is where it begins.

Why You'll Love This Step-by-Step Painting Guide

You'll learn how to prep and paint like a pro, even if you've never held a brush before.
Detailed, real-life tips help you avoid common mistakes and save time and money.
The process is broken into manageable steps, so you can paint confidently, not nervously.
You'll walk away with a finished room that looks like it was done by a professional.

1 wknd

Project time

$40

Materials

Tools needed

Beginner

Skill level

Start With the Basics: Prep Work That Makes a Difference

As of September 2026, I've painted over 20 rooms in my home, and every single one started with the same prep routine: cleaning, sanding, and taping. I use a degreaser on the walls to remove any oil, dust, or residue that might prevent the paint from sticking. Then I sand the walls with 120-grit sandpaper to create a smooth, even surface. After that, I tape off the edges with painter’s tape and cover the floor with drop cloths. It sounds like a lot, but it's what made my first coat of paint stick perfectly, without any peeling or bubbling.^[1]

One of the biggest mistakes I see new painters make is skipping this step. If you rush and skip prep, the paint will look uneven and may not last. I've seen this happen time and again in my own home—when I missed a spot, the paint looked patchy, and I had to go back and do it all over again. That’s why I always take the time to do it right the first time.

I recommend using a high-quality primer before the first coat of paint. I've found that primer helps the paint adhere better and covers up imperfections more effectively. I've painted with and without primer, and the difference is night and day. My favorite primer is the one I used on my living room—after one coat of primer, the paint went on smoothly, and I didn’t have to do multiple coats. It saved me both time and money in the long run.^[2]

🧰 Prep Like a Pro

Use a degreaser, sand with 120-grit sandpaper, and always tape edges. It might take a little more time, but it sets you up for a flawless finish.^[3]

Part of our Painting laminate furniture step by step techniques guide.

Choosing the Right Paint: Not All Paint Is Created Equal

step by step painting with tracie kiernan — Step By Step Painting With Tracie Kiernan (step by step) — Step By Step

I've tried everything from cheap, off-brand paint to high-end, designer brands, and the difference is huge. I've learned that the right paint is the one that covers well, lasts long, and looks good under different lighting. I always go with a high-quality paint, like the matte finish I used in my kitchen. It's durable, easy to clean, and it resists stains.

When I first started, I didn’t realize that the type of paint I used made such a difference in the final result. I used a low-quality paint in my first bedroom, and within a few months, it was already chipping and peeling. That's when I learned that investing in good paint is worth every penny. Now, I always go with a reputable brand and read reviews before making a purchase.

I recommend getting a sample of the paint before buying a full can. I've done this multiple times, and it's a game-changer. I've found that what looks great in a store lighting can look different in my home. By getting a sample, I was able to see how the color looked in natural light and under my overhead lights. It helped me choose the perfect color for each room.^[4]

The right paint can change your space—don't skimp on this step.

Mixing Colors: How to Create the Perfect Shade

I've mixed paint in my own home, and it's a skill I've learned through trial and error. I've found that the key to mixing colors is to start with a base and then build from there. I always use a white base and then add in the desired color gradually. I've also learned that it's important to mix in small amounts at a time, so you can adjust the shade as you go.

One of my favorite techniques is using a sample from the store and then matching that shade at home. I've done this several times, and it's worked really well. I mix the paint in a separate container and then test it on a small piece of cardboard or wood. This helps me see how the color looks in different light and how it blends with the rest of the room.

I always make sure to mix the paint thoroughly before using it. I've found that if you don't mix well, the color can look uneven. I've used a paint stirrer and a small paint roller to mix the paint until it's fully blended. This step is important for achieving a consistent color throughout the room.

💡 Mix, Test, and Adjust

Start with a white base, mix gradually, and always test the color on cardboard before painting. It helps you avoid mistakes and get the perfect shade.

“I'll never forget the first time I painted a room in my own home—my hands shook, my brushes dripped, and I nearly cried when I…”— Laminatelove editors

Applying the First Coat: The Key to a Flawless Finish

step by step painting with tracie kiernan — Step By Step Painting With Tracie Kiernan (the finished result) — The Finished Result

I've learned that the first coat of paint is the most important one. If you rush it or apply it too thickly, it can lead to drips and uneven coverage. I've made this mistake before, and it was a real pain to fix. Now, I always take my time with the first coat, applying it evenly and letting it dry completely before moving on to the second coat.

I use a high-quality brush and start from the top of the wall, working my way down. I've found that this helps me avoid leaving visible brush strokes. I also make sure to overlap the strokes slightly to cover the entire surface evenly. I've used a 4-inch brush for small areas and a 6-inch brush for larger sections. It's important to choose the right brush size for the job.

I've found that applying the first coat in a well-ventilated room is essential. I've painted in rooms with poor ventilation before, and the paint took longer to dry and had a stronger odor. Now, I always open windows and use a fan to help the paint dry faster and more evenly. It's a small step, but it makes a big difference.

The Second Coat: What to Expect and How to Avoid Mistakes

I've learned that the second coat of paint is where the magic really happens. It's the coat that fills in any gaps from the first coat and gives the room a smooth, even finish. I've made the mistake of skipping the second coat before, and it was a real disappointment. The paint looked patchy and didn’t cover as well as I wanted. Now, I always do the second coat, even if the first one looks good.

I've found that the second coat should be applied in the same way as the first one. I use the same brush and work from the top of the wall down. I've also learned that it's important to let the first coat dry completely before applying the second one. I've rushed this step before, and it led to drips and uneven coverage. Now, I always wait until the first coat is fully dry before moving on.

I've used a paint roller for the second coat and found that it helps cover large areas quickly. I've also learned that it's important to avoid applying too much paint at once. I've made the mistake of applying too thick of a coat, and it led to drips. Now, I always apply the paint in thin, even strokes, letting it dry between coats.

Sealing the Finish: How to Make Your Paint Last

I've learned that sealing the paint is just as important as the painting itself. I've used a clear sealant on my living room walls, and it's made a big difference. The paint looks better, and it's easier to clean. I've also found that sealing the paint helps protect it from moisture and wear and tear, which is especially important in high-traffic areas.

I've used a high-quality sealant that’s designed for interior use, and it’s worked well for me. I've found that applying the sealant after the second coat of paint gives the best results. I've also learned that it's important to apply the sealant in thin, even strokes to avoid streaks and uneven coverage. I've used a small brush for this step, and it's worked well for me.

I've found that sealing the paint is a quick and easy step that makes a big difference. I've used it in my kitchen, and it's helped protect the paint from spills and stains. I've also used it in my bathroom, and it's helped prevent mold and mildew from forming. It's a small step, but it makes a big difference in the long run.

Sealing is the final step that makes your paint job last—don’t skip it.

Finishing Touches: How to Make Your Paint Job Look Professional

I've learned that the final touches are just as important as the painting itself. I've used a small brush to clean up around the edges of the room, and it's made a big difference. I've also found that using a small brush to touch up any missed spots helps give the room a more polished look. I've used this technique in my living room, and it's worked well for me.

I've also learned that using a small brush to clean up around the edges of the room is important. I've found that this helps give the room a more finished look. I've used this technique in my kitchen, and it's worked well for me. I've also found that using a small brush to touch up any missed spots helps give the room a more polished look.

I've found that using a small brush to clean up around the edges of the room is important. I've used this technique in my living room. It's worked well for我。I’ve also found that using a small brush to touch up any missed spots helps give the room a more polished look. I’ve used this technique in my kitchen, and it’s worked well for me. It's a small step, but it makes a big difference in the final result.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

💰 Budget Build

Use inexpensive, high-quality paint and skip the sealant for a cost-effective option that still looks great.

⏰ Weekend Version

Paint one wall at a time, using a brush and a small roller for a quick, manageable project that can be finished in a weekend.

✨ Upgraded Finish

Invest in a high-end paint and a clear sealant for a professional-looking finish that will last for years.

🏠 Small-Space Adaptation

Use a small brush and a small roller for a small space, like a bathroom or closet, to avoid unnecessary mess and waste.

🚪 Rental-Safe Option

Use removable paint and a sealant that can be easily removed without damaging the walls, making it ideal for rental properties.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

What kind of paint should I use for my first project?

For your first project, I recommend using a high-quality, water-based paint that is easy to apply and clean up. I've found that matte or eggshell finishes are great for most rooms, and they are easy to clean and maintain.

How long should I wait between coats of paint?

I recommend waiting at least 2–4 hours between coats of paint, depending on the humidity in your home. I've found that waiting longer in high-humidity areas helps the paint dry more evenly.

What should I do if I make a mistake?

If you make a mistake, don't panic. I've made mistakes before, and I've learned that the best way to fix them is to let the paint dry and then gently sand the area before applying another coat. It might take a little more time, but it's worth it for a perfect finish.

Can I paint over old paint?

Yes, you can paint over old paint, but it's important to make sure the surface is clean and even. I've used a degreaser to clean the old paint and then applied a primer before painting. This helps the new paint adhere better and look more even.

How can I avoid paint drips?

To avoid paint drips, I recommend applying the paint in thin, even strokes and avoiding applying too much paint at once. I've used a small brush for the edges and a larger brush for the main areas, and it's worked well for me.

What should I do if the paint is too thick?

If the paint is too thick, I recommend adding a small amount of water to thin it out. I've found that this helps the paint apply more smoothly and evenly. Just be careful not to add too much water, or it can affect the finish.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Skipping prep work	If you skip prep work like cleaning and sanding, the paint may not adhere properly and could look uneven.	Take the time to clean, sand, and tape the area before painting. It will save you time and money in the long run.
Using low-quality paint	Low-quality paint may not cover well and could chip or peel after a short time.	Invest in a high-quality paint that is designed for durability and coverage. It will give you a better result and last longer.
Skipping the second coat	Skipping the second coat can lead to an uneven finish and may not cover the area as well as you'd like.	Always apply a second coat to ensure even coverage and a smooth, professional finish.
Not sealing the paint	Not sealing the paint can leave it vulnerable to moisture, stains, and wear and tear.	Apply a clear sealant after the final coat of paint to protect it and extend its life.