Here's our guide to painting those tricky corners and edges. However, if you're not a DIY fan, then find a local, Which? endorsed decorator who can do it for you. 

Buy a cutting in brush

To paint corners and edges, you will need an ‘angled’, ‘tapered’ or 'cutting in’ paint brush. This will help you master a wall painting technique called cutting in.

Painting tips for corners and edges: ‘cutting in’

When painting walls, a roller will not each the corners and edges. You’ll need to learn how to cut in when painting – it takes courage and a steady hand.

Dip your angled brush into the paint and tap against the paint can to ensure it’s not overloaded with paint.

First, brush the paint onto the wall, a few centimetres from the edge or corner.

Next, take a deep breath and paint all the way to the edge with a firm vertical stroke along the edge or join.  You are aiming for a gliding sensation as the brush moves along the corner. Too much pressure will result in a ridge of paint forming.

Trader tip

When painting a room, the cutting in paint technique can be used for skirting boards, door frames and windows. If you're working on a vertical join, you may find it easier to rotate the brush to paint with the narrow side. Pawel Zarski from Pol Master.

If you're not confident tackling this job yourself then find a Which? Trusted trader in your area to do it for you. All our Which? Trusted Traders endorsed painters and decorators have successfully passed our rigorous assessment, which includes a visit from a trading standards professional, credit checks and a thorough assessment of business proceses and procedures. You can find a painter and decorator with our online search tool.

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