A list of Painting and Decorating terms
It’s not exhaustive by any means – but just a small list we threw together. We’ll try and add some more as we go. This was actually the starting point for plotting out a Decorating Hints and Tips section, but it grew a life of its own and yertiz: Feel free to email some suggestions to: random-painting-and-decorating-terminology-department@newlook-decorator.co.uk
- Cutting in: The process of painting a straight and clean line along the edges of a surface, such as where the wall meets the ceiling, or where two different colors meet. This is typically done using a brush or a small roller.
- Masking: The technique of covering or protecting certain areas that you don’t want to paint or decorate. This is usually done using masking tape or painter’s tape to create clean edges and prevent paint from spreading to unwanted areas. See Taping.
- Priming: Applying a primer coat to a surface before painting. Primer helps to improve adhesion, seal the surface, and provide a uniform base for the paint to adhere to.
- Roller: A cylindrical tool with a handle used for applying paint to large surfaces quickly. It consists of a sleeve or cover made of synthetic material or natural fibers, which absorbs and releases the paint.
- Brush: A tool with bristles or filaments used for applying paint to surfaces. Brushes come in various shapes, sizes, and bristle types, such as synthetic or natural bristles.
- Sanding: The process of using sandpaper or sanding equipment to smooth or prepare a surface before painting or refinishing. Sanding helps to remove imperfections, roughness, or old finishes.
- Caulking: The act of applying a sealant called caulk to fill gaps or cracks between surfaces, such as between a wall and trim, or around windows and doors. Caulking helps to create a smooth and finished appearance.
- Glazing: A decorative technique where a translucent or transparent layer of paint or glaze is applied over a base coat. It adds depth, texture, or a specific visual effect to the surface.
- Stippling: Creating a textured effect by dabbing or tapping a brush, sponge, or other tool onto a surface. Stippling is often used for creating faux finishes or adding texture to walls.
- Faux finish: An artistic technique that replicates the appearance of a different material or texture, such as marble, wood grain, or stone, using various painting methods and tools.
- Taping: The process of applying masking tape or painter’s tape to protect areas that should not be painted. It ensures clean lines and prevents paint from bleeding or smudging. See: Masking
- Edging tool: A specialized tool used for cutting in or edging along corners, trim, or intricate areas. It helps achieve precise lines and reduces the need for a brush.
- Drop cloth: A protective sheet or cloth used to cover floors, furniture, or other surfaces during painting or decorating to prevent paint splatters or spills from damaging them.
- Undercoat: A base coat applied before the final coats of paint. It helps to provide better coverage, enhance color accuracy, and improve paint adhesion.
- Drywall patching: Repairing or filling holes, cracks, or damaged areas in drywall using joint compound or spackling paste. It ensures a smooth and even surface before painting.
- Stripping: The process of removing old paint or finishes from a surface, typically using paint stripper or a heat gun. Stripping is often necessary before refinishing or repainting.
- Sheen: The level of shine or glossiness of a paint finish. Common sheen options include flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Different sheens offer different levels of durability and aesthetic effects.
- Accent wall: A wall that is painted or decorated differently from the surrounding walls to create a focal point or add visual interest to a room. It is often painted in a contrasting color or adorned with a unique texture or pattern.
- Graining: A decorative technique used to simulate the appearance of wood grain on surfaces. It involves applying glazes, stains, or specialized tools to create the desired wood-like pattern.
- Varnishing: The process of applying a clear protective coating, known as varnish, to wood or other surfaces. Varnish enhances the natural beauty of the material, provides durability, and protects against wear and tear.
- Texture coating: Applying a specialized coating to create texture on walls or ceilings. It can range from a smooth texture to a more pronounced pattern, adding depth and visual interest to the surface.
- Marbling: A decorative technique that imitates the look of marble on surfaces. It involves layering and manipulating different colors of paint to achieve a realistic marble-like effect.
- Sponging ( or Ragging) : Using a sponge, rag or sponge roller to apply paint in a dabbing or stippling motion. Sponging creates a textured or mottled appearance and is often used in faux finishing or decorative painting.
- Airless sprayer: A painting tool that uses high pressure to atomise paint and propel it onto surfaces. Airless sprayers are efficient for large areas and provide a smooth, even finish. See also Airy Sprayer.
- Color swatch: A small sample or strip of paint that represents different colors and shades. Color swatches help in selecting and comparing paint colors before making a final choice.
- Reliable Decorator: A great contact to have if you need professional painting and decorating services around Derby and East Staffordshire