Have you ever finished painting a wall and noticed a darker border around the edges? That’s what we call “picture framing”. And no, it’s not a fancy painting technique. It’s a common painting mishap that can leave your walls looking patchy and uneven. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you avoid this rookie DIY mistake.
So, what exactly is picture framing?
Picture framing happens when the edges of a wall, where you’ve cut in with a brush, dry differently from the rest of the wall, which you’ve rolled. The result? A subtle (or not-so-subtle) outline that makes your paint job look more unfinished than seamless. It’s usually caused by differences in application technique, paint thickness, or drying time between the brush and roller.
Here’s how to avoid picture framing:
1. Cut in and roll while the paint is still wet
This is the golden rule. To get a smooth, uniform finish, you want to blend the brushed edges with the rolled sections while the paint is still wet. This is what we mean when we say, “maintain a wet edge”. This helps the two areas merge beautifully. This is also why we don’t recommend cutting in the whole wall first. Work in sections. Cut in a small area, then roll it immediately, dispersing the paint evenly on your surface.
2. Use the same paint for cutting in and rolling
This might sound obvious, but it’s worth saying! If you’re using leftover paint from a previous job or switching between batches, even a slight difference in sheen or colour can cause picture framing. Mix your paint thoroughly and use the same tin for both brush and roller work.
Bonus Tip – If you have leftover paint from a project, be sure to label it. Painting can be messy and there’s a good chance the label on the tin has been covered with paint. A clear label using masking tape and pen can make all the difference with your leftover paint.
3. Choose the right tools
A quality brush and roller make all the difference. Use a brush that holds enough paint and gives you control (we like a 50mm angled sash brush for cutting in). For rolling, pick a roller with the right nap for your surface. Not sure what nap you need for your surface? Check out our guide here.
4. Apply consistent pressure
When cutting in, avoid overloading your brush or pressing too hard. You want a smooth, even coat that matches the roller’s texture. Same goes for rolling—keep your pressure consistent and avoid going over dry areas too many times.
5. Don’t let the paint dry too fast
Let’s be honest, one of the perks of painting in the Aussie sun is the quick drying times. But if your paint is drying faster than you can blend it, this could lead to picture framing. Try working in cooler parts of the day, or use paint conditioners that extend drying time. This gives you more wiggle room to blend edges and avoid harsh lines.
6: Step back and check your work
Every now and then, take a step back and look at your wall from different angles. If you spot any framing starting to appear, you can touch it up before it fully dries.
While picture framing might sound like a rookie mistake, even seasoned DIYers run into it. The good news? With the right prep, tools, and timing, you can paint like a pro and leave those pesky outlines behind.
Pop into your local Inspirations Paint store for everything you need to nail your next project.
Be sure you’re not making these painting mistakes or, if you’re in the mood for some interior transformations, learn how to makeover a tween boys bedroom here.