Paint brush or roller? Choose the right tool for the job
Anyone can paint! Arm yourself with a brush or a roller and a little inspiration and you are ready to go.
The quality of your tools can definitely have an impact on your end result though, and if you are able to invest in brushes and rollers best suited to the job then you are sure to see improvements in what you create.
If you’ve ever used a cheap paintbrush, you’ll know why it pays to invest in a purpose designed, quality brush. From loose bristles to streaky strokes - it's enough to put you off painting again.
The type of tool used will also give different results and finishes. To help you choose the right option, here is our quick guide to the three main types of applicator you are likely to need.
Round Bristle Brush
Annie Sloan’s bristle Chalk Paint® Brushes are handmade and available in three sizes. The bristles are strong, yet pliable, and are made of predominantly pure bristle with natural split ends, allowing you to paint expressively.
The brushes have a rounded surface and have continuous bristles which means they have no hole in the centre like imitation brushes.
This means they can hold a large amount of paint, for fast, consistent coverage and can also be used for applying wax.
They are perfect for producing a textured, vintage finish, synonymous with Chalk Paint™.
Top tip: You can avoid cleaning your brush in between coats by storing it in a sandwich bag or wrapping it in clingfilm and putting it in the fridge until you are ready to use it again. To clean, simply run your brush under warm water, apply a gentle dish soap and rinse thoroughly. The bristles may stain from the pigments but will be clean and ready for the next task.
Synthetic Flat Brush
Chalk Paint™ is best known for creating a textured finish, but when used in the right way, with the right brush, it can also produce a modern, smooth finish.
Annie Sloan’s Flat Brushes feature advanced synthetic fibres making them the perfect option if you want to create this contemporary look.
The brushes can take a large amount of paint and produce a finish that’s free of brush marks. They are available in two sizes.
Top tip: Hold the brush vertically and apply paint generally first. Then use a light hand and the tips to “feather” the paint for a stroke free finish. For an even smoother result, using a very fine grit, lightly sand the first coat once dry, before applying a thinner second coat. Dry and repeat sanding before waxing, for a silky-smooth finish.
Roller
Annie Sloan high-quality sponge rollers are a great option for a smoother finish, especially over a larger surface area.
They are our top choice when using the Annie Sloan Stencil collection and are easy to use when applying Chalk Paint® and lacquer. We stock both small and large rollers featuring an ergonomic wooden handle. They can be washed and reused, or replaced over time.
Top tip: Use the roller in all directions to apply the paint. Avoid trying to make straight lines - it will smooth and level itself.
If you need help choosing the right brush or roller for your next project the Little Gems Interiors team are always happy to advise.
Check out the full range here