I get the appeal of taking your time, but honestly, I’ve had decent luck with the “all at once” approach—especially when I’m on a tight budget and can’t drag out the project for days. Here’s what’s worked for me: I prep everything the night before (tape, drop cloths, moving furniture), then do all the cutting in first thing. I use those cheap foam brushes for corners and edges, and as long as I don’t overload them, they’re not too bad. For the main walls, a roller with an extension pole saves my back. It’s not perfect, but if you’re careful and keep a wet edge, you can get it done in a day or two without spending a ton on fancy brushes. Not saying it’s for everyone, but sometimes you just need to get it done and move on.
I’m with you—sometimes you just need to power through and get it done, especially if you’re juggling work or family stuff. Prepping the night before is a game changer. I’d just add, if you’re using foam brushes, keep an eye out for loose bits—they can shed if you’re not careful. I’ve had to pick a few out of fresh paint more than once... Not the end of the world, but worth watching for.
I’ve definitely learned the hard way that rushing never pays off, especially in an old house with all its quirks. My step-by-step is usually: mask and prep the night before, then tackle one wall (or even just a section) at a time. I’ll use angled brushes for trim—foam ones always leave me picking out little bits too, which drives me nuts. If I feel myself getting impatient, I just remind myself that paint dries... but regret sticks around way longer.
Title: How do you pace your painting projects—slow and steady or all at once?
I hear you on the foam brushes—those things are a nightmare for trim. I’ve tried them a couple times thinking maybe I’d just gotten a bad batch, but nope, always end up picking out little bits of foam from the paint. Angled sash brush is the only way to go for me, even if it takes longer.
I’m with you on breaking it up over a couple days, especially in older houses where nothing is square and there’s always some weird patch or crack hiding behind the baseboard. I used to try to get everything done in one weekend, but I’d always end up missing spots or getting paint where it shouldn’t be. Now I’ll do all my taping and patching one night, then just focus on one wall at a time—gives me a chance to really check for drips or missed spots before moving on.
Curious if you ever use painter’s tape for your trim, or do you just freehand it? I’ve gone back and forth. Sometimes I feel like taping takes almost as long as just being careful with a good brush, but then again, when I’m tired or working late, that extra insurance helps.
Also, how do you deal with those old plaster walls that seem to soak up paint like crazy? I’ve had to prime twice in some rooms just to get an even finish. Wondering if there’s some trick I’m missing, or if it’s just part of the charm of these old places...
You’re definitely not alone with the foam brush struggle—those things are more trouble than they’re worth, especially on old trim. I’ve seen way too many folks try to save time with them and just end up with a mess. Angled sash brush is the gold standard in my book, even if it means slowing down a bit.
On the tape vs. freehand debate, I’ll admit I’m a bit old school and usually freehand unless I’m dealing with a really tricky edge or I know I’m going to be distracted. Tape can be a lifesaver when you’re tired or rushing, but like you said, it’s almost as much work as just being careful. Sometimes I’ll use a short piece of tape as a guide and move it along as I go, just to keep things neat without spending forever taping everything.
As for those thirsty plaster walls, that’s just part of the charm (or headache) of older homes. Two coats of primer isn’t unusual, especially if the surface hasn’t been painted in a while. I’ve had luck with a high-build primer or even a quick skim coat if things are really rough. You’re definitely not missing anything obvious—sometimes it’s just about patience and persistence.