How do I ensure a 1st class professional finish when selecting Trade1st Painting and Decorating Supplies? Here at Trade1st we are very proud of our mission.

Get the right painting and decorating supplies

There are four key areas:

1. Thorough preparation.
2. The correct selection and use of painting and decorating supplies.
3. An understanding of the properties of the materials employed.
4. An understanding of the surfaces that require decorating

What are Trade1st Painting and Decorating Key Tips?

- Complete all your preparation before you start the application of paint or paper.
- Keep the decorating areas clean and tidy and dust free.
- Prepare for spills or mistakes - protect floors and carpets with dust sheets and have available a cleaning cloth.
- Buy the best quality tools and equipment you can afford - this can significantly affect the time and the finished result.
- Ensure you have the correct tools and equipment and enough materials to complete the work.
- Follow the instructions on tins, other materials and tools.
- Do not rush; give coatings time to dry before re applying.
- Wear loose fitting cotton overalls or jeans and cotton shirt and a decorator’s cap/hat when necessary.

What are the best painting and decorating supplies available in the UK?

Trade 1st believe there are a number of manufacturers attempting to promote their decorating supplies using social media in the UK market, with exaggerated claims of life changing benefits and un-believable performance levels. However, it is not that straightforward as there is no ‘best’ individual tool. Painting and decorating supplies performance can vary from job to job, depending on the types of paint, brands of paint and surfaces concerned. The selected decorating tool can also affect performance, depending on the thickness and even the temperature of the paint.  Strangely it follows that a brush can perform excellently using leading branded emulsion paint during the winter, and performs badly using the same leading brand of paint during the summer.

How much should I spend? What is value for money?

With most products, you get what you pay for; this is certainly the case with painting and decorating tools.  Value for money for a professional painter and decorator is very different to that of a DIYer.  Decorator’s tools must be well constructed, making them robust and long lasting. They will be required for daily use; be able to withstand regular cleaning, and deliver a quality paint finish over and over again. Decorators need to look after their decorating equipment to ensure they obtain maximum value for money and longevity of tools.

Is personnel preference a factor?

With so many different painting styles and different personal requirements, it is essential that painters and decorators try out a number of different tools, to find those they are comfortable with. A good starting place is to purchase leading brands within the market such as Purdy, Hamilton, Wooster and many more, that Trade 1st continually promote as ranges throughout the website.