How to Paint Over an Interior Satin Finish Paint

The process for repainting a wall is straightforward.

Painting over satin paint is a straightforward process. A satin or flat paint finish is commonly applied to the surface of drywall and offers very little gloss or sheen, so it can be harder to keep the walls clean. In addition, satin paint can last a shorter amount of time compared to semi-gloss or high-gloss paint since there is no protective finish.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Painter's tape
• 400-grit sanding block
• Tack cloth
• 3-inch-wide paintbrush
• Interior latex primer
• Paint rollers
• Interior latex paint

Instructions

1. Remove the cover plates from electrical outlets and switches with a screwdriver, and then tape off all the molding you do not wish to paint with painter's tape.

2. Sand the surface of the satin paint with a 400-grit sanding block. This creates a textured surface that helps the primer stick to the wall.

3. Wipe the wall down with a tack cloth to remove dust.

4. Cut in around the molding, window frames and along the ceiling with a 3-inch-wide paintbrush and an interior latex primer. "Cutting in" is the term used for painting around objects you cannot use a roller to paint.

5. Apply an interior latex primer to the wall with a paint roller to cover old paint. Use a wide "W" pattern to overlap each strike by 50 percent, which ensures adequate coverage. Wait 24 hours for the primer to dry.

6. Cut in around the molding, window frame and along the ceiling with the 3-inch-wide paintbrush and interior latex paint. You can use a satin, semi-gloss or high-gloss latex paint. Wait 24 hours, and then apply a second coat if needed.

References

• Real Simple: How To: Paint a Wall