How to Cut in Paint Properly

Cutting in paint is an essential technique that you need to master if you want to achieve the best results for your clients. With our expert tips for cutting in paint, you’ll not only learn how to cut in paint, but also how to paint around plug sockets and tackle corners when painting feature walls.

The cutting in paint tools you’ll need:

Paint Brush of Choice (Cutting In Brush and/or Straight Edge Brush)
Paint Kettle
Masking Tape
Masking Paper

7 tips for cutting in paint on walls and ceilings

Tip 1: Once your paint is mixed, stirred and ready to apply, load your brush by tapping it on the side of the paint kettle. This will ensure your brush has enough paint on it when cutting in.

Tip 2: For accuracy, stay about 1 inch away from the line you want to cut to. This’ll allow you to carefully approach the cutting in line when you start painting.

Tip 3: You should now have the confidence to cut in with one smooth stroke or motion across the wall or ceiling.

Tip 4: Only paint about 2 inches away from the cutting in line with your brush. Your roller can tackle the rest of the wall.

Tip 5: Continue loading the paint up, slightly away from surface, and make sure the wide part of the brush is facing upwards.

Tip 6: Hold the brush towards your head, so you can see what the bristles on your brush are doing.

Tip 7: Take your time. Slow and steady wins the race when cutting in paint.

Tips on how to paint a feature wall

Corners can be tricky for the best of us. So, if you’re painting a feature wall, here are a few bonus tips to help you nail your cutting in technique.

Tip 1: Use an angled brush when you approach the corner and twist slightly into the corner in an upward motion. Then pull away towards the feature wall.

Tip 2: Go back to the corner and repeat in a vertical motion to cut in from the ceiling down to the floor.

Tip 3: Always make sure you can see what the bristles are doing and cover skirting boards with masking tape to protect the other colour.

Tips on how to paint around plug sockets

Tip 1: Start underneath the plug socket, then do the sides and finish with the top section.

Tip 2: Load your brush and paint away from the plug socket, before gradually moving closer.

Tip 3: Finish up by going over the painted area with a light touch of the bristles. Then lightly paint one stroke across each corner at 45 degrees. That’s how to get rid of cutting in lines when painting.

Got to see it to believe it? Dulux Academy Skills Development Consultant, Matt Gray, has put our tips for cutting in paint to the test. Watch him in action.

Or if you’re looking for more advice on how to protect trims and skirting boards, read our guide on Masking Tape Painting 101.