Knowing paint types makes job easier

Do-it-yourselfers can avoid spending time and money on costly fix-ups by doing a little homework before painting interior walls and woodwork.
First, familiarize yourself with the characteristics of different paints. Latex and acrylic paints can be thinned with water. They dry faster, clean up more easily and cover most surfaces that have been properly primed, including walls that have been previously painted. These paints tend to peel if applied over oil-based paints.
Alkyd paints are thicker and require solvents for thinning and cleanup. They dry slower than latex or acrylics, but they are excellent for hiding flaws and can be used to cover old oil paint. In spite of their drawbacks -- slow drying time, strong odors, messy cleanup -- oil-based enamel paints are more durable.
The type of paint you use will depend on whether you're painting over oil or acrylic paint, wallpaper, paneling or raw wood. With raw wood, you need to use a primer to ensure the wall doesn't soak up the paint. Ask the experts at your local hardware, paint or building supply store for advice if you are unsure.
How are your walls?
Consider the condition of your walls before you choose your paint's finish: flat, satin, low-sheen, gloss or semigloss. Flat paint creates a matte look because the pigment diffuses light, but they are difficult to clean. Low-sheen paints offer a slight shine and are good for bathrooms and kitchens because they are easy to clean. Satin finish has about half the shine of a glossy paint, but satin paints will highlight imperfections. For maximum shine, go with gloss.
Choosing a paintbrush might seem like a simple assignment, but it can have a big effect on the time you'll spend painting and the look of the finished project. There are two basic kinds of brushes -- natural and synthetic -- and this is one case where you get what you pay for. White bristles are usually finer, making them best suited for lacquers and varnishes.
Natural bristle brushes absorb water, so they're recommended only for oil-based paints. Acrylic and latex paints require a nylon or polyester brush. Nylon bristles hold their shape better.
The tip of your brush will affect the look of your paint job. An angled brush is more versatile and will allow you to paint a finer line. Smaller brushes allow more control but will slow you down. Use a bigger brush for large areas, especially if you're using a fast-drying paint.