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Best Way to Paint Interior Walls | Chicago Painting Pros

June 24, 2025•3 min read

Painting your interior walls can dramatically improve your home's appearance. But what is the best way to paint interior walls to achieve a professional, lasting finish? Whether you're tackling a DIY job or hiring top painters in Chicago, IL, knowing the best techniques and tools is key.

Let’s explore how to paint like a pro—step by step—with local expertise from Bright Star Painting, your trusted interior painting company in Chicago.

1. Why Prep Work Is Crucial Before Painting

Professional results start with thorough preparation:

Clean your walls to remove dust, oil, or stains.
Patch holes and sand rough areas smooth.
Use painter’s tape to mask trim and outlets.
Protect floors with drop cloths.

Preparation ensures paint adheres evenly and lasts longer.

2. Tools Every Pro Painter in Chicago Uses

Chicago’s top painters rely on:

Angled brushes for edges and trim
9-inch rollers with a 3/8" or 1/2" nap for walls
Paint trays and liners for quick reloads
Extension poles for ceilings and tall walls
Paint sprayers for large, even coverage

For a full list of pro-recommended tools, check out Painters Guide To Painting Tools.

3. Brush vs. Roller: What’s Better for Walls?

Wondering if a brush or roller is best?

Brushes offer control and precision—great for edges.
Rollers cover more area fast and evenly—perfect for large walls.

Pro tip: Use a brush for corners and a roller for open spaces.

4. Spray vs. Roll: Which Delivers the Best Finish?

Many ask: Should I spray or roll my interior walls?

Sprayers offer a super-smooth, fast finish but require more prep and skill.
Rollers are more forgiving and ideal for small spaces or DIY painters.

In most Chicago homes, rollers offer the perfect balance of speed and quality.

5. Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Interior Walls

Here’s how to paint like a pro:

Prep the room and patch the walls.
Prime (if needed for new drywall or stains).
Cut in edges with a brush.
Roll the walls in a “W” or “M” pattern.
Let dry fully before applying a second coat.
Remove tape carefully and clean up.

Want a deeper dive? See Benjamin Moore's interior painting guide for expert walkthroughs and printable checklists.

6. Common Mistakes DIY Painters Make

Avoid these common errors:

Skipping prep
Using cheap brushes
Overloading the roller
Painting without a primer
Not letting coats dry properly

Bright Star Painting ensures every detail is handled professionally.

7. How Professional Painters in Chicago Get It Right

At Bright Star, our licensed painters in Chicago:

Use high-quality materials
Offer color consultations
Protect your furniture and floors
Provide smooth, even finishes
Stick to timelines and budgets
Learn more about Our Work in Chicago, IL and Beyond

8. Choosing the Right Paint Finish for Your Space

Each room needs the right finish:

Room Recommended Finish Living Room Eggshell or Satin Kitchen/Bathroom Semi-Gloss Bedroom Matte or Eggshell Hallways Satin (easy to clean)

Not sure what to pick? Our experts can guide you.

Curious about finishes? Read Behr's guide to Paint Finishes Explained to see which sheen suits your space best.