What can you do when you make a mistake when painting? Remember these tips.
Even the most careful DIY painters run into mistakes now and then. Maybe you spotted a streak after the paint dried, accidentally splattered trim, or noticed uneven coverage once the sunlight hit. The good news? Most painting mistakes are easy to fix if you know what to do.
At Columbia Paint Company, we help homeowners and pros get smooth, flawless finishes, and that includes recovering from the occasional mishap. Here’s how to handle common paint problems whether they happen during the job or right after you finish.
Fixing Mistakes While You’re Painting
Visible Brush Marks or Roller Streaks
How to fix it:
- Lightly smooth the area with your brush or roller while the paint is still wet.
- Use long, even strokes or a light final roll in one direction.
- Avoid overworking the paint—too much going back and forth can make it worse.
Pro Tip: Use the correct roller nap for your surface. The wrong texture often causes streaks.
Drips and Runs
These happen when too much paint is applied, especially on vertical surfaces.
How to fix it:
- Catch it while wet and gently smooth over with a brush or roller.
- If it has slightly dried, wait until it’s fully dry, sand down the drip, and repaint the area.
Accidental Spills or Splatter
Don’t panic—acting fast is key.
How to fix it:
- On hard surfaces: wipe immediately with a damp cloth.
- On fabric or carpet: blot gently with warm, soapy water—don’t scrub.
- On trim or hardware: carefully wipe with a damp cloth; if dried, use a plastic scraper.
Avoid harsh cleaners that could damage surfaces.
Fixing Issues After the Paint Has Dried
Missed Spots or Patchy Coverage
Sometimes uneven areas only show once paint dries.
How to fix it:
- Let the wall fully dry.
- Apply a second (or third) coat as needed for consistent coverage.
Patience wins here—rushing can lead to more mistakes.
Roller Marks or Lap Lines
These often appear when paint dries at different times and edges overlap.
How to fix it:
- Sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper.
- Repaint using consistent pressure and work in small, controlled sections.
- Maintain a “wet edge” to avoid overlap marks.
Peeling or Bubbling Paint
This usually happens when moisture or dirt prevents proper adhesion.
How to fix it:
- Scrape away loose paint.
- Sand the surface smooth.
- Prime the area, then repaint.
If bubbling keeps returning, you may have a moisture problem and should address it before repainting.
Color Looked Different Than Expected
Lighting and surface type can affect final appearance.
How to fix it:
- Allow paint to fully cure—colors can shift slightly as they dry.
- If the color still doesn’t look right, consider repainting with a sample tested first in various lighting conditions.
Tips to Prevent Painting Mistakes
- Prep surfaces properly (clean, sand, and prime when needed)
- Use quality brushes and rollers
- Don’t overload brushes or rollers
- Follow correct drying times between coats
- Keep a damp cloth nearby for quick cleanup
Preparation and patience are your best painting tools.
Need Help Choosing Paint or Tools?
Mistakes don’t mean you’ve failed, they’re just a part of learning and improving. With the right products and a little know-how, you can fix nearly any painting issue and achieve a smooth, professional look.
Visit Columbia Paint Company for expert advice, premium paint supplies, and helpful tips for your next project. Whether you’re a weekend DIYer or a seasoned pro, we’re here to help every brushstroke look its best.
Stop by our showroom or contact us today—we love helping you paint with confidence.
NEW LOCATIONS! VISIT THE US AND EXPLORE!
We’ve moved from the Dobbin Road location to our new, roomy location just down the road:
Columbia Paint and Decorating, a Benjamin Moore Dealer
6822 Oak Hall Lane, Suite C2, Columbia, MD 21045
443-319-4001
Expect the same one-stop shopping for all your decorating needs. We are a full-service Benjamin Moore dealer offering the best quality decorating products at the best prices. We have an ample supply of paint and paint supplies, wallcoverings, custom window treatments, fabrics, and now NEW flooring selections from Kaleen Rugs and Luxury Vinyl Tile samples.
And, of course, the same excellent customer service, knowledge, and customer satisfaction that you’ve come to expect.
ANNOUNCING OUR SECOND LOCATION:
Clarksville Paint & Decorating, a Benjamin Moore Dealer
12447 Clarksville Pike, Suite 1A, Clarksville, MD