Housepainting experts - cutting in paint, before or after rolling?

Question

I've heard a difference of opinion about when to "cut in" paint at the corners and edges of a room.

Theory A: Do the edges first. Make a "frame" and then roller in the rest of the wall.

Theory B: Do the edges last. Do the roller work first, covering as close as you can to the edges, then touch up edges while the paint is still wet - using a light feathery stroke. This guy says the finish will be better than option A (above) as there's better blending.

Theory C: It doenn't matter, before or after, as long as paint is still wet.

Any comments, people?

Answer 1

Thousands og gallons of paint later I CUT first, roll after. The likelyhood is that you'll two coat anyway, and cut twice, roll twice.

The issue in the rolling second is to eliminate as much as possible of any brush storkes, since the Roll is the primary thing that is viewed.

Certainly the quality of a brush and paint help, and as a pro; one can achieve a seamless look, and the paint can FLOW, but My choice after all my years is cut then roll.

Another issue is COLOR and formulation of the paint. A semi gloss almost NEVER covers in one coat; but will show brush marks and a slightly different shade between roller and brush. RED in any formulation is the most challenging to match/flow/hide

Steven Wolf

Answer 2

I find it easier to cut in before rolling as you can concentrate on the cutting and forget about the blending. When cutting is finished you can roller as near as possible for a beautiful finish. Anytime I do it in reverse, I see brush marks around the edges, but then I'm not a professional!

Answer 3

Cut in the edges first. Out about six to eight inches from the edge. This way you can roll the paint on up to the "cut in" quickly and avoid any smudges or dabs of paint on other surfaces not being painted.

I know, I remodeled my house and learned the hard way.

Answer 4

I don't think it makes a difference. I've done it both ways and you couldn't see a difference. Personal choice....cut edges first and do fields after.

Answer 5

Cut in first, therefore you have a line you know not to cross over with your roller. If you cross that line, you get paint on the ceiling.

Answer 6

theory "A" all the time, the fella who told you "B" has got it the wrong way round you get better blending after you cut in, the roller will hide any brush marks, that is of course if you leave any

Answer 7

I was a self employed decorator and I always cut in first - Theory B has no real relevance.

Answer 8

Cut in first, every time. You will be able to see the join otherwise.

Answer 9

always cut in first. it does a better job and prevents you from leaning on a freshly rolled wall as you're cutting in.

Answer 10

B4 always