Paint reviews, guides, and color
Independent paint and tool round-ups. Project step-by-steps. Color references and brand reviews. Every product pick lists a real con — no review without a real weakness.
How to Handle Grooves When Painting Wood Paneling
Grooves in wood paneling read darker or shinier than the flats because the roller can't reach the bottom. Brush the grooves first, roll the faces, and they disappear.
When You Must Hire a Certified RRP Firm
Pre-1978 home with peeling paint? Here's exactly when the law forces you to hire a certified RRP firm, when you can DIY, and how to tell the difference before you scrape.
How to Fix Yellowing Trim Paint
Yellowing trim paint is usually an oil or alkyd binder oxidizing in low UV light. Diagnose it with a wipe test, then repaint in a non-yellowing waterborne alkyd.
Best Airbrushes for Miniatures
Five airbrushes tested on minis, terrain, and primer. Top pick: Iwata Eclipse HP-CS for the 0.35-millimeter all-rounder that primes and zeniths without a tip swap.
Best Airbrush Thinners and Flow Improvers
Five airbrush thinners and flow improvers tested across acrylics, model paint, and fine art work. Top pick: Golden Airbrush Medium for clog-free atomization.
Best Angled Sash Brushes for 2026
Five angled sash brushes tested on walls, trim, and cabinets. Top pick: Purdy XL Glide 2.5-inch for the cleanest cut line at a price that earns it.
Best Bucket-Edge and No-Tape Cut-In Tools
Six bucket-edge and no-tape cut-in tools tested on walls, ceilings, and trim. Top pick: the Accubrush MX, the edger that cuts a clean line without painter's tape.
Best Cheap Paint Brushes That Don't Fail
Cheap paint brushes that are actually good, tested on walls, trim, and cut-in. Top pick: Wooster Softip, a smooth-finish synthetic for under eight dollars.
Best Paint Sprayers for Furniture Refinishing
Five paint sprayers tested on dressers, chairs, and cabinet doors. Top pick: Wagner FLEXiO 3500 for the best sprayer for furniture that handles paint and stain.
Best Infrared Paint Strippers
Five infrared paint strippers tested on lead-painted siding, sash windows, and trim. Top pick: the Speedheater Standard 1100 for safe, chemical-free removal.
Best Lazy Susans for Furniture Painting
Five lazy susans and turntables tested for furniture painting. Top pick: the Rockler Finishing Turntable for spinning a chair while you keep a wet edge.
Best Mohair Rollers for 2026
Five mohair roller covers tested on cabinets, doors, and trim for a near-sprayed gloss finish. Top pick: Wooster Mohair Blend 1/4-inch nap for the smoothest enamel.