What do professional painters use for edging?

Professional painters use a variety of tools for edging, depending on the specific task. Some of the most common tools include:

• Trim brushes: These brushes are designed to have a fine, tapered tip, which allows them to get into tight spaces and create sharp edges.

• Angle brushes: These brushes have a slanted edge, which makes them ideal for cutting in along walls, ceilings, and trim.

• Cutting pads: These pads are made of soft, flexible material, such as foam or vinyl, and they are used to create smooth, clean lines around door and window frames, baseboards, and other molding.

• Edgers: These are specialized tools that are designed to create crisp, sharp edges. They typically have a narrow, flexible blade that is held at an angle.

• Rivet knives: These knives have a sharp, pointed blade that is used to score the paint along an edge, making it easier to remove the excess paint with a brush or pad.

In addition to these tools, professional painters also use a variety of techniques to create clean, crisp edges. Some of these techniques include:

• Pre-wetting: This involves spraying the area around the edge with water before applying the paint. This helps to prevent the paint from drying too quickly and bleeding over onto the unpainted surface.
• Thinning the paint: This makes the paint more fluid and easier to control, which can help to prevent it from bleeding over the edge.
• Using a light touch: Applying the paint with a light touch can help to prevent it from building up and bleeding over the edge.
• Working in small sections: Working in small sections will help to ensure that the paint is applied evenly and that there are no gaps or runs.

By using the right tools and techniques, professional painters can create clean, crisp edges that are virtually invisible. This can help to make the finished project look more professional and polished.