Step 1: Clean the surface

man sanding a wall using a sanding pole and sandpaper
Photo: Kolin Smith
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First, turn off the power, remove any receptacle faceplates, and cover each receptacle with painter's tape. Using a sanding pole fitted with 120-grit sandpaper, smooth the wall to remove any rough texture that could prevent the tape edges from fully adhering to the wall. Wipe the wall clean with a large, damp sponge and allow it to dry completely.
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    Tools List

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    • swivel head pole sander
      Sanding Pole
      fitted with 120-grit sandpaper sponge
    • ¼x2-inch Stick
      cut to the length of the repeating pattern
    • four-foot level
      4-foot Level
    • small plastic putty knife
      Plastic Putty Knife
      to seal the tape before painting
    • 1-inch and 2½-inch angled paintbrushes
      Get one brush per paint color
    • mini-roller
      4-inch Roller Frame with Foam Covers
      Get one frame and cover per paint color

    Shopping List

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    1. 1-inch Delicate-adhesion Painter's Tape Double the total number of wall stripes, and multiply that number by the height of the wall to determine how much tape you'll need. A roll is about 180 feet long, and you'll need a roll or two extra.2. Paint Cups with Disposable Trays Get one paint cup for each color.

    3. Paint Avoid the need for a second coat by choosing a premium latex paint.

    4. Drop Cloth