GET PREPARED FOR DECORATING - Ideal Home, Britain's best-selling homes magazine

Essential decorating kit

Make decorating easy by having the right tools to hand.

Check our kit list, and you'll avoid those last-minute dashes to the DIY store.

Wallpaper table

A W-leg paste table is very sturdy and folds flat for easy storage. Plastic models are easier to keep clean than wood.

Paint tray

Make sure it's wide enough to fit rollers and paint pads. A deep end section will hold more paint so you'll need to refill it less often.

Paste brush

Specialist wallpaper paste brushes have softer bristles, so they're easier to use, though you can use a large paintbrush instead.

Dustsheet

Spills do happen so use a dustsheet to cover and protect walls and furniture.

Steamer

This is the fastest way to strip wallpaper without damaging the plaster. Buy one for around £25 or hire for around £18 for a weekend.

Paint Roller

Buy both short and telescopic handles for reaching up walls. The best-value rollers have synthetic heads, which are ideal for painting smooth surfaces with emulsions and water-based paints.

Paintbrushes

Buy the best-quality brushes you can afford, look after them well and they should last for years. You'll need a 50mm for doors and 100mm for walls, floors and ceilings. Smaller brushes, 2.5cm, and sash brushes (used for cutting in) are essential for fiddly work.

Wire brush

To remove flaking paint and rust.

Paper-hanging scissors

Extra-long blades help you cut straight lines.

Masking tape

Don't rely on your painting being accurate – always use tape to cover wall sockets and window frames for a professional finish.

Sponge

Keep mess to a minimum: a good sponge can mop up paint and paste spills quickly and easily.

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