After you've cleaned, sanded and masked, don't forget the important step of priming interior surfaces. Bare wood, drywall, patching compound, and plaster need primer to seal the surface. You will use less topcoat and the color will lay rich on the top layer. More on Enamel Undercoat and MultiPurpose Primers.

Stained walls and ceilings need primer to lock the stain from migrating to your topcoat. Some woods naturally bleed tannins. These stains will come through the topcoat no matter how many coats you apply. Select a stain blocking primer best for the type of stain, either an oil based or latex based product. More on Stain Blocking Primers.

Spot priming means you apply a primer only to those spots that need it. If you've sanded down to bare surface, you need to prime those spots. For some stains, spot priming is the best way to save time and lock in the stain from migrating to the topcoat. Don't forget to feather sand so the topcoat applies evenly.

Prime glossy surfaces to promote adhesion of the topcoat.

There are three ways to prime a glossy surface:
1. Use a latex or oil-based primer formulated for glossy surface adhesion.
2. Use a liquid deglosser such as Prepaint, following all label instructions.
3. Go over the surface with 200 grit sandpaper. The scuffing will help the new paint adhere. Then wash the surface with TSP, rinse with water, and let dry. More on MultiPurpose Primers.

Dramatic color changes look professional when you use the right primer. Use a high hiding primer if you paint a light color over a dark color. Use a tintable primer if painting a dark color over a light color. More on High Hiding and Tintable Primers. If you aren't sure if you need a primer or which primer to use, contact Customer Service.