How to Buy Quality Painting Supplies
The $5 brush at the hardware store seems like a deal. Then it sheds bristles into your paint and gives you a streaky finish. Use our estimator to budget for quality supplies that make the difference.
🛒 Painting Supplies Budget Estimator
Use the Paint Calculator to determine how many gallons you need
Paint Quality
Brush Quality
Tools & Supplies
Budget Breakdown
Quick Summary
Time needed
1 hour shopping
Cost
$150-300 per room
Difficulty
Easy
Where to Invest vs Where to Save
You don't need the most expensive version of everything, but certain items are worth the investment.
Worth the Investment
- ✓ Quality paint (premium brands)
- ✓ Good brushes (Purdy, Wooster)
- ✓ Quality painter's tape (FrogTape, 3M)
- ✓ Canvas drop cloths
- ✓ Roller extension pole
OK to Go Budget
- • Roller covers (disposable anyway)
- • Paint tray liners
- • Plastic sheeting for extra coverage
- • Putty knives
- • Mixing sticks
Complete Shopping List
1. Paint (Most Important)
Recommended Brands:
Benjamin Moore Regal Select or Aura
$60-80/gallon. Excellent coverage, beautiful finish, low VOC.
Sherwin-Williams Duration or Emerald
$55-75/gallon. Very durable, one-coat coverage often possible.
Behr Marquee or Premium Plus Ultra
$35-45/gallon. Good value, available at Home Depot. Best budget option.
Pro Tip: Premium paint typically costs $20 more per gallon but requires fewer coats and lasts twice as long.
2. Brushes (Critical for Quality)
2-2.5 inch Angled Brush - $12-18
For cutting in edges, corners, and trim. This is your main brush.
Recommended: Purdy XL, Wooster Pro, or Benjamin Moore brushes
Why Quality Matters: A $15 brush holds 3x more paint than a $4 brush, gives cleaner lines, doesn't shed bristles, and lasts for 10+ years.
3. Rollers and Accessories
- 9-inch roller frame$8-12. Get a sturdy metal frame, not plastic.
- Roller covers$4-8 each. 3/8" nap for smooth walls, 1/2" for textured. Buy 2-3 per room.
- Extension pole$15-25. 4-8 foot adjustable. Saves your back, eliminates ladder needs.
- Paint tray$3-5. Plastic is fine. Get disposable liners ($5 for 10).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is expensive paint worth it for interior walls?
Yes, premium paint is worth the extra $15-25 per gallon. It covers better (often needing fewer coats), goes on smoother, hides imperfections better, and lasts significantly longer.
What's the most important tool to spend money on?
A quality 2-inch angled brush is the most important tool investment. A $12-15 Purdy or Wooster brush holds more paint, gives cleaner cut-ins, creates smoother finishes, and lasts through multiple projects.
Can I reuse painting supplies for future projects?
Quality brushes, roller frames, extension poles, paint trays, and drop cloths last for years if properly cleaned and stored. Only roller covers are typically single-use.
Ready for the Next Step?
Now that you have all your supplies, it's time to start the actual work. Begin by moving furniture away from walls to create workspace.