INSIDE A MURAL PAINTER’s TOOL BOX
So, I’m going to keep this pretty cut and dry.
Below is a list of ALL the supplies I keep around for Mural Painting. Not all of these happen to fit in my tool box. Some supplies and tools are definitely more necessary for getting started, than others. Therefore, you may find this list broken into two sub-lists. Getting Started & Advanced/Larger Murals.
And remember, don’t worry about creating what everyone else is. Have fun with your client and explore ideas new & old. There is so much you can do with a little paint.
Make your lists, gather your supplies, check your lists again & thank me later! We are all in this together; trying to transform our communities one brush stroke at a time.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started. From Prep-work to Clean-up.
JUST GETTING STARTED: BASIC SUPPLIES
Protective Gear. It’s good to always have a pair of safety glasses, disposable gloves, coveralls/apron, and an appropriate mask if you expect heavy fumes or need to do prep-work on the walls like sanding. Gloves are great for the moments you NEED clean hands and QUICK. You never want to transfer paint anywhere unwanted.
Drop Cloth. Easy clean up and insurance for drips and spills. Self-explanatory. Plastic Drop cloths are not environment friendly but they are impermeable. Canvas Drop Cloths are what I use most, but remember large spills will seep through if left.
Painter’s Tape. I like to use the FROGTAPE brand myself. It makes for the cleanest linework.
Painter’s Caddy. This doesn’t have to be anything special, but you will need a designated space for dirty brushes in use.
5 Gal Bucket. You can get away with a smaller bucket for smaller projects or times you are not changing colors often. This bucket will hold water to clean your brushes.
Brushes.
Paint.
A Pallet for Mixing. If possible, it is good to premix colors off-site. This means a pallet would not be necessary and minor blending & mixing can be worked out on the wall itself. This can create a faster work flow than mixing on-site. TIP If we are being honest here, one of my favorite pallets is a recycled egg carton. Just close the carton when a session concludes and expect your pallet to still be wet the next day! Less waste the better in my book.
Step Stools & Ladders
ADVANCED OR LARGER PROJECTS
You will most likely need 1-x in the above list as well as a few specialty items to make larger jobs less intimidating. These specialty items may include:
Rollers & Paint Trays.
Snap-lines/Chalk-lines.
Projector. Don’t forget the extension cord, as well as lighting and casting limitations of the projector you have.
Scaffolds & Scissor Lifts.
