Whether you’re just starting out or have years of painting experience, having the right tools can make your project a whole lot easier. Even for simple jobs, there are a few must-have tools that make a big difference. That said, not every tool is necessary for every project—what you need really depends on the task at hand.

The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to get the job done well. While there are premium tools out there (and you’re welcome to splurge if you’d like), expensive doesn’t always mean better in the painting world. If you’re working with a budget, rest assured—you can still find everything you need without overspending.

Below are the tools I personally recommend. I’ve used each one myself and trust that you’ll find them just as helpful and reliable.

Paint Samples

Why waste time and money running around the stores looking for paint samples?

There is a more convenient and easier way!

I recommend using a peel and stick paint sample from SAMPLIZE. Peel and stick paint samples are very affordable and easy to use. They are also clean and environmentally friendly!

Here is why I love using Samplize paint samples:

  • EASY TO USE: Simply move your SAMPLIZE paint sample around the room to test under a variety of lighting conditions.
  • AFFORDABLE: Budget-friendly solution and no more buying inaccurate swatches, rollers, wasted paint.
  • SUPER FAST DELIVERY: Depending on your location, 1 day delivery is possible.
  • ORDER FROM HOME: Save a trip to the store looking for samples.
  • NO MESS: SAMPLIZE uses real paint samples with zero-mess
  • NO WASTE: No leftover cans or wasted paint.

These paint samples are simple and easy to order from home. No messing around at the stores. Try SAMPLIZE and see the difference. You will love them!

Save $12 with Samplize Top-Seller Paint Sample Bundles!

Painter’s Multi Tool

There are a variety of multi tools out there and they are all very convenient and affordable. They will make your life much easier!

The one I recommend is the DEWALT 9 in 1 painter’s tool. This tool is easy to carry around and is perfect for finishing drywall, scraping old paint, cleaning rollers, removing nails, opening bottles or cans.

Brush/Rollers

Of course, every painter will need a brush and roller to complete the job. If there was one tool where I would spend a little extra money on, it would be a quality brush and roller. You won’t be happy with the result of using a cheap brush.

A cheap brush may seem like a bargain, but it often leads to frustration, wasted paint, and a lower-quality finish. A good brush, on the other hand, makes painting smoother, cleaner, and far more enjoyable.

I recommend the Purdy Pro Extra Glide brush and the Bates Paint Roller Frame with covers.

Paint Roller/Tray Set

For most painting jobs, you will need a paint roller and tray set. These sets will include rollers and brushes of various sizes. These kits are very common and a great thing to have for starting your painting job.

Don’t forget the tray liners!

Drop Cloth

Many people will simply use old bed sheets or plastic sheets/garbage bags and throw them on the floor to be used as a drop cloth. Trust me – don’t do that!

Bed sheets and plastic bags can be a slipping hazard and many times paint will just go right though the bed sheets and onto the floor.

A proper drop sheet is worth having. Make sure to get a canvas one that has a non slip backing.

I recommend the CCS Canvas Drop Cloth for Painting.

Paint Brush Extender

This is one of my favorite tools. The paint brush extender by McCauley allows you to paint high and hard to reach areas without the use of a ladder more than 50% of the time. Paint overhead trim such as gutters, fascia, beams and rafters 20x faster.

Although this tool is not a necessity, it sure is handy!

Spackle

If you are filling nail holes and cracks in drywall, you can use a lightweight, quick dry spackle. Dap Fast N Final lightweight spackling is a great product for this purpose and no sanding is required.

Putty Knife

To apply spackle, putty, or plaster, you will need a putty knife. The flat metal blade allows you to spread spackle evenly across holes, dents, and cracks.

Instead of using a multi tool or other metal knives, the putty knife is more flexible allowing for better precision and pressure control.

I recommend using the DEWALT 2″ Putty Knife. It’s lightweight, has a comfortable handle, and a premium stainless steel blade. It won’t corrode like cheaper and less quality putty knives.

Painters Tape / Applicator

I know, I know. Some professional painters won’t use painters tape and it’s known as a “rookie” tool. But for most people, using painters tape is very helpful when cutting in for sharp, clean lines and surface protection.

Don’t use regular masking tape! It can tear drywall, leave sticky residue, or allow paint to seep under the edges. A good quality painters tape is designed to prevent this while providing cleaner lines, less mess, and more professional results, making it well worth having in almost any painting project.

I recommend FrogTape Multi-Surface Painters Tape along with the Scotch Blue Painters Tape Applicator.

Paint Sprayer

If you want to speed up your painting project, use a paint sprayer. These tools can range in price depending on it’s features, and they are not a necessity. If you are painting doors, fences, cabinets, walls, furniture, a paint sprayer can be very handy to have.

I recommend this 700w paint gun as it is a best seller and very affordable. It gets the job done without being fancy and overpriced.

Paint Pail/Cup

The paint pail is probably the most convenient item on the list. How many times have you been on a ladder and wished you could easily access the paint!

The paint pail will allow you to take your paint with you anywhere. If you are doing trim work, it’s so convenient to take the paint and brush with you with these paint pails/cups.

I recommend that you use the ones with the side strap and brush cup. The ROLLINGDOG 4″ (100mm) Paint Pail & Paint Cup holds 1L of paint, it’s very portable and easy to use.

Ladder

Unless you are doing large outdoor painting jobs, you won’t need a giant extension ladder. A step ladder extension will work great for most jobs.

The Valeo multi purpose step ladder will extend to 11 feet if needed. It will work on stairs, has anti slip, will hold up to 330 pounds, and folds away easy for storage. It also has a removeable tray which is great for holding tools.

Work Lights

If you are painting in an area of dim lighting, it can be difficult to see your work. Painting is one job where you need good lighting to help you see the true color, catch imperfections, and apply paint evenly.

You certainly don’t need high end expensive lights. A good quality work light will work fine. Good lighting ensures your paint job looks as good in real life as it did in your head. Accurate, smooth, and mistake-free.

I am currently using these 180W 20000 Lumen Dual-Head LED Work Light lights when I paint in a dim room. I highly recommend them.

Extension Pole

If you are painting high ceilings or walls, you may need to use an extension pole. They will allow you to reach these areas without using a ladder or to touch up areas out of your reach. The great thing about extension poles is they can be used for a variety of purposes like dusting, cleaning windows, or clearing debris.

I like to use an extension pole that can extend to a variety of heights. This extension pole has a range of 5 – 20 feet, has a comfortable handle, lightweight, and made of durable materials.

Sanding Block/Sponge

After you have filled in all those imperfections, it will be time to sand it down to a smooth finish. Yes, regular sandpaper will do the job, but having a sanding block is more efficient and easier to use.

You can buy an affordable variety pack with different grits. This is important as you may need a fine or course grit depending on the job.

I recommend using this sandpaper block variety pack.

Drywall Sanding Pole

If you have a large drywall area or hard to reach areas to sand, a drywall sanding pole will be very helpful. They will make your sanding job faster, eliminate grooves, dips, and uneven spots so much easier than hand sanding with a block.

Another advantage of using a sanding pole is the reduced strain on your arms, shoulders, and back. They also help in keeping the dust particles away from your face!

I recommend using this drywall sanding pole. It is fully adjustable and comes with multiple grit sanding discs.

Face Mask/Respirator

It’s always a good idea to wear a face mask when painting and sanding. Dust and other particles in the air can be harmful if breathed in. Fumes and chemicals are also harmful.

I recommend using this respirator/face mask which will protect you from these harmful chemicals in the air.

Sherwin Williams Colors Collection Deck

I am a huge fan of Sherwin Williams paint colors. If you are having trouble choosing the right color for your space and want to have every color option available, you should grab this complete paint colors fan deck.

Benjamin Moore Colors Collection Deck

If you prefer a color from Benjamin Moore, you can grab their complete paint colors fan deck here. I am also a Benjamin Moore fan, so many colors to choose from!