Painter’s Toolkit: Tools & Products I Recommend
These are the tools and products I use daily on painting jobs across London. Some are essential for DIYers, others are trade-grade tools worth investing in if you paint regularly. All links are to Amazon UK — I earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you.
Essential Painting Tools
Paint Rollers & Sleeves
Purdy Marathon Roller Sleeve — These hold more paint and release it evenly. They leave a smoother finish than cheap sleeves. I use 9-inch medium-pile for most walls and 4-inch for cutting in.
Wooster Microfiber Roller Sleeve — A good alternative to Purdy. Slightly cheaper, still excellent quality. Best for smooth walls.
Paint Brushes
Emitever Premium Paint Brushes Set — A versatile brush set perfect for cutting in, trim work, and detailed painting. Great value for DIYers and professionals alike.
Purdy XL Cub Angular Sash Brush (2-inch) — The best brush for cutting in around ceilings, skirting boards, and window frames. Holds its shape, doesn’t shed bristles, and gives sharp lines.
Proform Extra Firm Flat Brush (3-inch) — Great for painting larger flat surfaces like doors and panels.
Roller Trays & Extensions
Hamilton Perfection Roller Tray — A metal tray with a ridged base that loads the roller evenly. Much better than the cheap plastic trays that flex and spill.
Purdy Power Lock Extension Pole — Essential for high ceilings (common in London Victorian properties). Telescopic, locks securely, and fits most roller cages.
Prep & Repair Tools
Fillers & Compounds
Toupret Interior Filler — The best filler for walls. It doesn’t shrink, sands easily, and can be applied in thin or thick layers. Worth paying extra for.
Polycell Multi-Purpose Polyfilla — A good budget alternative. Fine for small holes and cracks.
Sanding Tools
3M Sanding Block (Medium/Fine) — Reusable, washable sanding block. More comfortable than wrapping paper around a block of wood.
Pole Sander with Clamp — For sanding ceilings and high walls without a ladder. Essential for tall rooms.
Caulking
GE Advanced Silicone Sealant (Anthracite) — The colour I use most for modern bathrooms and kitchens. Matches grey grout perfectly.
Caulking Smoothing Tool Set — Gives professional, consistent beads. Better than using your finger.
Protection & Safety
Heavy-Duty Dust Sheets (Cotton Canvas) — Plastic sheets are slippery and tear. Cotton canvas stays put and lasts for years.
3M Respirator Mask (Half Face, 6000 Series) — For sanding and painting in enclosed spaces. Much better than disposable dust masks.
FrogTape Delicate Surface Painter’s Tape — Gives sharp paint lines without peeling off fresh paint. Worth the extra cost over cheap masking tape.
Need a Professional Instead?
If your project is bigger than a single room, or you want a guaranteed professional finish without the hassle, I can help. I cover Brixton, Peckham, Clapham, Kennington, and all South London.
Disclosure: Some links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I use and trust.