Paint the Trim First, Then the Ceilings and Walls
Roll Paint Along the Edges for Consistent Texture
Prime and Texture Wall Patches to Avoid a Blotchy Finish
Let Paint Dry, Then Cut the Tape Loose for a Perfect Edge
How To Avoid Lap Marks when Wall Painting
Feather Out the Paint Where You Can't Keep a Wet Edge
You can't cover large areas like ceilings, extra-tall walls or stairwells in single, continuous strokes, so the best way to minimize lap marks on these areas is to feather out the paint along the edges that you can't keep wet. The thinner, feathered coat of paint will avoid the buildup that causes the lap mark.
To paint a large section without leaving lap marks, roll the nearly dry roller in different directions along the dry edge, feathering out the paint as you go. After completing the entire length of the wall or ceiling, move to the next section and paint over the feathered edges. For the second coat, apply the paint in the opposite direction. This crisscrossing paint application sharply reduces (if not eliminates) lap marks.