Next, I used 220-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections, uneven patches, or previous paint drips. I made sure to focus on any bumps and uneven texture. This allowed me to ensure I was starting with a smooth base. After sanding I wiped the walls down with a microfiber mop.

First, I laid down my drop cloth using painter’s tape. I prefer the paper drop cloth because it makes cleaning up super easy, I don't have to worry about paint leaking through the fabric drop cloth and it’s not slippery like a plastic drop cloth.

Once my drop cloth was in place, I removed the outlet covers. When I first started painting, I would leave the covers on and no matter how careful I was, I always got paint on them. So, learn from me and do it right the first time.  

Next, I went in with my Valspar 4-in x 3/8-in Nap Walls and Ceilings Polyester Mini Paint Roller.  This step helped me to blend the brush strokes out and get into the corners of the walls. This acts as a transition between the cut in areas and the larger areas.

After the entire wall was covered, my next step was to backroll, which entails going over the wet paint with a dry roller. This ensures an even coverage. 

After I sanded the first coat of paint, I repeated steps 5-7, cutting in with angle brush, blending the brush strokes out, painting corners and around outlets with a 4-inch roller, followed by filling in with the 9-inch roller.

Once the second coat was dry, it was time to hang the gallery wall. I began by arranging the frames on the floor to visualize the placement. I am so glad the frames came with cards to indicate exactly where to install the nails to hang the photos. To ensure everything was level I used my laser level to align the tops of the bottom row of frames and the bottom of the top row of frames.