painting tips :: windows Surface prep is one part of the project you definitely should not throw out the window. For all of the details, read the Interior Surface Prep topic. Before washing the area, you will want to set all nail heads slightly below the surface and then fill the depressions with caulk or putty. If your window needs reglazing, now is the time. Painting Many professional painters use an angle sash brush to paint window frames. Angle sash brushes have a 15-degree diagonal edge, instead of being straight across. The pointed end allows you to reach into corners and paint more easily along lines. Try a Wooster Ultra/Pro® Extra-Firm or a Golden Glo® angle sash for all paints. If you’re using an alkyd or oil paint, stain, or varnish, the best choice would be a natural bristle brush like the Yachtsman® angle sash. Paint the window in the following order, from the top down, to help avoid smudges:      1. mullions,      2. vertical sash,      3. horizontal sash,      4. vertical frame,      5. horizontal frame,      6. sill, and the      7. apron To reduce brushmarks, try not to paint a window when the hot sun is shining down on it. A "Straight Line" Painting Technique Don’t try to paint right on an edge the first time—paint next to it instead. This technique is called "cutting-in." On your first stroke, lay down a thin bead of paint next to, but not on, the line you want to paint. Start with a stroke about 8-inches long. Immediately following, for your second stroke, "push" the bead of paint onto the line with the edge of your brush. As your skill increases, you can increase the length of your strokes. That’s how the professionals "cut" a line. Cleanup Tips Clean all paintbrushes immediately after use. Easier on you, easier on the brush. Refer to the detailed Cleanup instructions, or check your Wooster paintbrush package and the paint can label. Store brushes by hanging them to keep the bristles straight. After the paint has completely dried on the glass, a pop-up razor blade works quickly to eliminate the drips (just use caution). Then with a few squirts of glass cleaner, your window will provide a fresh, new view!