3-5mm NAP. A thinner nap provides a smooth quality finish using water based or oil based
For smooth surfaces such as new drywall, choose a shorter nap (3/16” or 1/4″) to evenly apply the paint and maintain a smooth finish. Because a shorter nap picks up less paint, it is common for some painters to use a longer nap for increased production.
The two best paint rollers for a smooth finish is a High Density Foam Roller with a Rounded Edge and a Lint Free Low Nap Roller, but I will say that even though both of these are good rollers one wins the prize for the smoothest finish.
Step #3: Understand Nap Thickness
⅜” - ½” (9.5-12.7mm)—For smooth and semi-smooth surfaces like drywall, painted or unpainted walls and ceilings. ¾” - 1” (19.05-25.4mm)—For semi-rough surfaces like wood, stucco or a textured ceiling. 1 ¼” - 1 ½” (31.75-38.1mm)—For rough surfaces like concrete block, brick, or masonry.
Regarding most low sheen acrylic interior paints, usually a 3/8 nap roller is recommended. Often, a shorter nap is recommended with more shiny paints. Would using a 1/4 inch nap quality roller with a low luster paint result in a smoother finish? I would assume one would have to work very fast to keep a wet edge, etc...
Keep naps short.
A 20- to 30-minute nap is ideal. Try not to snooze more than 30 minutes on a regular basis. The longer you nap, the more likely you are to feel groggy afterward.
A nap size of 3/8 to 1/2 inch is preferred for most ceilings and walls, acoustic tile, paneling, smooth concrete, textured drywall, and wood.
Matte paint requires fewer coats than higher gloss paints and is easier to touch up. It's also the least durable paint finish. Perfect for new construction, drywall, ceilings and low-traffic areas like adult bedrooms and dining rooms.
Use fine grit sandpaper, between 150 and 180 grit, to achieve the desired results. Some drywall sanders include a vacuum attachment to collect excess dust and debris. Follow the manufacturer instructions supplied with your unit for directions on assembly.
SAND IN BETWEEN COATS
Sanding in between paint coats will smooth out any imperfections like dirt or loose fluff that may have stuck to the paint as it dried. It will also even out any brushstrokes/roller marks. But not with any sandpaper...you want a superfine sanding pad.
Synthetic nap lengths between 5 to 10 millimetres synthetic are suitable for higher sheen acrylic paints such as gloss or semi-gloss. A nap length between 12 and 15 millimetres is generally used for walls and ceilings where a matte or low sheen finish is being used.
White China—These natural bristle brushes are best used with oil-based paints, especially enamels and varnishes. Ideal for woodwork, enamels, or marine applications, White China bristles virtually eliminate brush marks.
Walls, Wood, and Metal - Small 1/4″ roller covers or foam rollers will produce the smoothest finish. Light to Medium Textured Surfaces - Microfiber rollers are best. Smooth Surfaces - Use a white woven short nap roller for an ultra fine finish.
If your walls are smooth and looking for a level 5 finish (very smooth), we'd recommend a Microfibre 5mm as it will provide you with a satisfying spray-like finish to match the surface. Rooms that often have walls with smoother surfaces include bathrooms and toilets with enamel paints.
For interior projects, foam or microfiber rollers with a 3/8-inch nap are usually used for smooth surfaces like walls and ceilings. For exterior projects, longer naps, such as 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch are best suited for rough surfaces like stucco or brick.
The least glossy texture is flat, which is often referred to as matte. The greatest option for covering up flaws like bumps or tiny fractures on walls is a material that doesn't reflect light. Additionally, it applies more smoothly over uneven surfaces, making it a fantastic choice for textured walls.
Flat paint, with its velvety, matte appearance, is the best choice for hiding any wall imperfections due to its lack of shine and reflective properties.
Color Considerations
We all know that lighter colors emphasize imperfections while darker colors hide them. This also has to do with light and reflection. Lighter colors reflect more light while darker shades absorb it.
3-5mm NAP. A thinner nap provides a smooth quality finish using water based or oil based gloss or semi-gloss paints. They are designed to hold a small amount of paint, which also helps in gaining that ultra smooth finish.
Apply a thin layer of compound: Apply compound to the wall using a taping knife or skimming blade, working in smooth, even strokes. Lightly Sand: Allow the compound to dry, and then lightly sand the surface to remove any imperfections. Repeat the process, if necessary, to achieve the desired level of smoothness.
Elevate your legs so they're above your heart
Before you fall asleep, prop your legs up on a chair, the edge of a couch, or even against a wall — the key is to make sure they're above your heart level. Why? This helps the blood flow back to your heart and brain more easily and helps you relax faster.
A power nap that lasts 20 to 30 minutes is usually ideal. It's long enough to give you all the benefits of sleep without leaving you feeling groggy when you wake up.