Painting for idiots

[bonfirebash]

I need help
I've painted a new build but that's pretty easy so I'm not totally incompetent with a paintbrush

I want to paint my windowsills as they have marks and the paint is flaking but I'm not sure how
Guessing I sand them? With..? And do I just sand the flaking bit or the whole thing? And what type of paint?
If anyone can tell me in small baby steps I would appreciate it! Determined to get them all done and not mess it up. House was built about 16 years ago so nothing weird/uneven to deal with

Also how to keep a cat off a windowsill while it dries but you're not miracle workers

If your house was only built 16 years ago, you won't have to worry about there being led in the paint which is the main concern when sanding back any paint.

What I would do is sand it all back (not just the flaked part) with 240/320 grit sand paper so it's all nice and even across the entire window sill.

Then, I would prime. It never hurts to put a decent primer on before you paint. This helps the paint adhere and stops the peeling you are describing so it will last years. I highly recommend a primer from the brand Zinsser. Yes, it's a tad expensive but the stuff is amazing and makes the paint job look really professional

Then, finish off with a decent interior paint of your choice. Usually a satin/eggshell finish is nice on a window sill... gloss is too shiny (imo) and matt can make it look a bit dull. But again, up to you!

The cat... well, I have to pointers for you there I'm afraid 😂

Thank you! No judging but this is what I'm working with
I have this primer stuff? The decorator left it behind... not sure if it's any good

I spotted this paint which looked good, happy to spend as I'm only painting 5 windowsills so not like I need masses of paint

https://www.screwfix.com/p/zinsser-self-priming-paint-satin-white-1ltr/13040

Buying from scratch, I do have a couple of brushes and a good angled one. My first painting project I picked the hallway which has 5 doors I had to cut in around

That primer will be absolutely fine! The main thing is to do a good job with your sanding and prep really well before you start. Do you have an electric sander? You can pick up a cheap mouse sander from Argos or B&Q for about £20, or do it by hand. Just make sure when it's all looking smooth, you wipe the dust before you add your first coat of primer.

The paint you've linked may be a bit overkill unless you have drafty windows or existing problems with mould/damp on your sills?

If you are doing white, something like this would be fine - https://www.screwfix.com/p/leyland-trade-fast-drying-satin-paint-brilliant-white-750ml/969HF?kpid=969HF&ds_rl=1243321&ds_rl=1241687&ds_rl=1245250&ds_rl=1245250&gclid=Cj0KCQjwnMWkBhDLARIsAHBOftrTqLIFHc6a69-j9ATKpNU2aWmzyxmqo7dyF-apDLXxACXzfwhEJZQaAnN2EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

I don't but happy to do it by hand. It's mostly just the edges so that'll be the tough part. I think my dad has but if I ask him I'll get an hour long monologue on paint types and am very much "I do it MYSELF"

One of the windowsills has some very mild mould on, that's the one that's got the worst flaking not taking a pic of that

Not sure if this is the same one but like the scrubbable moisture resistant non cracking words
Perma-White Interior Water-Based Satin 1 Litre https://amzn.eu/d/5M2xM44

Last stupid question! I'm going to wash all the windows and frames before I paint

Do I just paint around the sealant bit at the bottom? You can see it here, hopefully it'll be cleaner and look better after I've scrubbed it

I'd use a foam roller rather than a brush for wood paint, you get a much smoother finish, only use a small brush for corners/edges. A mould spray should help remove mould and clean the sealant. I swear by HG Mould Spray.

I'm back
One windowsill washed, sanded and primed
Doing it after work so it's going to take me a while!
This is my practice windowsill, paint to go on next

You probably found that DCat didn't go near the windowsill while the paint is wet, but a good trick is to find your most treasured item of clothing e.g a cashmere jumper, fold it neatly and place it on a chair or bed.

MerryCat loves looking out through the window too.

I am DONE! 6 windowsills sanded, primed and painted
Pretty pleased for my first attempt

Well done. Looks good. Does DCat approve? If so, we need photographic evidence

He's very unimpressed and wants to know why I am not stroking him and giving belly rubs

Oh my, what a handsome chap. Here's a virtual tickle behind the ear and a belly rub from me.

Thanks! 🐈

I only adopted him a few weeks ago but he will roll around on his back demanding belly rubs, and he plays fetch too little weirdo

MerryCat was a volleyball player in a previous life.
She's just had a couple of belly rubs and a treat.

Black cats are the best. My black cat thinks he's a dog, loves belly rubs and comes when called (I wish he'd play fetch too, but I can't have everything 🤣).

(I clicked to give painting advice but I prioritised the feline seeing as you've finished the job - looks good by the way! 🤣😇)