Brushes are available in two categories:

Natural bristles: Brushes are made with animal hair. Hog hair is regarded as best. Use with oil-based or alkyd paint. Clean brushes with paint thinner

Synthetic brushes: Are made from nylon, polyester or a combination. They can be used with oil or latex paint. Clean brushes with mineral spirits (oil) or water (latex).

When purchasing a quality paintbrush:

• Inspect the tips of the bristles. A good natural-bristle brush is flagged, having split ends on the tips. The good synthetic ones have fuzzy-looking tips.

• Look to see if the bristles are trimmed to a tapered chisel-shaped end, not flat.

• Tap the ferrule (the aluminum or stainless steel band) and make sure that no bristles will fall out. The ferrule should be tightly wrapped and secured around the brush handle. Cheap brushes will lose their bristles. A rusty ferrule can also discolor paint if dipped into the can.

Rollers:

Rollers are the tools of choice when you have a large area to cover. Rollers will use more paint than a brush. Ceilings and interior/exterior walls can be covered with much less time and effort, but as with brushes, you must choose the correct type. Rollers may use more paint, but they also save you time.

Rollers are also available in two categories:

Natural: Oil-based paints work best with natural materials, such as mohair or lambswool.

Synthetic: These rollers are made of nylon, polyester, or a combination. Use with water-based paints.

For latex paint, use synthetic materials only. Natural material is too absorbent to use with latex paint. Either synthetic or natural material can be used with oil-based or alkyd paints. It is always a good idea to check the manufacturers' recommendations before purchasing.

Nap (or pile) is the length of the roller's painting surface. Lengths will vary from 1/16" to 1 1/2". Choose the correct nap for the paint job. If you're painting a smooth surface, choose a short napped roller. For a rough surface such as masonry, use a longer nap. Rollers with textured surfaces are also available for special fashion finishes.

Rollers come in widths from 4 to 18 inches. The metal frame for the roller cover comes in two types — birdcage and metal. The birdcage frame works better if you're using fast-drying paints, as it cleans up more easily than the solid-metal type. Most handles are made for attaching an extension.

Trim rollers come in varying shapes and sizes. Cone-shaped types work well in inside corners. Doughnut-style rollers paint mouldings and other fine work. Proper "M" technique of painting will give you a smooth finish.

When purchasing a quality roller:

• Look for beveled edges on the roller for a smooth finish.

• Check to make sure the roller has no visible seams.

• Give it a squeeze — it should rebound to its original shape.