To prevent bleeding, what should you do before painting?

To prevent bleeding, sealing the surface to be painted is essential. When you seal a surface, you create a barrier that helps prevent the underlying material from absorbing the paint, which can lead to bleeding or distortion of colors. This is especially important when painting porous materials or surfaces that may have different colors, textures, or existing finishes that could bleed through the new layer of paint.

Sealers prepare the surface by ensuring that the paint adheres properly and that the final appearance is uniform and true to the desired color. The process of sealing also enhances the durability of the paint job, as it protects against moisture intrusion and prevents underlying stains or colors from interfering with the new finish.

The other methods suggested do not effectively address the issue of bleeding. For example, applying a thick coat of color or increasing the paint thickness may actually exacerbate the problem by making it easier for underlying materials to push through. Using a lighter shade doesn't directly prevent bleeding rather it may only mask the problem without solving the root cause.