How to Paint Over Dark Walls Without a Primer

March 4, 2025

Painting Over Dark Walls Without Primer? Yes, You Can!

So, you've found yourself staring at those deep, moody walls that once seemed like a great idea but now feel a bit too intense. Maybe the room feels smaller than you’d like, or perhaps you’re just craving a fresh, airy feel. Whatever the reason, you're ready for a change—but skipping the primer sounds like a dream, right? Good news: you can absolutely paint over dark walls without primer if you do it the right way.

Pick the Right Paint for the Job

Not all paints are created equal! You’ll want a high-quality, thick, full-coverage paint to do the heavy lifting. Look for a paint-and-primer-in-one that’s designed to cover dark colours in fewer coats. Haymes Paint offers excellent coverage and is an ideal choice for this kind of project.

Give Your Walls a Good Clean

Before you start, wipe down the walls. Dust, grease and grime will mess with how well the new paint sticks. A simple sugar soap solution does the trick. Give it a once-over with a damp cloth afterward to remove any residue, and let it dry completely.

Lightly Scuff the Surface

Dark walls can have a shinier finish that's harder for paint to grip. A quick pass with fine-grit sandpaper (something around 120-150 grit) will rough it up just enough to help your new colour adhere better. Don’t go overboard—it just needs a light touch. Wipe away the dust with a dry microfibre cloth.

Use a High-Quality Roller

A thick nap roller (10-12mm) works best for getting solid coverage over dark paint. It holds more paint and spreads it evenly, reducing the number of coats needed.

Apply Your First Coat Generously

Roll on the first coat using a “W” or “M” motion rather than straight up and down. This helps spread the paint more evenly and avoid streaks. Trust the process—at first, it might look patchy, but the second coat will work magic.

Let It Dry Properly Before the Second Coat

Don’t rush! Let the paint dry completely before applying the next layer. Check the paint tin for recommended drying times, but giving it a solid 4-6 hours usually works well.

Go In for Coat Number Two

Now's the time for the transformation. The second coat should bring full coverage, evening out any streaks or patches from the first. If you’ve chosen a quality paint, this should be enough. If any dark patches peek through, a third, light coat could be needed.

Finishing Touches

Touch up edges with a high-quality angled brush and make sure everything is smooth. Step back and admire your work—it’s amazing what a fresh colour can do to a space!

Got the DIY itch now? If you need expert advice or the perfect Haymes Paint for your project, drop into Strathalbyn H Hardware. We’ll help you pick the right tools, finishes, and colours to bring your vision to life.

Happy painting! 🎨