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Whether you’re giving a tired room a fresh coat of paint, restoring a treasured piece of furniture, or embarking on your very first home improvement project, the world of DIY can feel like it comes with its own secret language. From paints and polishes to brushes and rollers, knowing your sealant from your lacquer can make all the difference to the quality of your finish - and your confidence while working.
That’s why we’ve put together this handy glossary of essential DIY terms. In it, you’ll find clear, straightforward explanations for common questions, products and tools you’re likely to encounter, including everything from beeswax polish and ready mixed grout to paint stirrers, dust sheets, and specialist paints.
An accent wall is a single wall in a room that is painted or decorated differently from the others to create a focal point. It adds depth, interest, and personality without overwhelming the whole space.
The best wall for an accent wall is usually the one you naturally notice first when entering the room. Common choices include the wall behind a bed, fireplace, sofa, or dining table. It should highlight the room’s main feature rather than compete with it.
Accent wall colours depend on the mood you want to create. Bold or dark shades like navy, forest green, or deep red make a strong statement, while softer tones like pastels or warm neutrals add subtle contrast. Ideally, pick a colour that complements the other walls and ties in with furniture or décor.
Beeswax Polish is a natural furniture wax traditionally used to nourish, protect, and enhance wooden surfaces. It’s particularly valued for bringing out the wood’s natural grain and giving it a warm, satin sheen. Ideal for both antique and modern furniture, beeswax polish helps to protect against everyday wear.
To apply, simply ensure the surface is clean and dry, then work the polish in with a soft cloth using small circular motions. After allowing it to absorb, buff the surface to achieve a smooth finish.
While you can finish wood with just beeswax, it’s best suited to indoor pieces and lower-traffic items, as it offers a softer level of protection compared to varnishes or lacquers.
Boxing paint means mixing together multiple cans of the same paint colour in a larger bucket before you start painting. Even if cans are labelled the same colour, slight variations can happen between batches. By boxing (combining) the paint, you ensure the colour is perfectly consistent across the whole room or project.
A caulking gun is a handheld tool used to apply caulk or sealant. The gun holds a tube of caulk/sealant and helps you squeeze it out evenly in a controlled line.
To use a caulking gun, load the tube of caulk into the gun, cut the tip at an angle, and puncture the seal inside. Hold the gun at about a 45° angle to the gap, squeeze the trigger steadily, and move along the joint to create a smooth bead. Release the trigger to stop the flow, then smooth the bead with a finger or tool for a clean finish.
Chalk Paint is a decorative paint known for its soft, matte finish and excellent coverage, making it a favourite for upcycling furniture and achieving a vintage or shabby-chic look. It adheres to most surfaces without the need for priming or sanding, which makes it quick and convenient to use.
To apply, simply stir the paint well, then use a brush or roller to coat your chosen surface evenly.
Chalk paint typically dries in two hours, although drying times can vary depending on temperature and humidity.
Once dry, it’s best to seal the finish with a suitable wax or lacquer to protect the surface and enhance durability, especially on pieces that will see regular use.
Cutting in is a painting technique used to create neat, straight edges where walls meet ceilings, trim, or corners. Instead of taping, painters use a brush to carefully paint along these edges before filling in the larger areas with a roller.
To cut in, dip just the tip of your brush into paint, start slightly away from the edge, and move the brush smoothly toward the line. Use long, steady strokes to keep the edge sharp, and feather the paint out so it blends easily with roller-applied areas.
Hold it like a pencil, let the angled tip guide along the line, and work slowly with small amounts of paint for accuracy. Reload often and keep your strokes smooth for clean results.
DIY stands for “Do It Yourself”. It refers to making, repairing, or decorating things on your own instead of hiring a professional. People often use the term for home projects, crafts, and renovations where you take on the work yourself to save money, learn new skills, or add a personal touch.
Dust Sheets are large protective covers used to shield floors, furniture, and other surfaces from dust, dirt, and paint splatters during DIY and decorating projects.
They’re typically made from fabric, plastic, or recyclable materials, and while some dust sheets offer a degree of water resistance, most fabric varieties are not fully waterproof. For tasks involving liquids or heavy splashes, a plastic or specially coated dust sheet is the better choice.
After use, fabric dust sheets can usually be shaken out and machine washed, while recyclable or disposable options can be responsibly discarded according to local recycling guidelines.
Exterior Paint is specially formulated to withstand the elements, making it ideal for decorating and protecting outdoor surfaces such as doors, walls, and masonry.
When painting an exterior door, start by cleaning and sanding the surface, then apply a suitable primer before finishing with even coats of exterior paint.
For a house or large exterior walls, work methodically from the top down, using a roller for broad areas and a brush for edges and trims.
Always check the weather forecast before starting, as the ideal temperature for exterior painting is generally between 10°C and 25°C with dry conditions. This then ensures the paint adheres and cures properly.
Furniture Paint is designed to give new life to cabinets, tables, chairs, and other household pieces, offering a durable and attractive finish.
When painting kitchen furniture, start by cleaning the surfaces thoroughly to remove grease, then lightly sand or use a primer for better adhesion before applying thin, even coats of paint.
For general furniture projects, the process is similar - though certain paints, such as chalk-based varieties, can be applied without sanding if the surface is in good condition.
Once painted, sealing the finish with a clear wax or lacquer will help protect it from everyday wear and tear, ensuring the piece stays looking fresh for longer.
Grout is a paste-like material used to fill the gaps between tiles after they are set in place. It helps hold the tiles firmly, seals the joints to keep out moisture, and gives the tiled surface a neat, finished look. Grout is usually made from a mix of cement, water, and sometimes sand, and it can come in different colours to match or contrast with the tiles.
To grout tiles, spread the grout mixture over the tiled surface using a rubber float, pressing it into the spaces between tiles. Hold the float at an angle to scrape off excess, then wipe the tiles with a damp sponge to clean the surface while leaving grout in the joints.
Grout can be cleaned using warm water and a stiff brush, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar for deeper stains. For tougher grime, a grout cleaner or diluted bleach solution may be used, but test carefully to avoid damage.
Grout usually takes about 24–72 hours to fully dry, depending on the type of grout, humidity, and temperature. It’s best to avoid using or sealing the tiled area until it has completely cured.
To remove grout, use a grout saw, oscillating tool, or multi-tool with a grout removal blade to carefully scrape or cut it out from between tiles. Vacuum or brush away the dust, taking care not to chip the tiles.
Interior Paint is formulated to create a smooth, attractive, and durable finish on walls and ceilings inside the home.
The best choice for interior walls often depends on the look and durability you need - matt paints give a soft, modern finish that hides imperfections, while satin or silk paints offer a gentle sheen and are easier to wipe clean.
To paint interior walls, start by preparing the surface: fill any holes, sand rough patches, and apply a primer if needed. Then, use a roller for large areas and a brush for edges, working in even strokes.
You can paint over old paint as long as it’s clean, dry, and in good condition, though a light sanding or priming will help the new coat adhere better and last longer.
Lacquer is a clear or coloured finish that dries to form a hard, durable coating, often used to protect and enhance the appearance of wood, painted surfaces, and other materials.
It’s popular for giving furniture, cabinetry, and decorative pieces a smooth, glossy, or satin sheen while shielding them from scratches, moisture, and general wear.
You can apply lacquer over paint, provided the painted surface is fully dry and lightly sanded to help adhesion.
Most projects require two to three thin coats for a strong, even finish, with each coat left to dry - typically within 30 minutes to a couple of hours - before lightly sanding and applying the next.
Masking tape is a type of adhesive tape made of easy-to-tear paper with a light adhesive. It’s often used to protect areas from paint, mark surfaces, or hold things temporarily because it can be removed without leaving much residue.
Painter’s tape is a type of masking tape specifically designed for painting. It has a gentler adhesive that prevents paint from bleeding under the edges and comes off cleanly without damaging surfaces. Regular masking tape is cheaper but can leave residue or pull off paint if left too long.
Masking or painter’s tape should be removed while the paint is still slightly wet or just tacky to avoid peeling. If the paint dries fully, scoring the edge with a sharp blade before removing the tape helps prevent chipping.
Paint Brushes are essential tools for precision painting, edging, and working in smaller areas where rollers can’t reach.
To keep them in good condition, clean paintbrushes immediately after use - water-based paints can be rinsed out with warm soapy water, while solvent-based paints require the appropriate thinner.
If bristles become stiff, soaking them in warm soapy water or a brush restorer can help soften them.
To avoid visible brush marks, use smooth, even strokes, avoid overloading the brush with paint, and maintain a light touch.
When painting a wall with a brush, start at the edges and corners, “cutting in” neatly before switching to a roller for larger areas to achieve a consistent finish.
Paint Rollers are perfect for covering large surfaces quickly and evenly, making them ideal for walls and ceilings. To paint a wall, load the roller evenly with paint, then apply it in a “W” or “M” pattern, filling in the gaps with smooth, overlapping strokes.
For ceilings, use the same method but work in sections, starting near a corner and maintaining steady pressure to avoid drips.
To prevent patchy paint, ensure the roller is fully loaded, work while the paint is still wet, and maintain a consistent rolling technique.
Changing a paint roller is simple - slide the old cover off the frame and replace it with a fresh one. When finished, rinse the roller thoroughly in warm soapy water for water-based paints or the appropriate solvent for oil-based paints, then allow it to dry before storing.
Paint Roller Trays are designed to hold and distribute paint evenly onto your roller, making application smoother and more efficient. While you don’t strictly need a tray for paint rollers, using one helps control the amount of paint on the roller and reduces mess.
When filling a roller tray, pour in just enough paint to cover the lower section of the tray’s well - usually about a third full - so you can evenly load the roller without over-saturating it.
To clean a paint roller tray, pour away any leftover paint, then rinse it in warm soapy water for water-based paints or use the correct solvent for oil-based paints, ensuring all residue is removed.
Paint Stirrers are tools designed to mix paint thoroughly, ensuring the colour and consistency are even before application. The best option is a sturdy, flat stirrer - such as a bamboo paint stirrer - which allows you to reach the bottom of the tin and mix the contents effectively.
Stirring is generally better than shaking, as it blends the pigments and binders more evenly without introducing excess air bubbles that can affect the finish.
If you don’t stir paint before using it, the pigments and other components may remain separated, leading to uneven colour, patchy coverage, or a compromised finish once dry.
Painters Tape is a specially designed adhesive tape used to create clean, sharp paint lines and protect surfaces while decorating.
Unlike standard masking tape, painter’s tape is formulated to remove cleanly without leaving residue or damaging the surface beneath.
To use it, apply the tape along the edges you want to protect, pressing it down firmly to prevent paint bleed.
It’s best to remove painter’s tape while the paint is still slightly tacky - usually within an hour of painting - to avoid peeling away dried paint.
For a clean removal, pull the tape back on itself at a 45-degree angle, taking your time to prevent lifting the fresh finish.
Peel & Stick Paint Samples are adhesive-backed swatches designed to help you visualise how a paint colour will look in your space before committing to a full tin.
They are highly accurate, as they’re made using real paint, allowing you to see the exact shade and finish in different lighting conditions.
Peel and stick samples can be repositioned on different walls and areas, but their reusability may decrease if the adhesive picks up dust or debris. For the best results, apply them to a clean, dry wall and store them on their backing sheet if you plan to reuse them elsewhere.
Priming paint, or simply “primer,” is a base coat applied before the main paint. It prepares the surface by sealing it, covering stains, and helping the topcoat of paint stick better.
Priming creates a smooth, even foundation for paint. It improves adhesion, enhances colour coverage, prevents stains or dark colours from showing through, and helps the finish last longer without peeling or chipping.
Ready Mixed Grout is a convenient solution for filling the gaps between tiles without the need for mixing powders with water.
To use, simply apply the grout directly from its container with a grout float or spreader, pressing it firmly into the joints before smoothing the surface.
Pre-mixed grout works well for most indoor tiling projects, particularly for smaller areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, as it saves time and ensures a consistent texture.
Repurposing means taking an item and using it for a different function than it was originally intended for, without necessarily changing its appearance or improving its quality. It’s about finding a new use for something instead of throwing it away, eg. turning an old ladder into a towel rack in the bathroom.
Upcycling usually involves creatively improving or transforming an item into something of higher value or quality, often with a new look. Repurposing, on the other hand, focuses on using the item “as is” for a different purpose - for example, using a ladder as a bookshelf (repurposing) versus sanding and painting that ladder to make it into stylish furniture (upcycling).
Sanding smooths out a surface by removing rough spots, old finishes, or imperfections. It also helps paint, stain, or varnish stick better by creating a slightly rough texture that new coatings can grip onto.
Yes, you can paint furniture without sanding, but it depends on the type of surface and paint you use. Many people use alternatives like chalk paint, mineral paint, or applying a bonding primer, which allow paint to adhere without sanding. However, sanding is still the best way to ensure a durable, long-lasting finish.
Sealant is a flexible material used to fill gaps and create a waterproof barrier around fixtures such as baths, sinks, and windows.
You can apply new sealant over old, but for the best finish and adhesion it’s advisable to remove the old layer first.
The easiest way to remove silicone sealant is to cut away the bulk with a sharp knife or scraper, then use a specialist remover to soften and clear any residue.
When applying sealant with a gun, cut the nozzle at a 45-degree angle, apply steady pressure, and smooth the bead with a finishing tool or wet finger.
Around a bath, ensure the surface is clean and dry, then run a continuous bead along the joint, smoothing it for a neat, watertight seal.
A properly applied sealant can stop small leaks and prevent water damage by sealing joints effectively.
Sheen level refers to how shiny or reflective the finish of the paint looks once it dries. Paints range from flat or matte (no shine) to high-gloss (very shiny), with options like eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss in between.
A high sheen means the paint has a glossy, reflective finish. This makes surfaces look brighter and easier to clean, but it can also highlight imperfections on walls or wood. High sheen paints are often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and trim work where durability is important.
Upcycling is the process of taking old, unwanted, or discarded items and transforming them into something new and more valuable. Unlike simply reusing, upcycling often improves the original item’s quality, function, or appearance.
An example of upcycling would be repainting or re-staining an old chest of drawers to give it a fresh, modern look.
Recycling breaks down materials like plastic, glass, or paper so they can be remade into new products, often requiring industrial processing. Upcycling, on the other hand, creatively repurposes items in their current form, giving them a new life without breaking them down first.
Yes, you can varnish over paint as long as the painted surface is clean, dry, and fully cured. Varnish can protect the paint, add durability, and give a glossy, satin, or matte finish.
To varnish wood, first sand the surface lightly and remove dust. Apply the varnish with a brush or cloth in thin, even coats, always going with the grain. Let each coat dry fully, then sand lightly between coats for a smooth, professional finish.
Stain changes the colour of wood while still showing the grain, whereas varnish is a protective topcoat that adds shine and durability. Stain is best when you want to enhance the wood’s natural look, while varnish is better when protection and a polished finish are the main goals. Many projects actually use both: stain first, then varnish.
Lacquer and varnish are different. Lacquer dries very quickly, creates a hard, glossy finish, and is often sprayed on. Varnish takes longer to dry, is usually brushed on, and provides a thicker, more durable protective layer.
VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds. These are chemicals that easily evaporate into the air at room temperature and are commonly found in paints, varnishes, and cleaning products. In paint, VOCs help with drying and spreading, but they can release strong odours and contribute to indoor air pollution, which may cause health issues like headaches or breathing irritation. Many modern paints are labelled low-VOC or zero-VOC, meaning they are safer for indoor use and better for the environment.
With the right knowledge and tools, even the most ambitious home projects can now feel far more achievable. Whether you’re sealing a bath, painting a feature wall, or restoring a piece of furniture, understanding the terms and products you’re working with will help you get professional-looking results every time. Keep this glossary to hand for your next DIY project, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a space you love. Check out all the DIY products you might need at hemway.com.
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