Saint Paul College Programs

Painting and Decorating

Program Documents

Program Brochure
Painting and Decorating Certificate Program Guide Sheet

Program Overview

Painters apply paint, varnish, and other finishes to wood, plastic, various metals, sheetrock, plastered surfaces, and masonry. Painters are familiar with the process of preparing surfaces to receive a protective covering of oil paint, latex paint, epoxy paint, or various wall coverings such as vinyl, paper, or fabric. Painters are knowledgeable of paint composition, surface preparation, paint selection and harmony. They are also knowledgeable of the effects climate and chemical exposure has on painted surfaces. Painters also install wall coverings such as vinyl, papers, and fabrics. The ability to lift ladders and paint containers in excess of 50 to 75 pounds is required by the painting trade. Employment of painters will grow as the level of new construction activity increases and as old structures require maintenance and repair.

Program Requirements:
• Painting and Decorating Certificate

What You'll Learn

• Fundamentals of painting and decorating and blueprint reading
• Use of solvents, stains, and application techniques
• Proper use of painting tools and equipment such as compressors, air regulators, spray guns, and respirators
• Safety practices
• Estimating the amount of paint and wall covering needed for a project
• Proper application techniques for painting, wall covering, and wood finishing

Career Settings

• Building contractors
• Retail paint stores
• Construction companies
• Industrial and residential construction

Potential Employers

• Sunrise Painting
• Kraus-Anderson
• J.B. Nelson
• Swanson-Youngdale
• Sherwin Williams
• Opus

Additional Benefits

• Learn from experienced instructors who teach in a "hands on" environment.
• Graduates will have employability skills to create resumes, portfolios, and do recordkeeping.
• Graduates may choose to apply for continued training in an apprenticeship program.