Paint Tool Accessories - Other

Essential Paint Tool Accessories in the UK: Where to Buy and How to Choose

Why the right paint tool accessories matter

Picking the right paint tool accessories is like choosing the right pair of shoes for a long walk — get it wrong and you'll regret every step. The right brushes, rollers, masking tape, and trays make painting faster, neater, and less messy. Whether you're touching up a skirting board or repainting an entire room, good accessories let you work smarter, not harder. In the UK market you’ve got a wide mix of national DIY chains and specialist outlets offering everything from budget basics to pro-grade kit.

Top UK stores to shop paint tool accessories

If you’re wondering where to buy, here are the big names that stock a full range of paint tool accessories. Each has its own strengths — some are best for value, others for specialist brands or convenience.

B&Q — wide range and seasonal deals

B&Q is a go-to for most DIYers. You’ll find a broad selection of brushes from 1 inch to 4 inch widths, 9 inch rollers, extension poles that reach up to 12 ft, and drop cloths sized in feet like 6 ft x 8 ft. B&Q often bundles kits for wall-and-ceiling jobs, which is handy if you don’t want to overthink choices.

Wickes — trade-friendly and durable options

Wickes caters well to both homeowners and trade pros. Look here for heavier-duty rollers, metal paint trays, and branded brushes like Purdy and Hamilton. Wickes tends to stock longer-lasting items that stand up to repeated scrubbing and solvent use.

Screwfix — tools for the professional

Screwfix is ideal if you want pro-level accessories and fast pickup. They carry extension poles with threaded ends that fit a variety of rollers, anti-splash roller cages, 1 gallon mixing buckets, and sturdy painter’s kits. If you plan lots of projects, Screwfix’s commercial-grade offerings are worth a browse.

Homebase — balanced selection for homeowners

Homebase blends affordability and convenience with a solid range of masking tapes, edging tools, mini rollers, and reusable paint pots. For small indoor jobs or if you’re a DIY beginner, Homebase has user-friendly kits and good value bundles.

Toolstation — affordable accessories and accessories-only packs

Toolstation often undercuts on price without skimping on essentials. Expect cheap but functional roller covers, budget masking tapes in various widths (like 1/2 inch and 1 inch), and drop sheets in standard sizes. Great for one-off jobs where you don’t need premium kit.

Wilko — low-cost basics and impulse buys

Wilko is useful for quick, low-cost supplies — think foam brushes, cheap paint trays, and small edging tools. If you only need a 2 inch brush for a quick touch-up, Wilko is often the fast, economical choice.

Hobbycraft and Amazon UK — specialty and convenience

For specialist brushes, artist-grade tools, or hard-to-find shapes, Hobbycraft is a good stop. Amazon UK is unbeatable for choice and next-day delivery on many items; you can compare brands like Wooster, Purdy, and Faithfull, and read user reviews before you buy.

Travis Perkins and Robert Dyas — trade and household accessories

Travis Perkins supplies trade-standard rollers, scaffold-accessories-friendly extension poles, and industrial masking solutions. Robert Dyas suits homeowners who want decent quality without the trade-store vibe — handy for smaller, frequent jobs around the house.

Brushes: types and what to buy

Brushes are the paint tool accessory you’ll use most. Think about the paint you’re using (water-based or oil-based), the finish you want, and the surface type. Synthetic bristles are great for water-based paints and stay springy; natural bristles perform better with oil-based paints. Sizes are commonly given in inches — a 2 inch sash brush for trims, a 3 inch brush for doors, and a 4 inch brush for larger trim and panels.

Angular vs. flat brushes

Angular brushes (angled sash) give control in tight corners and around window frames. Flat brushes are good for broad, flat panels. If you ask me, a 2 inch angled brush and a 3 inch flat brush cover most household needs.

Rollers and covers: nap lengths and surfaces

Rollers speed up large jobs dramatically. Pick the right nap length: short nap (1/4 inch) for smooth walls and ceilings, medium nap (3/8 inch to 1/2 inch) for lightly textured walls, and long nap (3/4 inch or 1 inch) for rough exterior surfaces. Standard roller widths are 4 inch for trim work, 7 inch for nearer edges, and 9 inch for surfaces like walls.

Anti-splash and microfiber covers

Anti-splash cages and microfiber roller covers reduce spatter and give a smoother finish. Microfiber is great for water-based paints — it holds paint well and gives even coverage. For large rooms, get a 9 inch roller with a 1/2 inch nap and an extension pole that extends to around 10 ft for ceilings without ladders.

Masking and protection: tape, sheets, and drop cloths

Masking tape isn’t just tape — it’s the difference between crisp lines and ragged edges. Use painter’s masking tape (1/2 inch to 2 inch widths) designed to remove cleanly. For floors, invest in drop cloths sized in feet; a 6 ft x 8 ft cotton drop cloth works for small rooms, but for multi-room projects you’ll want 10 ft x 12 ft or larger.

Specialist protection: anti-slip and heavy-duty sheets

If you’re painting stairs or a high-traffic hallway, anti-slip sheeting or heavy-duty canvas drops are worth the extra cost. They protect surfaces and can double as a temporary walkway, which is handy if you’re juggling furniture moves.

Trays, liners, and paint pots

Disposable tray liners save scrubbing, while metal trays last longer and are sturdier for heavy rollers. Paint pots and smaller pourers help when you’re edging or working with different colours — grab a 1 pint or 1 quart pot for trims so you’re not lugging a full gallon around. Many stores like Screwfix and B&Q sell multi-pack liners that make cleanup a breeze.

Extension poles and ladders: safety and reach

An extension pole is one of the best investments — it lets you paint ceilings and high walls without climbing ladders. Look for poles that extend to about 10 ft to 12 ft and have secure twist-locks. For jobs requiring a ladder, choose a small step ladder with a stable base rather than wobbling on a dining chair — safety first.

Compatibility and thread types

Check roller-head threads before you buy a pole; many poles use a universal thread but some pro-level rollers require a specific fit. Stores like Wickes and Screwfix usually list compatibility in the product details, which saves returns and frustration.

Sanding and prep tools: don't skip surface prep

Good painting starts before the brush hits the wall. Hand sanders, sanding blocks (measured in inches), and dust sheets keep surfaces smooth. A 9 inch sanding block or a 5 inch palm sander can make a huge difference. Don’t forget filler knives — 2 inch and 4 inch sizes are common — for repairing dents and holes before painting.

Specialist accessories for finishing touches

Edging tools, corner rollers, and paint edgers help achieve professional-looking lines without the tape. If you like a high-quality finish on door frames or skirting boards, consider a corner roller or a trim edger from brands stocked at B&Q or Homebase. They save time and give cleaner edges than freehand brushing.

Pro tips for buying in UK stores

Want to shop smart? Here are a few tips. First, buy accessories in sets for projects — a brush-roller-tray combo usually costs less than items bought separately. Second, inspect bristles and roller seams before you buy to avoid loose hairs or seams that shed. Third, consider brand reputation: Purdy and Wooster are pricier but last far longer, which can save money over time.

When to choose value vs. pro-grade

If the project is a one-off, budget accessories from Wilko or Toolstation will do the job. For regular decorating or if you’re a trade worker, invest in pro-grade items from Screwfix or Wickes. The higher upfront cost often pays off because the brushes and rollers keep their shape and paint-release qualities much longer.

Eco-conscious options and cleanup

Want to be kinder to the planet? Choose reusable trays, washable brushes, and solvent-free cleaners where possible. Several UK stores now list eco-friendly lines or recycled-material drop cloths. For cleanup, use a brush comb and warm water for water-based paints; natural-bristle brushes need careful cleaning if used with oil-based products, and you’ll need a suitable solvent — check product notes for safe options.

Budgeting for accessories — what to expect to pay

Prices vary, but you can expect basic kits (one roller, one brush, one tray) to start at bargain prices, while pro kits run higher. For example, a good 9 inch roller cover may cost from a few pounds to over 10 pounds depending on brand and nap. Brushes typically range from a few pounds for budget options to 20 pounds or more for professional quality. Considering how much time and frustration the right kit saves, spending a bit more often makes sense.

Shopping strategies

Check for bundle deals during bank holiday sales or seasonal promotions. Also consider buying roller covers in multi-packs if you’re tackling several rooms; a 3-pack of roller covers is cheaper per piece and keeps you rolling when one gets grubby.

Where to get specialist advice in-store

If you’re unsure, staff in Wickes, B&Q, and Screwfix often have practical experience and can point you to the right nap length or brush type. Ask about demo packs or return policies if you’re trying a new brand for the first time. Online product reviews can also be a great sanity check before you buy.

Final checklist before you start painting

Before you open the paint, make a quick checklist: right brush sizes in inches, correct roller nap, enough masking tape in the widths you need, drop cloths large enough in feet, extension pole length suitable for your ceiling, and a sturdy tray with a liner. With the checklist done, paint time becomes less chaotic and more satisfying — like following a recipe for a perfect cake.

Conclusion: Choosing the right paint tool accessories transforms a messy chore into a smooth, even, and fast project. From budget buys at Wilko to trade-grade kit at Screwfix and Wickes, the UK market offers options to suit every need and wallet. Think ahead, buy appropriate sizes in inches and feet, invest in a few pro items if you’ll use them often, and protect surfaces with quality masking and drop cloths. A little planning goes a long way — and the right tools make your paint job look like it was done by a pro.