Painter and Paperhanger professionals prepare and finish surfaces in residential, commercial, and industrial construction. They apply paint, varnish, enamel, and similar coatings, while also installing decorative wall coverings such as wallpaper and vinyl materials.
Wages
Hourly wages vary by specialty.
Painter (Brush & Roller): $39.57/hour
Painter (Blast & Spray): $42.57 – $44.57/hour
Paperhanger: $40.07/hour
Hourly Benefits: $26.50
Painters mix pigments and materials to achieve the correct color and consistency. In addition, they use brushes, rollers, and spray equipment to apply finishes to wood, metal, and masonry surfaces. Paperhangers, on the other hand, measure, cut, and install wall coverings, carefully aligning patterns and smoothing surfaces for a clean, professional appearance. Although these are distinct skills, many craftsmen develop expertise in both.
Painters and Paperhangers use a variety of tools and equipment to complete their work efficiently. For example, they use brushes, rollers, and spray guns for application. In addition, they rely on ladders, scaffolding, sanding tools, and surface preparation equipment. Paperhangers also use specialized tools for measuring, cutting, aligning, and smoothing wall coverings.
Working Conditions
Painters work both indoors and outdoors on surfaces ranging from interior walls and ceilings to exterior structures like foundations, water towers, and flagpoles. Odors from paints, thinners, or shellac are usually present. The work may be done individually or in crews and involves frequent standing, bending, kneeling, crawling, and climbing ladders or scaffolding. Safety depends on careful work practices and proper use of equipment.
Aptitude and Interest
Individuals interested in becoming a Painter and Paperhanger should enjoy hands-on work and working with their hands. They must be comfortable using numbers and measurements. In addition, good color vision is important for matching and applying finishes accurately.
Strong attention to detail, patience, and steady coordination are also key traits for success in this trade.
Training
To become a skilled Painter and Paperhanger, training is essential. Workers may gain experience through:
- On-the-job training
- Employer-sponsored programs
- Trade or vocational/technical schools
- Labor-management apprenticeship programs
- A combination of these methods
More formal training programs often provide broader and more comprehensive skill development.
Recommended High School Courses
Students interested in this field should consider art, mathematics, chemistry, general shop, interior decorating, and wood finishing.
Ready to start your career as a Painter or Paperhanger?
Learn about painter/paper hanger apprenticeships in CT.
**Wage and compensation information based on CT Department of Labor data reported as of July 1, 2025.
***Apprentices are paid on a graduated scale as their skill and experience increases.