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Painters and Paperhangers: Job Description, Education, Skills and Duties, Earnings and Outlook

Submitted by: paula

Job Overview Painter had been considered to be an occupation in the 18th century. During that time, people made their own paints for their homes. Transport industry was not sophisticated at that time and it was unusual to order paints from other areas. They used milk, soil and lampblack to make paint. Manufacturers started manufacturing paint in large amounts in 1867. Europeans started covering walls around 16th century. This started an occupation in paperhanging and the first decorative paper was invented by the Chinese. People started using velvet hangings and tapestries for the walls in their room.

Education, Knowledge and Trainings Required

High school education is not at all important int his job, but skills can be enhanced by different classes in high school. Art, Chemistry and Shop classes will help appicants to preparing to become  painters and paperhangers . An applicant has the option to work with experienced paperhangers and painters for two to three years. This is considered an on-the-job training. Apprenticeship program is also available which includes classroom instruction and work experience.  During the program, they will learn about the application methods, use of equipment and tools, preparation of surfaces, reading of blueprints, coordination of colors and  characteristics of wood.

Skills and Abilities

Painters and paperhangers need to be skilled in using different painting and paperhanging tools like brushes, roller or spray guns. It is also important that they are good with colors. Manual dexterity is also needed. They need to be in good physical condition and should not be allergic to paints or other chemicals that will be used. Painters should be used in working in high places whether it is indoor or outdoor.

Duties

For painters, their duty is to make sure that the paint is applied uniformly, rapidly and thoroughly to any types of walls. Before they start painting the need to make sure that the surface is smooth and that the old loose paint is removed. They should know how to mix paints, oil, pigment, and drying and thinning substances.

For paperhangers, they need to make sure that the rough spots are smoothed and cracks and noles should be filled. Grease, old paint and varnish should be taken off from the surface too. It is important that they measure the area and cut the decorative paper to fit the surface.

Earnings and Job Outlook

Painters and paperhangers earn more than construction workers. They usually earn on an hourly basis. Their annual income is not high when compared to construction workers because of weather conditions that affect their working condition. Paperhangers earn more than painters.  For paperhangers, they can earn average hourly salary of $16.08 while painters earn $14.81. There is a continuous demand for paperhanger and painters. Because paperhanger work indoors, they have limited opportunities unlike painters who can work on industrial structures or buildings.

Paula Hiz is a researcher and a human resource specialist who helps newly graduates, job applicants and post graduate professionals be aware of their job opportunities and available trainings for skills and practice upgrading.

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Word Count: 503 Date: Sat, 6 Nov 2010 Time: 2:20 PM


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