What does feathering refer to in painting?

Feathering refers to tapering the edges of old paint to bare metal, which is a critical step in achieving a smooth transition between new and old paint surfaces. This technique helps to minimize the visible lines where new paint meets old paint, ensuring a more aesthetically pleasing finish. By carefully sanding or grinding the edges of the existing paint, you create a gradual blend ("feather edge") that helps the new paint adhere better and results in a more uniform appearance. This method is especially important in repainting projects where the goal is to maintain a seamless look without abrupt changes in surface texture or color.

In contrast, applying multiple layers of paint involves building thickness and durability, which is not what feathering specifically refers to. Blending new paint with old paint relates more to the mixing of colors and coatings rather than the mechanical preparation of surfaces. Creating texture in the paint would involve techniques aimed at altering the finish or surface quality, which again is separate from feathering.