Purdy Decorating Kit Review
Purdy is a trusted brand among professional painters, and their decorating kits bundle essential tools for wall and trim work. This review examines the components, build quality, and value of Purdy's most popular kits to help you decide if they are worth the investment.
Quick answer
The Purdy Decorating Kit, particularly the 9-Piece Paint Tray Kit, is the best overall choice for DIYers seeking professional-grade results. It includes a high-quality 9-inch roller cover, a 2.5-inch angled sash brush, a sturdy metal tray, and essential accessories, offering excellent durability and finish quality.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Purdy 9-Piece Paint Tray Kit
Professional-grade brush and roller kit for smooth, even paint application.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purdy 9-Piece Paint Tray Kit | Overall Value | 9 pieces, metal tray | 4.6/5 | Medium |
| Purdy 5-Piece Starter Kit | Budget DIY | 5 pieces, plastic tray | 4.3/5 | Low |
| Purdy 12-Piece Contractor Kit | Professional Use | 12 pieces, multiple brushes | 4.7/5 | High |
| Purdy 7-Piece Trim Kit | Detail Work | 7 pieces, 1.5" brush | 4.5/5 | Medium |
| Purdy 3-Piece Touch-Up Kit | Small Repairs | 3 pieces, mini roller | 4.2/5 | Low |
Purdy 9-Piece Paint Tray Kit
Best OverallPros
- High-quality metal tray resists rust
- Brush holds paint well and cuts clean lines
- Roller cover provides smooth finish
Cons
- No paint can opener included
- Plastic handle on brush can feel light
The Purdy 9-Piece Paint Tray Kit is the most balanced option for DIYers who want professional results. It includes a 2.5-inch angled sash brush, a 9-inch roller cover with a 3/8-inch nap, a heavy-duty metal tray, a roller frame, and a tray liner. The brush features Purdy's trademarked filament blend for excellent paint pickup and release, reducing the need for repeated dipping.
Owner reviews consistently praise the kit for its durability and finish quality. The metal tray is a standout feature, as it does not warp or flex like plastic alternatives. The 3/8-inch nap roller cover is ideal for smooth walls and ceilings, providing a consistent texture. Some users note that the brush handle is plastic rather than wood, but this does not affect performance.
Purdy 5-Piece Starter Kit
Best BudgetPros
- Affordable entry point to Purdy quality
- Brush has good paint capacity
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- Plastic tray can warp with heavy use
- Fewer accessories than larger kits
The Purdy 5-Piece Starter Kit is designed for beginners or those on a budget who still want Purdy's reliable tools. It includes a 2-inch angled sash brush, a 9-inch roller cover with a 1/2-inch nap, a plastic tray, a roller frame, and a liner. The brush uses Purdy's standard nylon/polyester blend, which is durable and easy to clean.
Owner reviews highlight the brush as the standout component, offering smooth application and minimal shedding. The plastic tray is functional but less stable than metal, and some users report it flexing under heavy loads. This kit is best for small rooms or one-off projects where a metal tray is not essential.
Purdy 12-Piece Contractor Kit
Best ProfessionalPros
- Two brushes for walls and trim
- Includes mini roller for detail work
- Metal tray with liner system
Cons
- Higher price point
- Some accessories may be redundant
The Purdy 12-Piece Contractor Kit is the most comprehensive offering, targeting professionals and serious DIYers. It includes two angled sash brushes (2.5-inch and 1.5-inch), two roller covers (9-inch x 3/8-inch and 4-inch x 1/4-inch), a metal tray, roller frames, liners, and a paint can opener. The dual brush setup allows for efficient wall painting and precise trim work.
Owner feedback emphasizes the kit's completeness and the high quality of the brushes, which hold their shape after multiple cleanings. The mini roller is useful for cutting in around edges and small areas. Some users find the kit contains more items than needed for basic projects, but for large renovations, it saves trips to the store.
Purdy 7-Piece Trim Kit
Best for Detail WorkPros
- Perfect for baseboards and window frames
- Compact and portable
- Brush provides precise control
Cons
- Not suitable for large wall areas
- Plastic tray can tip over
The Purdy 7-Piece Trim Kit is specifically designed for painting trim, doors, and other detailed surfaces. It includes a 1.5-inch angled sash brush, a 4-inch mini roller cover with a 1/4-inch nap, a plastic mini tray, a roller frame, liners, and a stir stick. The smaller brush allows for tight control along edges and corners.
Owner reviews note that the brush is excellent for cutting in and leaves a clean line without brush marks. The mini roller is useful for applying paint to narrow surfaces like window sills. Some users wish the tray were metal for better stability, but the plastic version is lightweight and easy to hold.
Purdy 3-Piece Touch-Up Kit
Best for Small RepairsPros
- Very affordable
- Ideal for touch-ups and small patches
- Compact storage
Cons
- Limited to small jobs
- No roller frame included
The Purdy 3-Piece Touch-Up Kit is a minimalist set for quick fixes and small touch-up jobs. It includes a 1-inch angled sash brush, a 4-inch mini roller cover, and a plastic mini tray. The brush is small enough for precise application around light switches and door hinges, while the roller is suitable for patching small wall areas.
Owner reviews appreciate the convenience and low cost, though some note the lack of a roller frame means you must buy one separately. The brush quality is consistent with other Purdy tools, offering good paint retention and easy cleaning. This kit is best kept in a drawer for emergencies rather than for major projects.
What to Check Before Buying a Purdy Decorating Kit
Consider the scope of your project before choosing a kit. For painting an entire room, a 9-piece kit with a metal tray and a 9-inch roller is essential. For trim work only, a trim kit with a smaller brush and mini roller is more appropriate. Check that the brush size matches your needs: 2.5-inch for walls, 1.5-inch for trim. Also, verify that the roller nap is suitable for your wall texture. A 3/8-inch nap works for smooth walls, while a 1/2-inch nap is better for slightly textured surfaces.
Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is using the wrong roller nap for the surface. A thick nap on smooth walls can create an orange peel texture. Another error is neglecting to clean brushes and rollers immediately after use. Purdy tools are durable, but dried paint can ruin them. Finally, do not assume a larger kit is always better. Extra accessories you do not need add cost without benefit. Match the kit to the job.
Who Is the Purdy Decorating Kit For?
Purdy decorating kits are suitable for DIY homeowners and professional painters alike. The brand is known for high-quality brushes that hold their shape and provide smooth finishes. Beginners will appreciate the all-in-one nature of the kits, which include everything needed to start painting. Professionals may prefer the contractor kit for its comprehensive tool set.
Performance and Build Quality
Purdy brushes are manufactured with a proprietary blend of nylon and polyester filaments, which offers excellent paint pickup and release. The brushes resist fraying and maintain their shape after repeated use. Roller covers are made with a dense fabric that minimizes shedding and produces a consistent finish. The metal tray in larger kits is robust and designed to last through many projects. Plastic trays are lighter but less durable.
Alternatives to Purdy Kits
Wagner offers painting tools and sprayers for those who prefer power equipment. Wooster is another reputable brush brand with similar quality. For budget-conscious buyers, own-brand kits from major retailers can be cheaper, though they may lack the durability of Purdy. Consider your frequency of use: for one-time projects, a cheaper kit may suffice.
FAQs
Are Purdy brushes worth the higher price?
Yes, Purdy brushes offer superior paint pickup and release, reducing application time and improving finish quality. They also last longer than cheaper alternatives when properly maintained.
What is the best Purdy kit for a beginner?
The Purdy 9-Piece Paint Tray Kit is the best for beginners as it includes all essential tools in one package. Its metal tray and quality brush provide a professional start.
Can I use Purdy roller covers with other frames?
Yes, Purdy roller covers are standard size and fit most 9-inch roller frames. They are compatible with frames from other brands.
How do I clean Purdy brushes?
Clean brushes with warm soapy water for latex paint or mineral spirits for oil-based paint. Rinse thoroughly and reshape the bristles before drying.
Do Purdy kits include paint trays?
Most kits include a tray, either plastic or metal. The 9-piece kit includes a heavy-duty metal tray, while smaller kits use plastic.
What is the difference between Purdy and Wooster brushes?
Both are high-quality brands. Purdy brushes are known for their proprietary filament blend, while Wooster offers a similar range. Personal preference often dictates choice.
Are Purdy brushes suitable for oil-based paint?
Yes, Purdy brushes work well with both latex and oil-based paints. Clean them with the appropriate solvent after use.
How long do Purdy brushes last?
With proper care, Purdy brushes can last for several years. Regular cleaning and storage in a brush keeper extend their lifespan.
Do Purdy kits come with a warranty?
Purdy offers a satisfaction guarantee on their brushes and rollers. Check the specific kit packaging for warranty details.
Can I buy Purdy kit components separately?
Yes, Purdy sells brushes, roller covers, and trays individually. This allows you to replace worn components without buying a new kit.
Our verdict
The Purdy 9-Piece Paint Tray Kit is the best overall choice for most DIYers, offering a metal tray and quality brush at a reasonable price. For professionals, the 12-Piece Contractor Kit provides the most comprehensive tool set. Budget-conscious users should consider the 5-Piece Starter Kit for smaller projects.