Painting Merit Badge
Painting
Merit Badge
Scouting America Merit Badge Hub
Scouting America
Merit Badge Hub
Requirement Updates 2026
This Merit Badge’s Requirements have recently been updated in 2025 Scouting America Requirements (33216). Please read more about “Requirements” on the Merit Badge Hub homepage. The previous version of the Merit Badge requirements can be found in Scoutbook.
Painting Merit Badge Overview
This merit badge provides an opportunity for Scouts to learn more about painting, including both the artistic and practical aspects.
Painting Merit Badge Requirements
The previous version of the Merit Badge requirements can be found in Scoutbook
The requirements will be fed dynamically using the scout book integration
NOTE: The official merit badge pamphlets are now free and downloadable HERE or can be purchased at the Scout Shop.
1.
Explain the proper safety procedures to follow when preparing surfaces and applying coatings.
Resource: Interior Painting Safety (video)
Resource: Interior Painting Safety (video)
2.
Do the following:
- (a)
Explain three ways that coatings can improve a surface.
Resource: Epoxy Resin Coatings (video) - (b)
Explain the differences between oil-based paints, acrylic-based paints, and water-based paints.
Resources: Paints - Oil, Water, Enamel, Acrylic (video)
Water vs Oil Based Paints (video) - (c)
Explain where you would apply enamel paint, flat paint, wood stain, and varnish, and explain the importance of sheen.
Resource: Paint Sheen Differences Explained (video) - (d) Tell why each is best for these uses.
3.
Prepare and paint two different surfaces using patching materials or caulking and the proper primers and topcoats. Suggested projects include an interior or exterior wall, a door, a piece of furniture, a concrete wall or floor, a porch rail, or a fence. Your counselor must preapprove the projects.
Resource: How to Paint a Room (video)
Resource: How to Paint a Room (video)
4.
Prepare and paint an item using harmonizing colors that you have selected using the color wheel in the Painting merit badge pamphlet.
Resources: Choosing a Color Palette for Your Home (video)
Color Wheel from Painting Merit Badge Pamphlet (PDF)
Resources: Choosing a Color Palette for Your Home (video)
Color Wheel from Painting Merit Badge Pamphlet (PDF)
5.
Show the right way to use, clean, maintain, and store painting equipment.
Resources: Good Paint Hygiene (video)
How to Clean and Store Paint Brushes (video)
Resources: Good Paint Hygiene (video)
How to Clean and Store Paint Brushes (video)
6.
Explain the importance of ladder safety, personal hygiene, and the use of personal protective equipment when painting.
Resources: Ladder Safety (video)
Personal Protective Equipment for Painting (PPE) (video)
Resources: Ladder Safety (video)
Personal Protective Equipment for Painting (PPE) (video)
7.
Explain some of the environmental and health issues concerning removing paint, applying paint, and discarding old paint.
Resources: How to Dispose of Old Paint (video)
Paint Removers (video)
Resources: How to Dispose of Old Paint (video)
Paint Removers (video)
8.
Do ONE of the following:
- (a)
Explore careers related to this merit badge. Research one career to learn about the training and education needed, costs, job prospects, salary, job duties, and career advancement. Your research methods may include—with your parent or guardian's permission—an internet or library search, an interview with a professional in the field, or a visit to a location where people in this career work. Discuss with your counselor both your findings and what about this profession might make it an interesting career.
Resources: Painters Career Overview (video)
Scenic Painter (video) - (b)
Explore how you could use knowledge and skills from this merit badge to pursue a hobby or healthy lifestyle. Research any training needed, expenses, and organizations that promote or support it. Discuss with your counselor what short-term and long-term goals you might have if you pursued this.
Resources: How to Paint Murals Like a Pro (video)
Easy Wall Painting DIY I Balcony Makeover I Yoga Wall Art (video)
Mood-Boosting Paint Colors for Every Room in Your House (website)
Get the Painting Merit Badge Pamphlet
Merit Badge Pamphlets are now free and publicly available. Note: Always check www.scouting.org/skills/merit-badges/all/ for the latest requirements.
Shop Painting Merit Badge Products
As the exclusive retailer of Scouting America, 35% of every Scout Shop purchase supports the future of Scouting.
