What Kind of Painting Work Is Done During Training?
painting work during Ausbildung in Germany
In Germany, vocational education, known as Ausbildung, is one of the most respected paths to building a successful career. Among the wide range of trades offered, Painter and Varnisher (Maler und Lackierer) training stands out as one of the most creative, versatile, and visually rewarding programs.
Painting and decorating professionals bring color, design, and protection to buildings and structures. But many aspiring trainees often ask:
“What kind of painting work is actually done during the training period?”
This article provides a detailed, professional insight into what a painting apprenticeship involves — including the types of painting work, training structure, skills learned, tools used, career prospects, and daily responsibilities.
By the end, you’ll have a full understanding of what to expect as a Painter and Varnisher trainee in Germany and how this Ausbildung builds the foundation for a long, creative, and secure career.
Overview of the Painter and Varnisher Ausbildung
Before diving into the specific types of painting work, it’s important to understand what this training program involves.
The Painter and Varnisher Ausbildung (Maler und Lackierer Ausbildung) is a three-year vocational training program that combines practical work experience in a painting or construction company with classroom learning at a vocational school (Berufsschule).
This dual approach ensures that trainees acquire both hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge.
Duration and Structure
- Total Duration: 3 years (can be reduced to 2.5 years for high-performing trainees)
- Training Type: Dual system — practical work + vocational school
- Qualification: Certified Painter and Varnisher (Maler und Lackierer Geselle)
During the training, you’ll spend part of the week at your employer’s workshop or construction site and the other part at a vocational school learning theory and design principles.
Core Objectives of the Training
The goal of the Painter Ausbildung is to train individuals who can independently perform decorative and protective painting work. This includes everything from surface preparation and coating application to design and renovation.
Trainees learn how to transform and protect surfaces, making them both aesthetically pleasing and durable.
What Kind of Painting Work Is Done During Training?
This is the heart of the program — the practical work that defines your skill set. The tasks evolve as your training progresses. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the painting work you’ll perform throughout your Ausbildung:
1. Surface Preparation Work
Before any paint or coating can be applied, the surface must be properly prepared. This is the foundation of all good painting work.
Tasks Include:
- Cleaning walls, ceilings, and facades
- Removing old paint, wallpaper, or coatings
- Filling holes, cracks, and uneven surfaces with plaster or filler
- Sanding and smoothing walls or metal parts
- Applying primer layers to ensure good adhesion
Surface preparation ensures that paint adheres properly and lasts longer. It’s also one of the first and most crucial steps that trainees master during their Ausbildung.
2. Interior Wall Painting
Interior painting is one of the most common and creative parts of the job. Trainees learn how to paint rooms and interior surfaces professionally.
Tasks Include:
- Selecting suitable colors, textures, and finishes
- Mixing paints according to desired shades
- Applying paint using rollers, brushes, or spray guns
- Creating clean edges and smooth finishes
- Working with different paint types such as latex, emulsion, or acrylic
This work demands precision, patience, and artistic sense, as the quality of interior painting directly affects the look and feel of a living or working space.
3. Exterior Painting and Facade Work
Exterior work is a major component of the Ausbildung. It involves painting building exteriors, walls, and facades to protect them from weather and aging.
Tasks Include:
- Cleaning and repairing exterior surfaces
- Applying weather-resistant coatings and paints
- Using scaffolding and safety harnesses for high surfaces
- Protecting facades from UV rays, moisture, and pollution
- Restoring old or damaged exteriors
This kind of painting work combines technical precision with physical endurance, as most exterior projects are large-scale and exposed to varying weather conditions.
4. Decorative and Creative Painting Techniques
Once trainees master the basics, they are introduced to decorative techniques that enhance aesthetics and give buildings a unique character.
Common Techniques Taught:
- Faux finishing (imitating marble or wood textures)
- Sponging, rag-rolling, and stippling effects
- Color gradients and patterns
- Stenciling and mural work
- Designing accent walls and feature areas
These tasks require a creative mindset and a sense of color harmony, allowing trainees to express their artistic skills while meeting client expectations.
5. Wallpapering and Wall Covering Work
Wallpapering is another key aspect of the Ausbildung. It combines both technical skill and decorative understanding.
Tasks Include:
- Measuring and cutting wallpaper accurately
- Applying adhesive evenly
- Aligning patterns and seams precisely
- Removing and replacing old wallpaper
- Using different types like vinyl, textile, and natural fiber wallpapers
Wallpapering demands attention to detail and patience, as small mistakes can disrupt the entire design pattern.
6. Wood and Metal Surface Painting
Painters also learn to treat and coat wooden and metallic surfaces, ensuring their protection and enhancing their appearance.
Tasks Include:
- Sanding and cleaning surfaces
- Applying primers, varnishes, and sealants
- Polishing and finishing wood furniture, doors, or windows
- Painting metallic gates, railings, and machinery
- Preventing rust and corrosion through specialized coatings
This branch of painting work is often performed in industrial or restoration projects, expanding the trainee’s skill set beyond traditional wall painting.
7. Protective and Industrial Coating
In addition to decorative work, trainees also perform protective coating tasks designed to preserve materials under tough environmental conditions.
Tasks Include:
- Applying anti-corrosion coatings on metal
- Fire-resistant or heat-protective coatings
- Sealing surfaces against moisture and chemicals
- Painting industrial machines, tanks, or pipelines
These specialized coatings are critical in manufacturing and construction, ensuring durability and compliance with safety standards.
8. Restoration and Renovation Work
Many painters work on restoring historical or aged buildings. This aspect of the Ausbildung teaches careful and delicate techniques.
Tasks Include:
- Removing old layers without damaging surfaces
- Repainting using historically accurate colors
- Repairing decorative moldings or frescoes
- Treating moisture-damaged or cracked areas
Restoration projects require a deep understanding of materials and traditional techniques — an area where experienced painters are highly valued.
9. Color Consulting and Design Planning
A key part of the Ausbildung involves learning how to advise clients on color choices and design concepts.
Painters are trained to analyze spaces, lighting, and architectural styles before recommending paint combinations.
Tasks Include:
- Understanding color psychology
- Creating sample color boards
- Matching paints to interior furniture and flooring
- Explaining finishes like matte, satin, and gloss
By the end of training, you’ll not only execute paint jobs but also plan and design them professionally.
10. Surface Finishing and Final Inspection
The last step of every project involves quality inspection and finishing touches.
Tasks Include:
- Checking for streaks or uneven layers
- Applying final varnishes or sealants
- Cleaning and organizing tools and materials
- Conducting client walkthroughs
- Ensuring safety and environmental standards are met
This stage teaches professionalism, responsibility, and a focus on quality — traits essential for career growth.
Theoretical Training: What You Learn in School
In addition to hands-on work, trainees attend vocational school for theoretical learning.
Subjects Covered:
- Color theory and combinations
- Material science (paints, varnishes, adhesives)
- Safety regulations and environmental protection
- Surface analysis and measurements
- Cost calculation and project planning
This academic component helps trainees understand the science behind the art — blending creativity with technical knowledge.
Tools and Equipment You’ll Learn to Use
Throughout the Ausbildung, trainees become proficient with a wide range of tools, including:
- Paint rollers and brushes
- Airless spray systems
- Scrapers, sanders, and filling knives
- Mixing machines
- Scaffolding and ladders
- Protective gear (masks, gloves, helmets)
Learning to maintain these tools is equally important, as efficiency and quality depend heavily on proper equipment care.
Skills You Develop During the Training
By the end of the program, a trainee painter gains a combination of technical, artistic, and interpersonal skills such as:
- Precision and attention to detail
- Creativity and color sense
- Customer communication
- Time management
- Teamwork and safety discipline
- Problem-solving and adaptability
These skills prepare you for a versatile career across industries.
Work Environment During Training
The training exposes you to various work environments:
- Residential buildings
- Commercial offices
- Industrial plants
- Public structures (schools, hospitals, etc.)
- Restoration sites
You may work indoors or outdoors, depending on the project. Flexibility is key — some days you’ll paint modern apartments, while others may involve repairing old stone walls or facades.
Career Opportunities After Training
After completing your Ausbildung, you become a qualified Painter and Varnisher (Geselle). This opens many career paths:
| Career Level | Description | Average Monthly Salary (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level Painter | Fresh graduate, full-time painter | 2,400 – 2,800 |
| Experienced Painter | With 3–5 years of experience | 3,000 – 3,800 |
| Master Painter (Malermeister) | Leads teams, trains apprentices | 4,500 – 5,500 |
| Self-Employed / Contractor | Runs own painting business | 5,000+ |
Some choose to specialize further in design, restoration, or industrial coatings, while others pursue Meister certification to take leadership roles.
Challenges You Might Face During the Ausbildung
Every profession has its difficulties. As a painter trainee, you might experience:
- Physical strain from standing or bending for long hours
- Exposure to chemicals (with proper protection, it’s safe)
- Precision pressure — small mistakes are visible
- Tight deadlines on construction projects
However, these challenges strengthen your discipline, efficiency, and problem-solving ability.
Advantages of Becoming a Painter and Varnisher
Despite challenges, this career offers numerous benefits:
- Creative Expression: Every project lets you use your artistic side.
- Job Stability: Construction and renovation are always in demand.
- Good Income: Steady progression from trainee to master painter.
- Visible Results: You see the direct outcome of your work daily.
- Opportunities Abroad: A recognized qualification across Europe.
Painting is both a craft and an art, making it one of the few professions that combine creativity with security.
Personal Qualities That Make a Great Painter
The Ausbildung also helps you develop personal traits essential for success:
- Aesthetic sense
- Patience and accuracy
- Manual dexterity
- Clean and organized work habits
- Customer-oriented attitude
Employers value painters who not only work efficiently but also bring a professional and artistic touch to every project.
Work-Life and Growth During Ausbildung
The training process itself is a transformative journey. You begin as a beginner learning basic brush techniques and finish as a confident, skilled painter capable of handling independent projects.
You will work with experienced masters, visit different sites, and see the transformation of dull spaces into vibrant ones — something that brings immense satisfaction.
As you progress through the years:
- Year 1: Basics of tools, materials, and preparation
- Year 2: Application of paints and coatings, decorative techniques
- Year 3: Independent projects, restoration, and leadership skills
By the end of your training, you are job-ready with real-world experience.
Conclusion
The Painter and Varnisher Ausbildung in Germany is far more than just learning how to apply paint. It is a comprehensive professional program that teaches creativity, precision, and craftsmanship.
Throughout the training, you’ll perform various painting works — from preparing surfaces and applying coatings to decorative designs, wallpapering, and restoration projects. Each task builds your technical and artistic ability, preparing you for a rewarding career that combines skill and imagination.
Whether you work on homes, public buildings, or large industrial projects, your craftsmanship will always be visible, appreciated, and in demand.
Choosing the Painter Ausbildung means choosing a colorful career full of creativity, stability, and opportunity.
What Kind of Painting Work Is Done During Training?
Introduction
Painting is one of the most essential and creative trades in the construction and renovation industry. Every building, whether residential, commercial, or industrial, requires painting and coating work to enhance its appearance and protect it from damage. In Germany, the painting profession is highly organized and professionalized through a vocational training program known as the Painter and Varnisher Ausbildung (Maler und Lackierer Ausbildung).
The training program is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience in all aspects of painting, coating, decoration, and restoration. But the main question most students ask before enrolling is: “What kind of painting work is actually done during the training period?”
To answer this question, this detailed guide will take you through the entire process of what happens during the painter training — the types of work involved, the tools used, the techniques taught, and the real-world experience you gain. By the end, you’ll understand not only what kind of painting work is done but also how this training prepares you for a long-term professional career.
Understanding the Painter and Varnisher Ausbildung
The Painter and Varnisher Ausbildung is a three-year dual training program in Germany. “Dual” means you will spend part of your time learning theoretical subjects at a vocational school and the rest working practically in a company. This combination ensures that by the end of the training, you know both the theory and practice of the painting trade.
The aim of the program is to train skilled professionals capable of performing both decorative and protective painting work on various surfaces such as walls, wood, and metal. You’ll also learn to plan, design, and execute painting projects independently while maintaining safety and quality standards.
During the three years of training, your tasks will grow in complexity. You’ll start with simple jobs like preparing surfaces and gradually move toward more advanced techniques like decorative design and restoration work.
The Stages of Painting Work During Training
Let’s explore in detail what kind of painting work is done during each stage of your Ausbildung.
1. Learning Surface Preparation
Every painting project begins with surface preparation. It might sound basic, but it’s the foundation of all painting work. A poorly prepared surface leads to cracks, peeling, and uneven finishes later on. That’s why in the early months of training, you’ll focus heavily on this area.
Main Tasks:
- Cleaning surfaces by removing dust, dirt, and grease
- Scraping off old paint, wallpaper, or plaster
- Filling cracks, holes, and uneven areas with fillers or putty
- Sanding surfaces smooth for better paint adhesion
- Applying primer or base coat before painting
You’ll learn to handle different materials like plaster, cement, wood, and metal. Each requires different preparation methods and products. For example, metal needs rust removal and anti-corrosive primer, while plaster walls need sealing and leveling.
By mastering preparation work, you’ll ensure your paint jobs look professional and last for years.
2. Interior Painting Work
Once you’ve learned the basics, you’ll move on to actual interior painting. This is one of the most common and artistic parts of the training. You’ll practice painting walls, ceilings, doors, and decorative elements inside homes, offices, and public buildings.
Tasks Include:
- Mixing paints to achieve desired shades
- Applying base coats and finishing layers
- Painting using brushes, rollers, or spray guns
- Creating sharp edges and smooth finishes
- Applying different textures such as matte, satin, or gloss
Interior painting also teaches you color harmony and how lighting affects paint appearance. You’ll learn which colors suit certain spaces — for example, soft tones for living areas and bright colors for children’s rooms.
As your training continues, you’ll be allowed to work independently on small interior projects under supervision, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
3. Exterior Painting and Facade Work
Exterior painting involves much more than just applying color. It focuses on protecting buildings from weather damage, sunlight, and pollution. During training, you’ll work on real construction sites and learn how to paint facades, walls, and external structures safely and effectively.
Key Tasks:
- Cleaning exterior walls using pressure washers
- Repairing cracks and damaged plaster
- Applying weatherproof and UV-resistant paints
- Painting on scaffolding or elevated platforms
- Using specialized coatings to prevent moisture damage
This part of training also teaches you safety procedures, including the correct use of ladders, scaffolds, harnesses, and protective clothing. Exterior painting requires physical strength, attention to detail, and patience.
4. Decorative and Creative Painting Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics of painting, you’ll enter the decorative phase, which allows creativity and design skills to shine. Decorative painting is about transforming ordinary walls into artistic expressions.
Decorative Techniques You’ll Learn:
- Sponging and Rag Rolling: Creating textured or cloudy effects using sponges and cloth.
- Marbling and Wood Graining: Imitating the look of marble or wood on walls or furniture.
- Stenciling: Applying artistic patterns using templates.
- Color Gradients: Blending two or more colors smoothly.
- Mural Painting: Large-scale artistic designs for walls.
Decorative work enhances your artistic ability and helps you develop a strong design sense. Many painters later specialize in this area because of its high demand in modern interior design.
5. Wallpapering and Wall Coverings
Wallpapering is another essential component of painter training. It combines both technical and artistic elements and requires precision and patience.
Work Includes:
- Measuring and cutting wallpaper rolls
- Applying adhesive smoothly and evenly
- Aligning patterns perfectly to avoid mismatched seams
- Handling specialty wallpapers such as vinyl or fabric types
- Removing old wallpaper safely without damaging the wall
Wallpapering teaches trainees how to manage intricate patterns and delicate materials. In modern interior design, wallpapers are widely used, making this skill highly valuable in the painting trade.
6. Painting and Coating of Wood Surfaces
Throughout your Ausbildung, you’ll also work with wooden surfaces such as doors, windows, furniture, and floors. You’ll learn both painting and varnishing techniques designed to enhance the look of wood and protect it from damage.
Key Work Areas:
- Sanding and cleaning wooden surfaces
- Applying primers and varnishes
- Using stains to highlight natural wood grain
- Refinishing old or damaged wooden furniture
- Applying protective coatings for outdoor wood structures
Wood coating work demands precision and patience. A professional painter must know how to achieve smooth finishes without brush marks while ensuring durability against moisture and insects.
7. Metal Painting and Industrial Coating
The training also covers painting and coating of metallic surfaces. Metal requires special treatment to prevent rust and corrosion. This part of training introduces you to industrial coating techniques.
Tasks Include:
- Cleaning and degreasing metal parts
- Removing rust using sandpaper or chemical solutions
- Applying anti-corrosion primers
- Coating with paint, lacquer, or powder finish
- Polishing and sealing for a glossy, durable look
You’ll work on gates, railings, machinery, and industrial components. Understanding surface chemistry and coating materials becomes important in this area of work.
8. Restoration and Renovation Work
Another important aspect of the training is restoration work, where you help bring old or damaged buildings back to life. This is often done on historic or culturally valuable structures.
Restoration Work Includes:
- Cleaning and preserving old paint layers
- Matching historical colors and patterns
- Repairing cracks, holes, and decayed surfaces
- Repainting decorative moldings or frescos
- Working carefully to preserve the building’s heritage
Restoration painting requires patience, delicacy, and respect for historical accuracy. You’ll often work with architects, conservators, and art experts to restore old charm with modern precision.
9. Color Consulting and Project Planning
As part of your Ausbildung, you’ll also learn color theory and design planning. A good painter doesn’t just apply paint — they help clients choose the right colors and finishes that enhance the overall look and mood of a space.
You’ll Learn To:
- Understand color psychology
- Match colors with furniture, lighting, and architecture
- Create color samples and mood boards
- Plan projects from start to finish
- Calculate material needs and time estimates
This part of the training turns painters into professional consultants, capable of turning client ideas into visually appealing results.
10. Quality Control and Finishing
Every project ends with a detailed finishing process. This ensures that the final result meets quality standards.
Final Tasks:
- Inspecting surfaces for uneven patches or streaks
- Applying the final protective coat or varnish
- Cleaning tools and workspace
- Documenting completed work
- Presenting the finished project to clients or supervisors
Finishing teaches you professionalism and responsibility. The goal is always to deliver flawless, high-quality work that satisfies the client.
Theoretical Learning During Training
While practical work is the main part of the Ausbildung, theoretical knowledge plays a vital supporting role. At the vocational school, you’ll learn subjects such as:
- Material science (types of paints, coatings, adhesives)
- Color theory and design principles
- Environmental protection and waste management
- Work safety and hygiene standards
- Cost calculation and project documentation
The theory part ensures you understand the scientific and technical side of painting work. You’ll also learn about sustainability — how to use eco-friendly materials and dispose of waste responsibly.
Tools and Equipment You’ll Master
Throughout the three years, you’ll become skilled in using a variety of tools:
- Brushes, rollers, and spray guns
- Paint mixers and buckets
- Sanding machines and scrapers
- Scaffolding and ladders
- Protective gear (gloves, masks, helmets)
Proper tool maintenance and handling are also part of your daily routine. Knowing how to use the right tool for each task increases efficiency and ensures top-quality work.
Skills You Develop During the Ausbildung
By the end of your training, you’ll have developed a wide range of valuable skills:
- Technical precision and hand coordination
- Aesthetic and creative sense
- Attention to detail
- Color harmony understanding
- Communication and teamwork
- Time management and responsibility
These skills are not only useful in painting but also help you succeed in any professional environment.
Work Environment During Training
Trainees work in diverse settings — indoors and outdoors, on construction sites, in workshops, or in private homes. Depending on your employer, you might work on new buildings, renovation projects, or industrial sites.
The work is physically active but rewarding. You’ll interact with clients, architects, and fellow tradespeople. Every day is different — one day you could be repainting a modern apartment, the next restoring an old church ceiling.
Career Opportunities After Training
Once you complete the Ausbildung, you officially become a qualified Painter and Varnisher (Geselle). From there, you can explore many career paths:
| Career Level | Description | Average Monthly Salary (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice (During Training) | Learning phase | 1,000 – 1,200 |
| Entry-Level Painter | Full-time employee | 2,400 – 2,800 |
| Experienced Painter | Skilled tradesman | 3,000 – 3,800 |
| Master Painter (Malermeister) | Supervisor/trainer | 4,500 – 5,500 |
| Self-Employed Contractor | Own business | 5,000+ |
With experience, painters can specialize in industrial coatings, restoration, or decorative design, or continue to Meister school for higher qualifications.
Challenges During Painter Training
The painter Ausbildung can be physically demanding. You’ll often stand for long hours, climb scaffolds, and work in different weather conditions. Some of the main challenges include:
- Maintaining accuracy under pressure
- Handling chemical odors or dust
- Meeting tight project deadlines
- Working at heights
- Managing detailed client expectations
However, these challenges help develop strong work ethics, discipline, and resilience — qualities that make a painter both skilled and reliable.
Why Choose a Career in Painting?
Becoming a professional painter offers numerous benefits:
- Creativity and Expression: Every project lets you use your imagination and artistic ability.
- Job Security: There’s a constant need for painters in renovation and construction.
- Good Income: As you gain experience, your earnings grow steadily.
- Visible Results: You can see your work transform spaces daily.
- Global Recognition: The German vocational certificate is respected worldwide.
Painting is not just a job — it’s a craft, an art, and a career that offers lifelong satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, the Painter and Varnisher Ausbildung offers an excellent opportunity to learn a diverse range of painting and decorative techniques while gaining real-world experience.
During training, you’ll work on everything from surface preparation, interior and exterior painting, and wallpapering to wood finishing, metal coating, restoration, and creative design. Each phase of the Ausbildung helps you develop new skills, confidence, and professionalism.
By the end of your training, you’ll not only know what kind of painting work is done but also how to perform it with precision, creativity, and pride. It’s a profession that colors the world — quite literally — while offering stable income, growth opportunities, and immense personal satisfaction.
For official details about vocational training regulations and wages, you can visit the Federal Employment Agency’s Ausbildung Portal or the Make It In Germany website.
