This month, our Painter in the Spotlight is Krystal Brookes, better known on Instagram as The Paint Chick. Based on the Sunshine Coast, QLD, Krystal runs her own painting business and has become Australia’s largest painting influencer, inspiring painters across the country.
Where are you based and what do you specialise in?
I’m based on the Sunshine Coast, QLD, and I specialise in residential painting. I love taking old, tired spaces and giving them a fresh, wow-factor transformation. I also focus on creating a great client experience, right down to little touches like coffee vouchers to make the process easier and more enjoyable for homeowners.
How did you get started in painting?
My journey wasn’t exactly planned. Life events meant I needed to provide for my two young children, so I picked up a brush and started working as a brush hand. Over the next five years, I worked under five different bosses, learning the trade. Eventually, I secured my RPLs (Recognition of Prior Learning) and started my own business. What began as a necessity quickly became a passion.
How did your Instagram account come about?
Four years ago, I started @_paintchick_ to showcase my work and educate homeowners and painters. My content is candid and consistent, and it really resonated with people. I use the platform to share the realities of painting – from best practices to tips – while also giving my honest takes on the industry.
What sets The Paint Chick apart from other painters?
Being a woman in the painting trade gives me a unique perspective. I’m always thinking about the client experience – how I’d want a tradesperson to operate in my home. I think that mindset, combined with my attention to detail, helps me stand out
Which Spray Gun Club product do you use, and why?
I run the SGC 4 sprayer. I picked it up when my old unit gave out, and I love it. It’s reliable, affordable, and does everything the big-name guns do. The after-sales support from Spray Gun Club is amazing too – Todd talked me through a tip-spitting issue I had, and it made a huge difference knowing I could call someone for advice.
Can you tell us about some standout projects?
One of my favourite jobs was a large project in Marcoola, finished earlier this year. I’m also currently working on a large-scale project in Maleny, and the SGC 4 is helping me power through that job.
What advice do you have for painters considering a spray gun?
First, ask yourself what you’re spraying and how much. For large-scale jobs and lots of cutting in, a sprayer saves time and money. For smaller one-off jobs, a brush and roller can be enough. And don’t let ego stop you from asking questions – even the simple ones. That’s how you learn and improve.
Where to Find Paint Chick
Want to follow Krystal’s journey or connect with her business? You can find her on Instagram at @_paintchick_. Painters also often reach out directly, while much of her local work comes through word of mouth.
👉 Stay tuned for next month’s Painter in the Spotlight. And if you’re a painter using Spray Gun Club equipment and want to share your story, get in touch – we’d love to feature you!