Not a pro but one tip I got when painting was to use a 5 gallon bucket to hold one gallon of paint (or amount needed) with the metal grate hanging inside to get rid of excess off roller - more stable and seemed to work faster than using a tray. I hate to see natural wood covered with paint but everyone has their personel taste and I am sure it will look great. Those prep ideas sounded great and that is where all the work is. Good Luck!!!
