Leftover Paint? Mix And Match Like A Pro

If you have a lot of leftover paint, you may be wondering if it's possible to mix them together. The short answer is yes, but there are some important things to keep in mind. Firstly, not all paints are compatible, so it's essential to understand the different types of paint and which can be safely blended. For example, issues may arise when mixing water-based interior acrylic latex with water-based interior vinyl latex. Before mixing, check for mold or bacterial growth and stir the paint thoroughly. If it's lumpy and doesn't improve in texture, it's likely too old to use. When mixing, add your colors slowly to avoid ending up with an unusable color.

Understand paint types and compatibility

Understanding the types of paint and their compatibility is crucial before mixing leftover cans of paint. Paints have different chemical compositions, and their compatibility depends on various factors, including raw material variability, environment of use, chemical reactions, application, and storage stability.

Firstly, it is essential to identify the type of paint you are working with. Common types include acrylic, enamel, lacquer, and vinyl latex. Each type has unique properties and behaviours when mixed with other paints. For instance, lacquer paint should only be used as a top coat over a lacquer base coat or primer, as it can react with acrylic or enamel paints, causing undesirable results.

Secondly, when mixing paints, it is generally recommended to pair like with like. This means combining paints with similar bases, such as water-based or oil-based paints. For example, you may mix interior paints with other interior paints and exterior paints with other exterior paints. This reduces the risk of undesirable reactions and ensures better compatibility.

Additionally, consider the age of the paint. Paints of similar ages tend to have better compatibility. Older paints may have formed paint skin or experienced separation over time, so it is crucial to stir them well before mixing. Using paints of similar ages can also help maintain consistency in colour, sheen, and texture, especially when working on larger projects requiring multiple coats or touch-ups.

Finally, always do a test spray or mix on a small scale before committing to a larger batch. This allows you to observe how the paints react together and ensures that you achieve the desired colour and finish. It is a safe way to experiment and prevents potential issues on your final project.

Prepare and mix paint

Before you start mixing leftover paints, it's important to understand the different types of paint and which can be safely blended. Not all paints are compatible, and mixing the wrong types can lead to undesirable results. Latex paint, for instance, is the most common for interior walls, while oil-based paints are often used for trim and exterior surfaces. It is also important to consider the age of the paint, as paints of similar ages will have maximum compatibility.

Once you've determined that your paints can be mixed, start by checking if the paint has gone bad. Open the can and inspect for brown or white spots, which indicate mould or bacterial growth. Stir the paint thoroughly; if it's lumpy and doesn't improve in texture, it's likely too old to use. Additionally, check for a strong, unpleasant odour, which is a sign that the paint has spoiled. If the paint has separated and doesn't easily mix back together, you can use a paint strainer or cheesecloth to filter out any debris and dry chunks.

When you're ready to mix, start by adding small amounts of paint together slowly. This way, you can fine-tune your colour without wasting paint. Use small containers or a paint palette to experiment with different combinations. Remember that primary colours (red, blue, and yellow) can be mixed to create secondary colours, and complementary colours (those opposite each other on the colour wheel) can be blended to achieve neutral tones. If you're looking to lighten a colour, add white or cream; if you want to darken it, add black or a darker shade.

If you're mixing larger batches, ensure you have the right-sized containers and mixers. Always use a vessel with a lid that can be closed airtight to preserve your custom-blended paint. Calculate the amount of paint you'll need by measuring the surface area you plan to paint and checking the coverage rate on your paint cans. Mix slightly more than you think you'll need to account for touch-ups. Label the container with the colour name, date mixed, and the ratios used, and apply a small swatch of the paint to the lid for easy identification.

Achieving desired colours

Mixing leftover paint is a fun and rewarding way to create custom colours, save money, and reduce waste. To achieve your desired colour, there are several steps to follow.

Firstly, ensure you understand the different types of paint and which can be safely blended. Not all paints are compatible, and combining the wrong types can lead to undesirable results. For instance, water-based paints should be mixed with water-based paints, and oil-based paints with oil-based paints. Similarly, interior paints should be mixed with interior paints, and exterior paints with exterior paints.

Once you have selected the paints you want to mix, start with small amounts and equal parts of each colour. Mix thoroughly and assess the resulting colour. If adjustments are needed, add more of one colour or introduce a new colour to achieve your desired hue. Keep track of the ratios used so that you can replicate the colour on a larger scale.

If your final colour is not what you expected, you can make adjustments by adding small amounts of white or black paint to lighten or darken the blend. You can also introduce a complementary colour to neutralise an overly vibrant hue. It is always easier to adjust the colour by adding small amounts of paint rather than trying to correct an oversaturated blend.

When mixing larger batches, ensure you have the right-sized containers and mixers. Mix enough paint for your entire project to maintain colour consistency. Measure the surface area you plan to paint, check the coverage rate on your paint cans, and calculate the total amount of paint needed, adding extra for touch-ups. Always mix slightly more than you think you'll need to avoid running short.

By following these steps and experimenting with different colours and ratios, you can create unique and desirable colours from your leftover paint.

Storing mixed paint

Containers

Use airtight containers with tight-fitting lids to store your mixed paint. Silicone or thick soft plastic containers are ideal as they are more durable, easier to clean, and provide a better seal. You can also use glass jars with screw-top lids or plastic bead storage containers. Avoid hard or thin plastic containers, as they may not be as airtight and may be more prone to damage.

Temperature and Lighting

Store your mixed paint in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for storing paint is between 60-75° Fahrenheit (15-24° Celsius). If you plan to store your paint for an extended period, consider using a portable thermostat to monitor the temperature and humidity in the storage area.

Mixing and Filtering

Before storing, thoroughly mix your paints by hand, and shake commercial products well before transferring them to a different container. Using a filter while pouring paint into a container can help prevent lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.

Preventing Drying

To prevent the paint from drying out, you can mist the surface periodically or invert the closed containers to make it harder for air to penetrate. Additionally, placing the containers in an airtight bag and storing them in a cool place like the fridge can further delay the drying process.

Shelf Life

Most paints have an indefinite shelf life if stored properly and unopened in their original containers. However, some paints do expire, so always check the manufacturer's label. Properly stored paint can last over ten years, but it will eventually dry out if not used.

Using mixed paint

Mixing leftover paints can be an efficient and fun way to consolidate your supply and create custom colours. Before you start mixing, it's important to understand the different types of paint and which can be safely blended. Not all paints are compatible, and combining the wrong types can lead to undesirable results.

When mixing leftover paints, it is generally recommended to only mix the same "type" of paint together. Water-based paints should be mixed with water-based paints, oil-based paints with oil-based paints, chalk/mineral paint with chalk/mineral paint, milk paint with milk paint, interior paint with interior paint, and exterior paint with exterior paint. Mixing sheen is typically fine, but mixing a flat paint with a gloss will result in a less glossy finish. It is also important to use paints of similar ages for maximum compatibility.

If you are mixing paints, it is important to stir them thoroughly before combining them to ensure that all the components are mixed properly. You can use a wooden paint stick or a paint mixer attachment to blend the pigments and paint skin that may have formed over time. If there are lumps or debris in the paint, you can strain it using a paint strainer or cheesecloth before mixing.

Once you have mixed your paints, you can use them for various projects, such as painting furniture, walls, or doors. It is recommended to do a patch test before painting a large area to ensure you are happy with the colour and that the paint adheres well. You should also consider the quantity of paint you will need for your project, including the number of coats and the absorbency of the surface you are painting.

Additionally, it is a good idea to keep any leftover mixed paint for potential touch-ups, labelling the container so you know what it was used for. Mixing leftover paints can be a creative and practical way to utilise leftover paint and create unique colours for your projects.

Frequently asked questions