Color Swatch LabGear · CSL–G16
Paint storage and touch-up supplies
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The worst moment to discover a problem is when you need a touch-up and the paint is dried, separated or unlabeled. A few cheap supplies make leftover paint usable for years.
Do not store paint where it can freeze or overheat. Keep cans off concrete floors if you can and away from heat sources. Wipe the rim before closing the lid so the can seals well, and tap the lid down evenly. For testing colors before you commit, see our sample kit page.
Containers and labels
Who it is for: anyone keeping leftover paint.
Smaller containers reduce the air inside, which helps paint last longer.
- 1-quart plastic paint buckets with airtight lids (3-pack)store small amounts of leftover paint for touch-ups. (View on Amazon)
- Empty 3/4 oz glass jars (10-pack)hold touch-up amounts of paint. (View on Amazon)
- Permanent markers, fine point, for labeling canslabel cans with color name, date and room. (Search on Amazon)
- ScotchBlue Original Multi-Surface Painter's Tape, 2 in. x 60 yd (2090-48NC)hangs samples and masks trim without lifting paint. (View on Amazon)
Opening, pouring and closing cans
Who it is for: anyone who has dented a can lid.
Proper tools protect the rim so the lid seals.
- Stainless steel paint can openers (6 pcs)opens lids without damaging the rim. (View on Amazon)
- Rubber mallet, 8 oztaps paint can lids closed. (View on Amazon)
- Allway Easy-Lid paint pouring spout and lid coverpour without drips. (View on Amazon)
- Wooden paint stir sticks, 12 in. (25-pack)mix paint before and during use. (View on Amazon)
Preserving paint
Who it is for: paint you want to keep for a while.
Some people use a preserver spray; always read the manufacturer instructions.
- Paint preserver spray for leftover painta spray some people use to extend leftover paint life. (Search on Amazon)
- Paint strainer bags for 5-gallon buckets, fine mesh (100-pack)strain old or lumpy paint. (View on Amazon)
Touch-up applicators
Who it is for: small repairs without dragging out a full kit.
Small rollers and brushes avoid flashing, where touched-up areas look different.
- 4-inch mini roller with coverfor trim, doors, cabinets and touch-ups. (Search on Amazon)
- Sponge (foam) brushes, 2 in., wood handle (10-pack)disposable brushes for sample boards and small touch-ups. (View on Amazon)
- Purdy XL Dale angled sash brush, 1 in. (144080310)a narrow angled brush for tight trim and small sample boards. (View on Amazon)
- Handy Paint Pail kit with disposable liners and brusha handheld cup for cutting in without a heavy can. (View on Amazon)
- Disposable plastic paint cupsportion out sample paint. (Search on Amazon)
FAQ
- How do I make touch-ups blend in?
- Clean the area, use the same paint and sheen, and feather the edges with a small roller. Touch up the whole wall section if the match is imperfect.
- How long does leftover paint keep?
- Sealed, at room temperature, it can last a year or longer. Check for sour smell, lumps or separation before using it.
- Should I label the paint can?
- Yes. Note the color name, sheen, date and room, and keep a swatch on the lid.
- Can paint freeze?
- Latex paint can be damaged by freezing. Store it where temperatures stay moderate.
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