The importance of using a paint pot

Decanting paint into a paint pot helps to prevent contamination and makes it easier to move around while on the job. Paint being poured is Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen in Resene Dingley.

If you ever observe a professional painter at work, you’ll notice that they’ll always decant their paint from the original can into a separate paint pot. But why? The main reason is to reduce the number of contaminants that can make their way into the paint.

Brushes and rollers that are dipped into a paint can will likely leave behind bristles, dust, dirt, spider webs and all kinds of foreign objects picked up from the surface you are painting, which can lead to bacterial contamination. While Resene paint is made with biocides in it to protect it against this, if the paint is stored for a long period, the contamination can start to take over and spoil it. Pouring a little bit at a time into a separate paint pot will prevent the entire can being ruined.

Choose the right size paint pot for your job and for your paint – Resene has paint pots available in 1L, 2L and 4L sizes. Waterborne paints and stains can generally go into plastic or metal paint pots, while solventborne paints should only be used in metal paint pots as the solvents can affect plastic.

A great hack for pouring your Resene paint from the original can into a smaller pot without making a major mess is by using painter’s tape. Place one piece along the rim of one side of the paint can and a second piece on the rim of the other side, making a pointed end like the top of a triangle. This creates a spout for the paint so you can pour it without paint going everywhere. Once you’re done, simply remove the tape.

This ingenious painter’s tape hack means you won’t make a mess when pouring your paint into a paint pot and it helps to keep the rim free of paint. Paint on right is Resene Lustacryl in Resene Parsley.

Paintbrushes – both old and brand-new – can have loose bristles. To avoid them getting into your paint, before you start painting and while your paintbrush is still clean, work the bristles back and forth across your fingers to remove any dust, dirt or loose bristles. If you’re using waterborne paints, you can lightly moisten a natural bristle brush with water first to help you apply the paint more evenly.

Keep it fresh

When it comes to storing the original paint can, make sure the rim is clean of paint, otherwise it can act like glue once you put the lid back on. Store it away from extreme heat or cold and out of reach of children. Some painters prefer to store their paint upside down – if you do this, cover the top of the paint can with plastic wrap and place the lid on securely before turning it upside down. The paint will create a tight seal around the lid and remain fresh.

If you need to do a touch-up later on, or want to use leftover paint on another project, give it a sniff first. Paint that’s gone off smells rotten, and it’s best not to use it. If you’re not sure, take it into your local Resene ColorShop and they’ll check it for you. When cared for and stored properly, paint can last five years or more. With older paint it’s best to stir it well and strain it before use just to get out any bits. On the flipside, paint that hasn’t been cared for correctly can go off quickly.

Protection from the elements is another thing to consider. If you’re painting outside, never leave your main Resene paint can in direct sunlight. Much like custard, paint can skin easily when the temperature changes rapidly. On very hot days, leave it indoors and just pour the paint you need for each painting session into your paint pot.

Before you start, gently rub your paintbrush back and forth across your hand to remove any dust, dirt or loose bristles that could contaminate your paint.

Another great reason to use a paint pot is that they’re much easier to move around when you’re working in awkward spots. Balustrade painted in Resene Dark Slate.

If you need to do a touch-up later on, or want to use leftover paint on another project, give it a sniff first. Paint that’s gone off smells rotten, and it’s best not to use it. If you’re not sure, take it into your local Resene ColorShop and they’ll check it for you. When cared for and stored properly, paint can last five years or more. With older paint it’s best to stir it well and strain it before use just to get out any bits. On the flipside, paint that hasn’t been cared for correctly can go off quickly.

Portable painting

Another reason to decant your paint into a pot is that it can make your job much more comfortable. Holding a small paint pot is much easier when you’re painting around the house or in hard-to-reach spots, as opposed to lugging the big can around. You’ll also avoid major spills and paint wastage.

To get the best results when painting from your paint pot, hold the brush with your first two fingers and thumb, not too tight or too loose. Dip one-third to one-half the length of the bristles into the paint pot, removing excess paint by tapping the brush on the side of the container. Avoid dipping the entire length of the bristles into the paint as this will push paint into the ferrule of the paintbrush, which can cause it to clog up. Plus, you’ll likely end up with paint drips, making it harder to get a smooth finish.

Wrap your brush in plastic wrap or place your roller in a plastic bag when you’re taking a break. Squeeze out the air and tie the bag securely around the handle of the roller. This will keep the paint fresh and will save you repeatedly having to rinse out brushes and rollers.

Top tip:

If you have leftover Resene paint cans, remember these can be returned to most Resene ColorShops (NZ) where they will be recycled through the Resene PaintWise programme. In Australia you can use the Paintback service. Donating your paint to the community is another great way to make a difference. From schools to local libraries, your extra paint can make a positive impact. Make sure you donate the paint while it is still in good condition so that it can be easily used for another project.