Use calculators to determine how much paint you will need to buy
- Don’t forget to always check the packaging as well
- Sherwin William’s Calculator
- Lowes Calculator
- Benjamin Moore
- Glidden Calculator
- True Value Calculator
- Behr Calculator
- Valspar Calculator
- Home Depot Calculator
Choose to roll your paint: paint sprayers use about one third more paint than rolling or using a paint brush.
- If you do use a paint sprayer, make sure to pump any unneeded paint back into the can instead of spraying any leftover paint into the air.
Get creative and use old paint for other projects
- Use old paint for picture frames, wood furniture, flowerpots, or even an accent wall in another room.
Save old paint properly for touch ups or future projects
- Use a paint can opener instead of a screwdriver to prevent damaging the seal.
- Use a paint can spout to prevent paint from getting in the grooves of the rim.
- Reseal leftover paint in the original can with a rubber mallet. You can also put a piece of plastic wrap under the lid before resealing which may help make a better airtight seal. Make sure you wipe off any paint dripped on the outside before storing.
- If you only have a little paint leftover you can pour it into a well sealing mason jar.
- Make sure to label the cans or jars with the project the paint was used for and the date it was sealed.
- Keep the paint in a dry place with consistent temperature (freezing and heat will make the paint separate). Typically, this is a utility room, laundry room, or basement away from the furnace or dryer.
- When reusing old paint make sure it is still good. If it smells funky it is most likely unusable. Make sure the paint has not separated by stirring it thoroughly. Do a small test before going ahead with your project, if the paint is lumpy or rough looking it should not be used.
