This method may be used on old and new paint cans.

Another method of mixing the paint is to pour it repeatedly from one bucket or paint can to another. Instead of a paint stick, use an electric drill with a paint mixing attachment.

You can also use a funnel to evaluate the paint’s thickness. Hold a funnel over the paint can. Use a ladle to pour the paint into the funnel. If it flows freely through your funnel, then the paint is thin enough. If it does not flow freely through the funnel, it must be thinned.

For quantities under 1 gallon, such as 1 pint, use a smaller bucket.

While you must thin latex paint with water, the amount of water you must add varies from brand to brand. Higher quality latex paint is thicker, therefore requiring more water; lower quality latex paint is thinner, therefore requiring less water. Most paint will require 1. 6 cups of water per 1 gallon of latex paint. Instead of adding all of this water at once, however, it is better to begin by adding less water and gradually add more water as needed. Never add more than 4 cups of water per 1 gallon of latex paint. [5] X Research source If you are using pints of paint, add 2 tablespoons of water per 1 pint of latex paint.

Never add all of the water at once. Add it to the paint in small increments. Before adding more water, pull the paint stick out of the paint to see if it has become smooth or remains clumpy. Repeat as needed. Instead of stirring the paint, you can repeatedly pour the paint from one 5-gallon bucket to another 5-gallon bucket.

When using a sprayer, pour the paint through a strainer and into the reservoir. This will remove any debris that could clog the nozzle. Cap off the reservoir and grab the sprayer. Place the nozzle 8 inches away from the scrap wood or cardboard and spray. The paint should flow smoothly. [8] X Research source When using a brush, dip the tip into the paint. Spread the paint smoothly and evenly over the scrap piece of wood. Allow the first coat to dry before adding a second coat. Test your paint thoroughly before applying it to a large surface.

If you are not successfully thinning the paint with water, try adding a commercial thinning additive. These products are very expensive, so always try water first!

Remember, it is less expensive and time-consuming to properly thin latex paint than it is to remove improperly thinned latex paint and purchase more materials![11] X Research source