How to Thin Latex Paint

Thinning latex paint is easy. All you need is water and several clean, empty gallon cans.

Step 1 - Determine that Your Paint Requires Thinning

Not all latex paint needs to be thinned. Before proceeding with the thinning process, administer a quick test to determine if it is necessary. Insert a stirring tool into the paint can. After letting it set for a few moments, pull out the tool, taking care to keep it positioned above the paint can to prevent any paint from dripping on the floor. If the paint drips off the stirring tool in a smooth and even fashion, the latex paint does not require thinning. In fact, any attempt to thin such paint is likely to render it unusable. However, if the paint sticks to the stirring tool or gives off a clumpy appearance, proceed with the thinning process.

Step 2 - Apply Water to the Paint

Having determined that your latex paint is need of thinning, you are ready to begin the thinning process. Instead of a stirring stick, do it the way that pros do it. Have one gallon of paint, and one empty gallon can. Fill the empty gallon can with â�� can of water, and pour the paint and water back and forth. Add another â�� gallon, more or less, and pour the paint and water back and forth from can to can. Water can also be added when “Boxing” several gallons of tinted paint to have the same color and consistency in every can of paint.

TIP: Painting professional Edward Kimble, author of Interior House Painting Blog, suggests, “When closing a can of latex paint to store it, first pour a very small quantity of water over the surface of the paint, and don’t shake the can. The water surface will keep the latex from forming a solid skin on the top of the can of paint.”

Edward Kimble, professional painter and author of Interior House Painting Blog, contributed to this article.