Creative Ways To Use Leftover Paint!
Every color choice will create a balance in each room, helping to fill the house with style, character, and memories.
But what about after the paint has done its job? A great idea is to always store a little of each color in a small jar, ready to help with any touch-ups that the walls might require throughout the years.
But what about the times when you overestimated and have too much paint, leftover?
Or the times when you thought the color was perfect (on the 2”x 2” card at the store), but by the time you put the first stroke on your wall, you realize it’s not quite what you wanted?
We’re here with ideas for ways to creatively, cost-effectively, and responsibly use up that leftover paint. These are things that anyone can do, and whether you’re the one with all of the extra paint, or you know some people who’re looking to use up their leftovers, these ideas are perfect for anyone!
Enjoy! ((And be sure to visit sites like, ‘Pinterest’, or ‘HGTV’ for countless other ideas)) :)
-- -- When you have paint (of a certain size amount) leftover,
you can you it in various, creative ways…
** Less Than A Gallon:
Consider painting a small room, like a bathroom or a closet; You can experiment with accent walls, one that has a lot of windows, or a wall that flanks stairs.
You can re-coat a scuffed up piece of furniture with leftover paint, giving it a makeover with a fresh pop of color.
(( If you’re looking for ways to use the paint outdoors, paint the brick or stone edging around your garden, or protect an old fence from weathering.))
** A Quart:
This is a perfect size for updating a window frame or two, coordinating picture frames, brightening up the inside of a bookcase, or creating a color “pop” by painting the inside of a drawer in a nightstand.
** A Pint:
Personalize a tray, change the color of a vase, dip the handles of your kitchen utensils, update a table lamp, or make a playful stool by dipping just the legs!
** Sample Sizes:
Cheer up a birdhouse, coordinate some door (or cabinet) knobs, trim the edges of a mirror, stencil a tote bag, or dip some canvas shoes (*you can also splatter some paint on a pair of shoes to give them a modern and playful style).
-- -- More DIY Ideas -- --
*Revamp a yard sale dresser
Give a yard sale dresser a brand new look (and cover up imperfections) with just a little bit of paint. Clean up the drawers, then set them aside and paint the hardware, top and sides with one hue.
(Get the full tutorial): https://www....posed-dresser
*Modernize a Traditional Brass Chandelier
Transform an old brass chandelier from fussy and formal, to functional, fun & fresh!
https://juni...ndelier.html/
*Add Detail to a Basic Door
Contractor-grade doors don't have to be boring. Use an accent color to paint the insets for a modern, graphic detail
*Upgrade Bamboo (or wicker) Furniture
If you've opened a design magazine lately, you know that painted bamboo furniture pieces are experiencing a resurgence. Transform a cheap Craigslist find into a high-end designer piece with just a coat of high-gloss paint and new indoor-outdoor fabric.
*Paint the Front Door
It takes less paint than you think to add a new hue to your home's front door. There’s nothing like a fresh coat of paint in a stunning shade to give your home sweet home, instant curb appeal!
(Tips): https://www....ur-front-door
*Give Basic Pots A Modern Touch
Turn plain terra-cotta pots into a unique home for houseplants with just a little paint. Use plain white as the base, then fit the pot with a rubber band to easily tape off the asymetrical section. Then, add a bright, fun hue.
(Make it): https://www....ment-dwellers
* Make a DIY Painted Headboard
Add style, color and texture to your bedroom with this do-it-yourself headboard that looks anything but DIY. A great project for newbie woodworkers, this headboard can be completed in just a few hours and for less than $100.
(Tutorial): https://www....ood-headboard
-- -- MORE Ways With Paint -- --
** Make Chalkboard Paint
If you have a leftover latex paint, you can create your own chalkboard paint. No need to buy expensive pre-made chalkboard paint, just create your own chalkboard paint. This can be awesome in a kids room for in the kitchen.
(Make it): https://diyp...-making-home/
** Disposing Of Unwanted Leftovers:
Typically, if you have a gallon or more of paint, there are only but so many DIY projects you can use it for.
Here are some great (and responsible) ways to get rid of your paint:
- If you’re trying to get rid of oil-based paint, then you’ll have to take it to a recycling center because it’s considered hazardous waste. Latex paint can be disposed of at home, but if you have a lot of leftover paint and don’t want to deal with the hassle, you should take that to a disposal location. If latex paint is not disposed of properly, it can become hazardous.
- Latex paint can be latex disposed of at home, with a DIY process that adds equal parts cat litter to the leftover paint, then you stir it up and let it sit for about an hour. This dries up the paint and you can just toss it in the trash with the lid off.
(Learn more): https://www....aint-properly
- Not sure of where to drop-off your paint? This website has a handy drop-off locator that helps you find the closest drop-off location near you and tells you how much paint and what other items they accept.
https://www....drop-off-site
** Though they may not technically be disposal centers, you could even donate your paint to local schools, churches, theaters or community centers. Places like that often need paint for projects and have rather limited budgets. You could help the environment and your neighborhood in one easy step!
((And remember to keep us artists in mind when thinking of who to donate to)). :)
!! Not looking to get rid of that paint, just yet? Here are some great tips and tricks for storing it:
http://www.g...er-paint.html
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Whenever you’re in a creative mood, keep Pinot’s Palette in mind! Our painting and wine classes are fun for everyone and you DON’T need t have any prior painting experience! We proudly stand by the belief that ANYONE can paint and our 2-3 hour, step-by-step classes, led by some wonderful teachers, are the proof!
Join us for some of the fabulous artwork, coming up throughout the next few weeks and be amazed as you go from blank canvas to handmade masterpiece in one just class!
Bring your friends and family in to share in this special experience with you, making memories and some excellent artwork, as you go.
The more you interact with a canvas, paint, and brushes, the more confident you’ll becomes, and more likely you’ll be to create your own art at home… Maybe with some of that leftover paint! :)
Cheers!
Share *More ideas for leftover paint | View our calendar and sign up for a class!