Mixing satin paint before painting is straightforward, but the specifics depend on your goal. Do you need to adjust the consistency for easier application or are you trying to achieve a specific color or sheen?
Adjusting Consistency for Application
For most water-based satin paints, like Annie Sloan Satin Paint, you can add a small amount of water to thin the paint and improve its application. However, avoid excessive dilution, as this compromises the paint's durability. Annie Sloan's website recommends adding water only if you experience application difficulties.
- Method: Add water gradually, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Test the consistency on a small, inconspicuous area before painting the entire surface.
Mixing for Color or Sheen
Mixing satin paint with other paints to alter color is common practice. However, adjusting the sheen by mixing different sheens (e.g., mixing satin and gloss) is more complex and the results are not always predictable. While mixing satin with semi-gloss or eggshell may work well as suggested by Pretty Handy Girl, mixing satin with a significantly different sheen, such as gloss, may yield inconsistent results. Always test the mixture on a hidden area first.
- Color Mixing: Use a small amount of the new color to achieve the desired shade. Mix thoroughly and test before applying to the entire surface.
- Sheen Mixing: Proceed cautiously. Thorough mixing is crucial, and the final sheen may not be exactly what you anticipate. A test patch is strongly recommended.
Several YouTube videos demonstrate paint mixing techniques, including those specifically focused on satin paint:
- HOW TO MIX SATIN PAINT (pale beige)
- How to mix satin paint || paint production process || off white Color
- How to mix satin paint || how to produce paint || Cameo Color
Remember, preparation is key. Always stir the paint thoroughly before adding any water or other paint. Small, incremental adjustments are preferred to avoid making large, irreversible changes.
