Yes, you absolutely can mix wall paint together. In fact, it is better to combine them!
Why Mixing Wall Paint is Recommended
Mixing multiple cans of the same color and finish of wall paint before you start painting is a common practice among professional painters and DIY enthusiasts alike. The primary reason, as the reference states, is crucial for achieving a consistent look across your entire project.
Mixing helps because:
- Ensures Color Uniformity: Even if cans are the same color and from the same batch, tiny variations can sometimes exist. Combining them into one large batch eliminates these minor differences.
- Prevents Visible Seams: By using a single, uniform color mixture from start to finish, you avoid subtle changes that could appear as seams or variations on your walls where you switch from one can to the next. That way, you don't get minor color variations from one can to the next.
- Simplifies Application: Having one large container ready means less stopping and starting to open new cans.
How to Mix Wall Paint Effectively
Mixing wall paint is straightforward, but a few steps ensure success:
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Gather Your Supplies:
- All cans of paint you plan to use (same color, finish, and preferably type - e.g., latex with latex).
- A clean, larger container (like a 5-gallon bucket) with a lid.
- A paint stirrer or drill attachment mixer.
- Safety goggles.
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Inspect the Paint: Before pouring, check each can. As the reference advises, Just make sure that any cans you mix together are still useable: if one has dried up or has gotten dirt in it, don't mix it with the other(s). Discard any paint that shows signs of spoilage, mold, or contains debris.
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Pour and Combine: Carefully pour the usable paint from all cans into the larger container. Scrape the sides of the cans to get as much paint as possible.
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Stir Thoroughly: Use your stirrer or mixer to combine the paint completely. Stir for several minutes until the color is uniform throughout the bucket. This ensures all pigments are evenly distributed.
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Lid and Store: Place a lid on the large container when not in use to keep the paint fresh.
What Not to Mix
While mixing paint from different cans of the same product is beneficial, avoid mixing:
- Different types of paint (e.g., water-based latex with oil-based alkyd) unless specifically formulated to be compatible.
- Paints with different finishes (e.g., flat with semi-gloss) unless you are intentionally trying to create a custom finish (which can be tricky).
- Paint that is old, dried, or contaminated.
By mixing your wall paint, you ensure a smoother, more professional-looking finish on your walls, free from annoying color inconsistencies.
