Can I Use a Lacquer Thinner to Thin Latex Paint?

Latex paints are most easily thinned by adding water.

Latex paints are commonly used for interior painting projects because of their fast drying time, washable finish and ability to cover previous paint. Latex paints are water based and are most easily thinned by simply adding water. Lacquer thinner should not be used to thin latex paint.

Things You'll Need

• Paint stir stick
• Water

Instructions

1. Test your paint to be sure it needs to be thinned. Stir the paint well using the paint stir stick or other stirring tool. Then slowly pull the stir stick straight up out of the paint and allow the paint to dribble off the stick. If the paint flows off the stick evenly and without hesitation, you don't need to thin it.

2. Add water in small amounts if you determine the paint needs to be thinned. Begin by adding about two tablespoons per pint of paint.

3. Stir the water into the paint well and repeat the paint test. Add additional water until the paint flows smoothly off the stir stick.

Tips & Warnings

• You can add paint conditioner instead of water. A conditioner doesn't actually thin the paint; however, it will improve the condition of the existing paint and may result in the smooth even flow you are looking for without the need for thinning.

References

• Homestead Finishing Products: General Tips for Spraying Paint with HVLP Guns
• Spray Gun World: Floetrol or Extender