How to Make Latex Paint Thinner

Mix your paint well before and after you thin it.

Latex paint was invented in Canada in the 1940s. This water-based paint uses latex --a rubber tree resin--as its binder instead of oil or acrylic. Since it is water-based, it can be made thinner with plain old water instead of paint thinner. Latex paint must be thinned before it is used in a paint sprayer, otherwise it will clog and possibly break the machine.

Things You'll Need

• Mixing stick
• Container

Instructions

1. Stir the paint vigorously to thoroughly mix it. Scrape the paint off of the sides and the bottom of the can as you mix.

2. Pour out the amount of latex paint that you will need into a plastic container. If you will be using the entire can of paint, pour it out anyway. This will help mix it.

3. Add water to the paint. If the latex paint is being thinned for use in a sprayer, thin the latex paint 20 to 25 percent by volume. For example, add 3/4 to 1 cup of water to 1 qt. of paint. Follow the sprayer's instruction for specific dilution rates.

4. Mix the water in well. Stir the paint vigorously with a mixing stick. Scrape the paint off of the sides and the bottom of the container as you mix. Pour it back and forth between two containers to ensure that the water is completely and evenly blended in with the paint.

5. Use the thinned latex paint immediately to avoid separation.

References

• Kassel Painting: Painting FAQs
• Fuji: Technical FAQ