How to Store Oil-Based Paints in Plastic

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Things You'll Need

  • Air tight plastic containers

  • Oil paint

  • Funnel or scoop

  • Plastic film

If your paint cans get messy, you can transfer the paint to plastic containers.

Most people store oil paints in their original metal containers. However, the metal containers are large and heavy and are sometimes not the best containers for oil paints. If you transfer the oil paint into a plastic container, you can save space while still keeping the paint fresh for future use. Try to use a container size that the paint will nearly fill to avoid the paint drying out from the air present inside the container after sealing. You can store oil paints for up to 15 years before it starts to go bad.

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Step 1

Pour the paint into air tight plastic containers. If the opening in the container is small, pour the paint through a funnel. If the opening is large, you can pour the paint into the container or use a scoop to move the paint into the container.

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Step 2

Place a layer of plastic film over the top of the container. Place the lid over the container and seal tightly.

Step 3

Turn the container upside down to store. This will form an additional seal barrier from the air with the paint creating a seal around the lid.

Step 4

Place the paint in a cool, dry space away from flame, sparks or anything else that may cause the paint to ignite.

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Step 5

Turn the paint back right side up for a few minutes before removing the lid. Remove any film that may have formed over the paint. Stir the paint together with a stirring stick. If the paint will mix, it is usable. Store oil paints for up to 15 years.

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