Whether you're selecting colors for a whole house or just refreshing one room with a fresh coat, it's important to make your paint selections very carefully. Color and finish aren't the only factors that you should take into consideration; to prevent waste and cut unnecessary expenses, you should also know exactly how much you'll need.
Calculating the Right Amount
How do you determine the volume you'll need? Start by taking exact measurements of the walls or surfaces you'll be painting. Don't forget to exclude windows, doors, and other openings that won't be painted. Once you've determined the exact surface area, you can figure out how much paint you'll need to cover it at least twice.
For example, to paint an 8'x10' room with 8' walls, two windows, and one door, you would need approximately one gallon and two quarts of paint. If smaller quantities are not available and you must purchase more than you'll need, try asking for samples to make up for the difference. If that's not possible, coordinate with a friend or neighbor who can use your leftovers.
Creative Uses for Leftover Paint
When you're creative and thrifty, there's no such thing as unwanted paint. If you find yourself with several quarts of leftovers, consider it an opportunity to flex your artistic muscles. Some unconventional uses for extra paint include:
* Abstract artwork - splatter your extra paint across a canvas; if it turns out well, hang it on a freshly painted wall, where its new color will bring out the same exact shades in the painting
* Brand new hue - blend unused white paint into another can of leftovers to create a new, lighter shade; paint a picture frame or small table to complement the darker shade on the wall
* Colorful storage - paint the back panels of your cupboards, cabinets, and bookshelves for an unexpected burst of color
Connecticut's Paint Recycling Program
If you exhausted your creative options and still have some leftover paint,don't forget to dispose of it responsibly. In 2011, the Nutmeg State joined Oregon and California in passing state-wide legislation that prevents paint pollution. Thanks to The Paint Stewardship Law, it's easy (and mandatory) to recycle oil and latex paint in Connecticut.
Like batteries, electronics, and medications, oil-based paint is classified as household hazardous waste (HHW), which most municipalities will help their residents recycle. Latex-based paint is technically solid waste, but it's still included in many HHW programs and events. Locate a drop-off site near you, where you can turn in paint, cans, brushes, rollers, and anything else that you no longer need.