If you have a sizable paint job around your home you may consider buying your paint in a 5-gallon bucket. There are definitely advantages of doing this: you won’t have so many individual cans to carry around, and it’s more economical. The problem is that it is harder to mix the paint when it’s in a large container.

Many homeowners will attempt to use a mechanical mixer but end up with more paint on their clothes and on the floor than anywhere else. Here’s how to go about it without making a mess:

  • Buy an extra lid to fit the paint bucket.
  • Drill a hole in the center of the lid with a 7/8″ diameter bit.
  • Remove the lid from the paint can and replace it with the modified lid.
  • Thread a paint mixer through the hole.
  • Chuck the mixer shaft into a drill.
  • Put the lid on the paint can and mix.

Watch the video above to find out more.

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Joe Truini

Joe Truini

Radio Show Co-Host

Joe Truini is a contractor, author, and the host of “Simple Solutions” on Today’s Homeowner TV and the weekly Today’s Homeowner radio show. He has worked on both large commercial projects and residential remodeling, and has written for national publications such as This Old House and Popular Mechanics. He has also written eight books, including three best-selling shed-building books. Joe lives in Connecticut with his family and enjoys hiking, traveling, and baseball in his spare time.

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