Storage is everything. Don’t just toss a can in a damp garage or a freezing shed. That’s like leaving a good book out in the rain—it’s not going to end well.
Keep your cans in a cool, dry place, ideally around room temperature. I keep mine in a plastic bin in my closet, right next to my winter hats. It’s weird, but it works.
Also, invert the can and spray it clear after each use. This clears the nozzle of leftover paint. It’s like rinsing your paintbrush—takes two seconds, saves you a headache later.
The “Last Resort” Trick for Old Cans
If you have a can that’s sluggish but not dead yet, try warming it up. Put it in a bowl of warm water for five minutes (not hot, you’re not making soup). The heat helps the paint flow better.
Then, shake it like you’re trying to wake up a sleepy friend. Give it a solid two-minute shake after the warm bath. Sometimes, it comes back to life like a cinematic hero.
I did this with a can of matte black that was three years old. It let out a little puff, then a beautiful, even spray. I felt like a magician. Most of the time, though, it’s still a gamble.
Does Art Paint Expire
