Paint Care & Storage Tips:
School paint care tips, paint storage advice, maximizing the longevity of school paints, vibrant results for art projects
Painting is a wonderful art & craft activity that supports a child's creative, social, emotional and fine motor development. Paint is a versatile, flexible, cost-effective art material that can last for a few years if cared for correctly.
Liquid paint is very different to dry artist materials like crayons and pencils, as it is an 'alive' product until it dries on the paper. No matter what brand or colour, paint requires some care to prolong its workable life. Paint that has been contaminated can grow bacteria and develop a strong, unpleasant odour. Learn how to keep your paints fresh and in top condition.
Here are some handy tips to help you store paint safely and maximise its shelf life:
1. Do not pour used paint back into the bottle
Paint can be easily contaminated by dirty brushes, paint pots, children's hands and surfaces. Do not return the unused paint to the original container, as this can contaminate the remaining paint.
2. Pour paint into painting trays
Avoid painting directly from the original bottle. Even stirring the paint with a stick can contaminate it. Instead, only pour out the amount of paint you need for the activity.
3. Oldest first
Use up the oldest paint bottles first. We suggest writing the date on the bottle when you pack away your new paint order or when you first open the bottle.
4. Clean your brushes
Dirty brushes can easily contaminate paint. It's essential to clean your brushes straight after use. Remove excess paint, then wash your brushes with warm soapy water. Clean thoroughly between all bristles, squeeze out excess water and lay flat to dry. Cleaning brushes is especially important if you've been painting with leaves or outdoor materials that could hold bacteria in the brush hair.
5. Keeping very old paint colours
If you have half-used colours that you don't paint with often, pour these into smaller, clean, air-tight containers. This reduces the headspace of air in the bottle and helps prolong the paints life.
6. Storing paint
Store in its original container in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight. Storing in extreme temperatures or in direct sunlight for long periods can significantly reduce the shelf life of the paint.
We hope you find these tips helpful. Happy Painting!
If you have any comments or questions, we would love to hear from you in the comments section below
Thank you.
Tony Parker
