Here’s a trick I’ve been using for a long time to keep oil based paints from getting hard in the can. I always have my propane torch setting around somewhere, so I put a little squirt of propane gas into the can. The gas is heaver than air, so it settles to the bottom and displaces any oxygen from coming into contact with the paint. I also sometimes sprinkle a few drops of thinner on the surface of the paint before sealing it up along with the propane gas.
PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy
PlaneWood
Replies
I've used the propane trick too. I get the "Oh my goodness! Suppose you make a spark when you pry off the lid with a screwdrive. The whole thing will go boom with that explosive gas."
Well, in my experience, I've never been able to get propane to explode in the absence of oxygen, so I ignore pseudo-safety guys.
BJ
Also, if you can locate and hang on to a big bag of marbles, pour some into the can until the paint/varnish, etc., is just below the lid, and close up. The marbles are easily cleaned with white (mineral) spirits, lacquer thinner, etc., when the can is finally emptied.
Anybody know of a cheap source of marbles or similar? I dont have any right now, ha, ha. Slainte, RJRJFurniture
RJ,
Yeah,
Lots of us here have lost ours. Free for the taking!
Rich
If it's a regular paint or varnish can, not screw type, just turn it upside down. Oxygen can't enter. I've been doing this for the better part of fifty years and am beginning to think it works.
> ....a trick I've been using for a long time to keep oil based paints from getting hard in the can.
Just a question from a newbie but .... wouldn't a thin film of plane ol' water work just as well? And be considerably safer?? I've done it in the past and the only thing troublesome about it is being sure to get all the water out b4 using the material.
Inquiring minds want (need) to know....
[email protected]
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled