Creative Ways to Utilize Leftover Paint

If you just finished a home painting project, you may be looking at a few leftover cans of paint and wondering what to do next. Placing them in storage so you’re prepared for any necessary touch-ups is one option. But if you don’t have the storage space, or if you’re still in the painting mood, consider these creative ways of utilizing leftover paint to add more splashes of color to your home.

Furnishings that are flat, smooth, light-colored or have a natural wood tone are perfect for a splashy coat of paint. Whether it’s a dresser, wooden stool, desk, nightstand or rocking chair, coating it with the paint you used to adorn the walls can really tie a room together. Add some contrast by painting only certain sections of the furniture, like the drawers on a dresser or legs on a stool.

Painting an accent wall is an easy way to break up a monotonous room. Accent walls are traditionally a bright color, but just about any shade can draw the eyes and create a different impression. For example, neutral or dark tones establish deep contrast in a room with white walls. Avoid using a color that doesn’t complement other aspects of the room.

Matching lampshades with your walls is a unique way of forging a bold aesthetic. It only requires a small amount of paint, so it’s perfect if your original project used most of your supply. High-gloss oil-based paints work best, but latex-based paints are also effective. Just be sure the colors work well together for maximum impact.

If you don’t want to take the risk of painting a semi-permanent fixture like your furniture or a wall, buy some glassless picture frames and douse them in color. Frames with unique shapes and designs coated in a bold shade can add an artistic vibe to an otherwise traditional-looking wall. A semi-gloss paint works best for this creative endeavor.

If you can’t find anything to paint inside your home, consider using something from outside. For example, tree stumps can function as rustic end tables. All it takes is a coat of paint and an “earthy” end table instantly becomes a vivid, complementary piece of furniture. Similarly, birch discs can be coated in a matte finish to create a set of decorative drink coasters or a trivet.

These are just a handful of ideas – there are plenty of other ways to utilize leftover paint and give some everyday items in your home a vibrant facelift. When it’s time for a larger project, like interior or exterior painting, it’s best to call on professionals to ensure the job is done with quality and care. The dedicated, detail-oriented painters at Arizona’s Best Family Painting are the Valley’s interior and exterior paint specialists. Call 602-606-2200 for more information or to schedule an estimate.