Q&A for How to Make Homemade Paint Thinner

Return to Full Article

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can gas be used to thin paint?
    Community Answer
    It can be used to thin oil paint only and it will be VERY FLAMMABLE. Thinning oil paint with gasoline is not something that should be done indoors, and a proper respirator rated for organic vapors should be worn while preparing the mixture AND while applying the paint after it has been thinned.
  • Question
    How can I measure out a 3:1 ratio?
    Community Answer
    Try: 3 cups paint, 1 cup thinner. Or, 6 cups paint, 2 cups thinner. Use measuring cups made of appropriate materials. For larger amounts, use a 1/2 gallon-gallon container.
  • Question
    Can you put nearly solid paint into a microwave oven to thin it?
    Community Answer
    Do not ever do this! It can release toxic fumes and it may be flammable and cause a fire. The best approach is to make the paint thinner asa suggested in this article or go to a store and ask for a commercially prepared paint thinner. Stay safe!
  • Question
    Can I spray hammerite paint?
    Community Answer
    You possibly could but you would need to get the correct thinners to use as it would clog up your spray gun as it's far too thick.
  • Question
    What does a painter use to make the paint thin?
    Hochimama
    Community Answer
    Paint thinner or acetone can be used. Thinner can remove oil-based paint from brushes and other equipment, but only while the paint it still wet. Acetone is often the only solvent that is strong enough to dissolve paint after it has dried. Paint thinners should not be used with latex paints, shellac or lacquers.
  • Question
    How do I thin enamel craft paints?
    Community Answer
    Water based enamels require clean (bottled) water that over time will not contaminate the paint for longer storage. Paint thinner preserves the paints' finish, acetone type thinners degrade it's finish and can require a top coat finish for a clean and polished appearance at completion. Ratio of thinner to composite varies as to degree of fresh vs altered composite and degree of fluidity component evaporation or air exposure hardening.
  • Question
    Can I mix lacquer thinner with quick-drying enamel B-600 white?
    Community Answer
    No, use only lacquer thinner for lacquer-based paints. B-600 white is an oil-based paint, so use paint thinner.
  • Question
    What can I use as a substitute for paint thinner that's easy to apply?
    Community Answer
    Refined walnut oil is safe to breathe and good for your skin. It is supposed to be archival too, as in it will not yellow over time.
Ask a Question

      Return to Full Article