Here are two ways to put that scrap window screen or hardware cloth to work for you the next time you get ready to paint.

• Bend a piece of hardware cloth into a “U” shape that fits into the bottom of a coffee can with the bottom of the “U” facing up. Fill the can with paint solvent and agitate the dirty brush on the screen to clean it while the paint solids drop to the bottom of the can.
• To screen out pieces of dried paint in a used can, cut a circle of window screen slightly smaller than the diameter of the can. Then drop the screen into the paint can and push it to the bottom with a stirring stick. This will keep the chunks at the bottom of the can and off of your brush.

Watch this video to find out more.

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3 Comments on “Using Window Screen to Strain Paint”

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1. carlin tucson Says:
   July 26th, 2007 at 10:32 pm

   Hi how are you? my name is carlin, I would like to give you a painting tip. I use a wire brush to clean my paint brush. Give it a try and let me know what you think of my idea.

2. 

   ben Says:
   August 1st, 2007 at 2:27 pm

   Carlin,
   Good tip. Wire brushes are a great way to work dried paint out of a brush during cleaning. Then, after they are dry, lay the brush on a flat surface and comb it again with the wire brush to take the stiffness out and make it as soft as the day you bought it. I use a stainless steel or brass one so it doesn’t rust when it gets wet from latex paint.

3. Maryse Says:
   February 21st, 2008 at 3:48 pm

   A good and fast way to clean your paintbrushes is to use dish soap.

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