What is It?

The paint pot in simple terms is the main modality for the transport of what is in the can or in the bucket to your hand. There are different versions of this tool but only 1 style I recommend for most if not all projects. This version is the round plastic version with a steel all like this one seen here the “Encore Plastics Pail, 5-Quart” from Amazon. Plastic is all you need, I have never seen any paint or hot thinner ever eat a plastic paint pail.

What about other versions?

I have found smaller paint pails are so small that they become cumbersome with the brush in them. The smaller pails also do not allow any room to “strike” the brush off after dipping into the paint. Striking simply refers to patting the brush on each side of the pail to remove the excess paint from the brush end. Too much paint on brush is the main culprit of runs and that nasty brushed hair look on your cut ins to ceiling or along trim. Then you have the too big model. I have actually seen guys cut in with 2.5 gallon pails before, funny, but tiring and heavy. Stay away from this action all together.

Careful..

As with all tools check for any damage. When the plastic tab that holds the bail onto the pail itself is damaged, its time to toss. I have picked up one of these dudes before with a side broken out and spilled paint out of one side. I always check the structural integrity of anything I transport paint in. Paint will go into carpet and hardwood seams a lot faster than it will come out. Well why don’t we just use a metal pail then? Wouldn’t it be stronger? For the price the metal pail it is not justified. Plastic pails will last just as long if cared for and is harder for paint to stick to, thus easier to clean.

Naysayers go to Die Here

I hear some of you more frugal painters saying, “Why don’t I just use the gallon can the paint came in.” Well for one you got to use at least 1 gallon before you can use this method. Second of all these things are hell to clean out for using with another paint. Third and finally, I have found the same problem these cans pose as a smaller in on hand style type pail.

Your brush seems like it is in a tunnel one has to reach in and grab. These tall gallon cans are even worse than a small quart style pail for the reason only the very top part of the handle is able to grab. Striking off the brush is also encumbered by the limited width of the can. In a pinch I do use them if I have to.