Simple Tip: Warming Up Oil-Based Paint

If you’re using oil-based paint and finding it thick, difficult to brush or leaving heavy brush marks, a simple trick is to gently warm the paint before using it.

One method is placing the open paint tin into a bucket or tub of warm water for a short time before painting. Some decorators also use a slow cooker on a very low setting to slightly warm the tin safely.

Warming the paint can help:

- improve flow,

- reduce brush marks,

- make application smoother,

- and create a cleaner finish.

Always remove the lid before gently warming paint to help prevent pressure build-up. The paint should only ever be warmed slightly — never overheated — and always kept away from open flames or high heat sources.

Always follow the paint manufacturer’s safety guidance and never heat paint directly or leave it unattended. Paint products can be flammable, so extra care should always be taken when using any warming method.

Small preparation tips like this can make a massive difference to the final finish of a decorating project.