We get it – when you’ve finally picked the perfect shade and you’re ready to transform your space, the last thing you want is an extra step slowing you down. But trust us, giving your emulsion a proper stir before you start decorating is one of the simplest ways to guarantee a smooth, even, and beautiful finish.
But be warned! Always read the pack instructions first, as certain paints should not be stirred as it can affect the structure of the mixture e.g. Non Drip Gloss.
Let’s dive into why stirring emulsion matters (and how to do it right).
What happens if you don’t stir your paint?
Even the best-quality water-based emulsion paint naturally separates over time. Pigments (the colour), binders, and water can settle into layers while the paint sits in the tin. But don’t panic if you open your can and it looks weird… it just needs a good stir!
If you skip stirring, you might end up with:
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Uneven colour on your walls
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Patchy or streaky coverage
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A finish that looks different from what you expected
In short: all the things you don’t want after putting in the effort to decorate!
Why stirring makes all the difference
Stirring brings everything back together, ensuring:
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The colour is consistent from the first brushstroke to the last
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The texture is smooth and workable
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The paint performs exactly as it’s designed to
Think of it like making a good cup of tea – you wouldn’t skip the stir and expect the flavour to be spot on.
How to stir emulsion properly
It shouldn’t be rocket science, but here are some top tips:
1. Open the tin carefully
Use a flat tool (like a screwdriver or paint tin opener) to gently lift the lid without bending or snapping it.
2. Grab the right tool
We’ve all sacrificed the odd spoon, chopstick or maybe even a drumstick before now, but ideally you want to use something long enough to reach the bottom of the can and wide enough to get the paint moving. A dedicated paint mixing stick is ideal, or use an off-cut of wood roughly an inch wide. For larger tins, a drill with a mixing attachment can save time (and your arm!).
3. Stir thoroughly
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Start from the bottom of the tin (this is where the pigment settles)
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Use a steady, circular motion
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Scrape along the sides to make sure everything is combined
Give it a good 1-2 minutes – you’re aiming for a completely uniform consistency.
4. Check before you start
Lift your stirrer out of the paint. If the colour and texture look even (no streaks or watery patches), you’re good to go.
5. Repeat as you go
If you’re painting for a while, give the paint a quick stir every so often to keep it consistent.
Pro tips for perfect results
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Mix large batches of paint together: if you’re using multiple cans of the same colour, mix them together in a larger container to avoid slight variations.
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Don’t shake emulsion paint: it can introduce air bubbles, which may affect your finish.
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Keep the lid on between uses: this prevents drying and keeps your paint in top condition.
A small step, a big impact
Stirring your paint might feel like a tiny detail, but it has a big impact on your final result. It’s the difference between “that’ll do” and “wow, that looks amazing.”
So before you dip your brush or roller, take a moment to stir – it’s your secret weapon for a flawless finish.
Happy decorating!
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