How to decant aerosol paint for Airbrush spraying safely

[@arthurscott8583]

Just tried it on a 1/4 full can of Tamiya TS. Worked a treat thanks for the tip. Found a bradawl did the first hole easily. After de-gassing I then open this hole a bit and made a smaller one on the opposite side. Paint poured out really easily although a bit like a fizzy drink. Opened up the can with a pair of mini tin snips and there was very little paint left in the can. Wouldn't bother to do this again as the 2 hole method is good as long as paint well mixed unless you want to retrieve the ball bearings or in the case of this tamiya TS can a couple of small glass marbles. Thanks again.

[@rb67mustang]

Thank you very much!!! I spray painted some things I made, and there were hard to reach areas. If I put a heavy coat of paint to get these areas, it would have caused runs and ruined my items. I'll follow your instructions and finish the paint job with my airbrush!!! Cheers from the USA!!!

[@davida369]

thx for that, found an airbrush and compressor and have a few cans of old spray paint and was wondering about this, the cost of airbrush paints is eye-watering.

[@adystoyrescue.atrmods.8810]

Thank you so much for making this tutorial. Yours was the first one I choose to watch, you have showed me all I need to know. I am new to airbrushing and I have just started a hobby where I will need correct car colours for restoring toy vehicles. Decanting rattle cans is going to work out a hell lot cheaper! : )

[@spidiq8]

Glad to help. Enjoy your repainting.

[@blindguy7428]

Great vid...ruined a nozzle in the can as it's clogged internally...I have 2 airbrushes and now can salvage the paint....thanks a lot !

[@wmfife1]

While most aerosol mixes are not designed for doing miniatures (e.g. "miniature paint", those designed for most airbrush applications - ) this is still a highly useful tool for salvaging unused pain trapped in aerosol cans that have given up after long-term storage, of which I have several. As you say, there is much more stored in those cans than at first appears so knowing this can prevent large amounts of outright waste. In either case, Thank You for this presentation. Sometimes you just need to match colors and hand-mixing often falls short.

[@Bassmunchkin1]

WOW to say this is excellent timing is an understatement. Never knew we could do this safely. I ran out of my potted black Army Painter today which I was using for my airbrush as a primer. I have 2 cans of black Army Painter primer, what a touch, especially as its xmas day tomorrow and everywhere is shut and I'm skint. I'll spend the day releasing, pouring and storing and then on boxing day... happy days. Thanks again for yet another excellent tutorial

[@spidiq8]

You're welcome, glad to help and happy painting.

[@hellseeker-inc9756]

One note, the straw inside "looks" like it may be a great replacement for short airbrush siphon straws. " for those who want to use a bigger makeshift airbrush pot" that way it can reach the bottom of whatever bottle you rig up. I have to get some laquer thinner before i can try, but thought the straw thing might be a great bonus if it fits😉 Awesome tutorial☺

[@spidiq8]

Good idea, thank you. Another straw that fits are used Biro refills if you're looking for alternatives.

[@hellseeker-inc9756]

@@spidiq8 good to know☺ Im new on airbrushing so this may be a dumb question but can you use laquer thinner on acrylic paints? From what im understanding acetone is NOT ok for cleaning the airbrush after this method? But is laquer thinner ok on paint types? Or just laquer based? Sorry. I am still very new to all this

[@spidiq8]

@@hellseeker-inc9756 No problem, I'm happy to help and we were all new to this at some point. Unfortunately it's not straightforward because acrylic only refers to the pigment and binder of the paint, acrylic paints can be water based like Vallejo, mig, citadel, Revell, Humbrol acrylics or they can be alcohol based like Tamiya. You can use lacquer thinner to thin and clean Tamiya but shouldn't use it to thin a water based acrylic. With a water based acrylic you should ideally use their own brand of thinners or water. As a newcomer I'd recommend that you use the own brand thinner to begin with so you can get a 'feel' for the paint and how it should spray, that way once you're experienced you can try other thinners and know what to expect so you can adjust to suit. Regarding cleanup, avoid using acetone at all as it's a very aggressive chemical and nasty to breathe in. You can use isopropyl alcohol for acrylics, white spirit for enamels and cellulose/lacquer thinner for lacquer paints OR....... lacquer thinner for all paint types. You need a decent respirator for enamel and lacquer spraying and at least a basic mask for water based acrylic, you don't really want to be breathing in paint particles no matter what the solvent is. While the siphon feed brushes have their uses, airbrush art and ability to switch between colours for example, a gravity feed might suit you better for model making and typically requires lower pressure thereby reducing spray. I have some other videos covering airbrush types, fault finding and cleaning if you check my playlists.

[@madad8]

Surely it would be a good idea to "de-gas" the can first by holding upside down and depressing the nozzle? Also, a standard can opener fits the bottom of a spray can quite nicely for removal ;)

[@spidiq8]

Or alternatively you can pierce it as leave it to de gas itself while sitting on its very stable Base while you go and have a cuppa and a bite to eat instead of holding it upside down and pressing the nozzle for ages ;) Good tip about the can opener though, thanks.

[@madad8]

It still needs de-gassing by piercing after, but doesn't matter if the can hasn't been sitting for 12 hours first ;)

[@nathanredman446]

Adam Squires

[@sweetlifetv5304]

brilliant idea! tnx!

[@michealhuff2299]

Adam Squires Many new cans like Rustoleum are now using liquid propellant for the "spray any angle, even upside down" option. Try holding a can of Krylon made after 2016 upside down to clear your valve and cap..... This old technique will soon be obsolete.

[@IraqCTR]

My, what a fancy name for emptying a can of spray paint -Think I will be decanting mine today too!

[@spidiq8]

IraqCTR It's literally what that word means, nothing fancy.

[@erikiacopelli451]

never ever thought of doing this. But Im GLAD you showed this cuz for me its would be cheaper for me to do this then order online airbrush paint. So THANK YOU!!

[@spidiq8]

Erik Iacopelli Glad I could help you.

[@petermenningen338]

I like your method and it will work on cans that have plugged nozzles from improper storage. You can get those at garage sales for the taking.

[@spidiq8]

Peter Menningen Glad it's useful

[@petermenningen338]

Just an added note you should label the new container as to the type of paint that is in the container. There are water based spray paints out there now so it is good to know if it is a Lacquer, Oil or water based paint for thinning and cleaning. My suggestion here is to store the types seperatly by type.

[@spidiq8]

Peter Menningen Good point, though I usually only have one paint decanted at a time.

[@colecollins5642]

A video I didn't know I needed until autoplay started it up. Subscribed for more

[@spidiq8]

Glad it helped.

[@simonw1169]

always wondered if there was a safe way to do that.. i always thought the can would explode if burst, obviously not! thankyou :)

[@alexcantlow2920]

Simon W guess you never played dumb games as a kid then 🤣

[@mikejungferman4744]

Yes you have to mix the paint good , then let it settle, idk how long, but the first 3 cans I did look a little loose before shaking method, it's trial and error, and I used a wooden spoon and every hour I opened my jar and sturred the paint a little to get more gas out , it lingers in the paint for a bit, I'm hoping tomorrow I look at it and it's ok

[@igonnabreakmyrustyca]

Thanks for sharing. I was troubled by multiple clogged cans, got to decant them like this and use them in airbrush

[@LyrinLoreweaver]

Great tutorial...I had a spray can with a broken straw that couldn't be replaced (of course the color has been discontinued.) Just finished pouring our the paint into jars & letting it degas a bit more....Thanks!

[@spidiq8]

Kivara You're welcome, glad to have helped.

[@ph1gm3nt]

To clear the nozzle after using you hold the can upside down and just press the nozzle. A little paint comes out, that was left in the feed tube. So why not just keep the nozzle down til the propellant exhausts?

[@spidiq8]

Fatigue. Aches. Inhalation of propellants. The fact that punching a hole and leaving it on a stable base when you're cutting it open anyway while you have a cuppa? This has been asked and answered above in the comments before. Of course there's nothing stopping you doing it that way if you want to do that.

[@caretaker826karim3]

thank you you saved my paints seating on shelve wondering how can i savage them into bottles

[@banjofett3949]

This video was quite enjoyable to watch, my father may find this more useful than I ever could.

[@alloutofbubblegum8165]

I love your video, tin snips will work in a pinch, and a can opener as well. But, someone might also use a exhaust pipe cutter to open the can. I think also something like a wooden vise with a sharpened bolt or nail might work as well. Especially if someone does not have the strength to poke a hole into the can. Just my thoughts on that. Keep up the great videos.

[@spidiq8]

All Out Of Bubblegum All good ideas, the exhaust pipe cutter would be interesting for anyone who has one.

[@uzi1951]

Try this can opener, it should work taking the bottom off. Mainstays Safe Cut Black Can Opener THE SAFECUT DOES NOT PUNCTURE CAN FROM THE TOP LIKE A TRADITIONAL CAN OPENER. ONCE YOU START TURNING THE KNOB, THE CUTTING WHEEL ENGAGES FROM THE SIDE AND CUTS INTO THE BEAD OF THE LID.

[@corkcamden9878]

If you take a bit more care, you can vent the can on the bottom, and when the can is de-gassed, use a can opener. There are lots of different methods. Whichever one suits. Cheers!

[@spidiq8]

Tried a can opener after a viewer suggested it a few years ago, a standard one doesn't work, some might but your regular cheap kitchen can openers don't.

[@BennyCFD]

I think this is a great idea. The only thing I would do different is to tape a short piece of straw and decant to a small jar the amount you're going to need.

[@spidiq8]

You can by all means decant that way but it's far far messier and unless you need to save the can for use as a spray can decanting the entire thing mess free in one go makes much more sense. I've seen pepper get covered when the straw method doesn't work right.

[@marcnaidu5804]

So put the can in the freezer first for 20 minutes and then can pierce the top of the can to let out the propellant, yes? No need to degas by pressing down the head because the pressure in the can is greatly reduced by the cooling in the freeze, correct?

[@spidiq8]

Theoretically it 'could' help. It won't remove the need to expel the propellant as it's pressurised but I wouldn't for wish of freezing affecting the paint and solvent.

[@luthieriadobranco8644]

hello, nice milestones!! I saw your video explaining how to take off the spray paint ok tell me please! Can this spray paint swirl guitars in water? if yes which spray should i use? thank you so much

[@aaronfuksa2047]

Eager to find out how much clear i should begin mixing with the color to make a custom translucent candy paint. Inefficient, but it should work.

[@spidiq8]

Sounds interesting, please report back with the results.

[@aaronfuksa2047]

@@spidiq8 given time, i will try. Magenta is neat, but i have fusha pink to play with. Always apply over metal flake.

[@michaelhalbert9264]

Definitely out of the box thinking. I might try it and compare with the straw method. Also, I've let my paint set only 5-10 minutes not hours and it's worked. Thank You

[@spidiq8]

That's good to know, I admit, I was erring on the side of caution and I guess being so runny it settles to the bottom very quickly. I'd be interested to see a comparison if you film it.I do believe the straw method to be far messier and yield less paint though. Glad you found the video helpful.

[@elegantinfusions]

Thanks to Fred of Modellers UTD for sending me this vlog, I have 15 cans of Tamiya I need to use. at last it wont be wasted money just sitting there. great one thanks

[@KRGraphicsCG]

Definitely will be doing this for all of my model painting needs, especially for aitbrushing

[@spidiq8]

Kashif Riley Glad it's useful to you.

[@hl1796]

thank you for the demonstration, may i ask, for a typical can like this, how many ml bottle it can fill ?. I just like to know to prepare bottle in advance

[@650r_ninja_phx6]

Roughly per aerosol can you'll have approximately 8oz. If the can says 12oz, the other 4oz. Is propellant.

[@PaulPaid]

After opening, ( punch a hole on opposite sides to get propellant out quicker) leave the can in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes or use a heat gun. Then stir with a paint stick or Popsicle stick to be sure you get out all the propellant.

[@spidiq8]

I personally wouldn't recommend heating as there's a flash risk but it would speed it up. Generally there's no rush when doing this though.

[@TheDrPhred]

If you know anyone who vapes, the bottles the juice comes in makes great bottles for paint. Holds a couple of ounces and has a small tip for pouring. Wash them with alcohol first.

[@spidiq8]

Useful tip for those who do thanks. Do you know if they seal airtight?

[@TheDrPhred]

@@spidiq8 Yes they do, I have never had paint dry up in these

[@spidiq8]

@@TheDrPhred Thanks

[@CurvedSlightly]

Anyone know why they paint a line on the top of the can? I realise you're supposed to line it up with the nozzle but why? I can't see why lining it up will do anything different?

[@spidiq8]

No idea. It shouldn't make a difference where the nozzle points.

[@jenniferkline4196]

I do you spray paint art. I do like moons, planets etc... From what I understand the line is supposed to be lining up where the bottom of the tubes pointing,so basically the top tube if you line it up with a black line will be exactly lined up with where the tube is touching at the bottom. I never fact check this or anything,That's just what some REAL 😂spray paint artists have told me. I was curious in the past as well.

[@vinny9708]

Thank you for this brilliant vid,what is the best stuff to use to clean your airbrush with afterwards

[@spidiq8]

Cellulose thinner will clean every type of paint residue but if you're only using acrylics then Isopropyl alcohol will be ideal for it.

[@Cien_Swiatla]

are you saying that making bigger hole in the can will relies more pressure?

[@spidiq8]

The bigger the hole the more rapidly the pressure will release but you don't want to punch a huge hole in it as it'll force some paint out with the rapid release, a small hole to begin with then as the pressure is lowered you can enlarge it.

[@Cien_Swiatla]

@@spidiq8 Thx :-)

[@Av987]

Thanks dude, I tried this today on two cans, first one went great! But the second started squirting all over the place even though it had been sitting there unshaken for hours. I must admit, I laughed my ass of when it happened, but the aftermath wasn't so great... Whole workbench including tools covered in black paint. But anyway, is there any way to know if the paint has been settled at the bottom before I start drilling a hole so it doesn't squirt all over the place?

[@allys537]

What's the shelf life of the decanted paint once sealed in a jar? Say I get a can of Model Master Camouflage Grey and try this... I now get say 3 bottles of paint how long do they last? I've had regular MM paints last 20 years.

[@spidiq8]

Years if sealed and stored properly, important thing is to let it gas off first and once that's done you can seal it in an alright jar, store somewhere cool and just use as necessary then.

[@Gotallofthem1]

I want to Decant a Duplicolor Paint; the Product details say BINDER TYPE: Acrylic, AUTO PAINT TYPE: Basecoat, SOLVENT TYPE: Toluene. What kind of thinner would I use for this paint as I need to get it through a fine needle/tip. Thanks

[@spidiq8]

Toluene is a petroleum distillate, in the simplest terms re paint types and thinners an extract of 'mineral spirits', like white spirit or turpentine, albeit faster evaporating and with the 'oily' properties removed. You should be absolutely fine mixing and spraying this with Cellulose, (lacquer) thinners and it may perform well with white spirit or turpentine also, I recommend you take a small amount and try with mineral spirit, (Turps, or enamel thinners is OK) and with Cellulose and see which performs best for you. Do make sure you spray in a well ventilated area and use a respirator as Toluene, as with most thinners, is harmful.

[@Gotallofthem1]

Thank you

[@spidiq8]

You're welcome, good luck with your painting project.

[@impalarg2012]

Same here I have this idea that I can do this to about a gallon or two of Dupler color I have a stockpile place that I can go get him a bunch of these cans from. Was wondering if this can be done to make a gallon like a said and spray out a whole car in a regular spray again. Any advice

[@stevebray71]

@@spidiq8I used to work in a factory where we made industrial paints & the only I would say it 1st what a great way of getting a cheapish source of paint to use, I mean I've just been helping a friend with their car to repair damaged lacquer and base coat & it's exactly like u said, if u get the paint out of the can the cost difference is quite surprising to buying custom mixed colours . But the 1 thing is number 2 Toluene is really sensitive to static so u just have to be really careful more than using standard mixed paint. I know that the other paints are still just as dangerous but when they have toluene in the mix that just increases the risk of the vapour being ignited a lot more when the product is atomized,. You've gained a sub from me straight away just with this 1 tip but the best bit about this idea is like you said that you have so much more control over the pattern, amount & it's just so much more a far superior finish than out of the can.

[@YachtLife]

Being that you're the only person on youtube that has done it partially the way I would do it.... Could this be done to a BRAND new can of paint? Could one, Upside down the can, then cut it open upside down..and pour out the ENTIRE can of contents? Does the can have to be "ALMOST" empty????

[@spidiq8]

Nope, not at all, this is a full can. I decant whole cans this way all the time except one or two very rare occasions when I prime a large (non model) item first. Many will tell you this is dangerous or messy but that's nonsense, it's the same as opening the nozzle. If you wanted you could upend the can and spray as much propellant out as possible with the nozzle first, it'll spray a tiny quantity of paint initially though so do this outdoors.

[@YachtLife]

​@@spidiq8 That's exactly what I was thinking. I was going to use a Rustoleum product that isn't offered in a Gallon or Pint form, decant a set of BRAND NEW cans, cut them open, pour them into a container, and spray them from an electric spray gun. Thanks for the quick reply! I had no idea you'd even respond given the video is quite dated! IF my brain remembers, I will be sure to mention you in the video!

[@YachtLife]

@@spidiq8 Also, do I need to shake the can before upending the can to decant? Should I leave the can to sit for x-hours upside down to "separate" the two?

[@spidiq8]

Yacht Life A good shake won't hurt to mix the pigment if it's been on a shelf for a while and settled but you'd have to let it sit for at least 10 min as the contents would be mixed and under slightly greater pressure. No need to sit it upside down though. The nozzle is connected to a straw inside the can which goes to the bottom of the can do upside down it'll only be spraying out propellant, (this is why it's the recommended way to clear the nozzle before storage). Once it's depleted enough then sit in its lid upside down and just pierce a small hole near the bottom instead of the top then cut open once it stops hissing, a dribble of cellulose thinner swirled round will get any dregs of pigment stuck to the inside of the can and don't tightly cap the jar you decant to for 24 hours. Scree a lid on but not tight as there'll still be gas in there.

[@spidiq8]

@@YachtLife No problem and thanks, that's kind of you. I'm fairly active on here and try to respond to add much as I can. A bugbear of mine is someone uploading content and never replying to comments or questions. One final safety note, if it's very warm where you are, be careful to do this somewhere cool as heat will create more pressure, give me a shout when you upload the video and I'll take a look.

[@ADRIAAN1007]

why not just turn the can upside down and press the trigger to release the propellant, like the can instructs you for clearing the nozzle?

[@spidiq8]

Because you'd have to hold it for ages and get cramp in your finger and inhale all that lovely propellant and end up floating instead of letting it gas off and go and do something else, it's also quicker to pierce it and you have to cut it to pour the paint anyway.

[@Bob_Dub]

@@spidiq8 You're releasing the same amount of butane/propane/other no matter which method you use.

[@spidiq8]

@@Bob_Dub Yes you are. But while it's sitting on its base and is nice and stable Vs being upside down, you leave it outdoors or in a well ventilated space while you walk away and let it do it's thing knowing it will work because a hole won't seal itself whereas sitting upside down in an unstable manner with tape holding the button would need more attention as the likelihood of failure or mess is much much higher.

[@peterchessell28]

Puncture both sides and itl pour much easier gret way of doing it though

[@Wyocowboyz72]

Your directions were awesome. I should have paid more attention to your video. First can was an epic fail. I just punctured to big of a hole, and I got everything! I will not do that again!😅

[@carlosolguin84]

Would Puting the can in the freeze help from paint getting every were when u puncture it to degas it???

[@spidiq8]

I wouldn't recommend doing that and have no idea what effect it might have. Paint doesn't come out at all provided it's sat for a little while first, it only escapes a bit here because I agitate the can while filming where I'd normally leave it sitting until it's released all the gas.

[@KoLuX57]

Try using a wd-40 tip to empty paint containers, it has a tip with a long tube.

[@pacomartinez4296]

Shouldn't you filter the paint so no metal shavings will mess up your tip of your airbrush??

[@spidiq8]

The paint is filtered after it has degassed in it's container and put into clean containers and sealed ready for use.

[@ricjackson2841]

Ok I'm really tempted to try this on new and lightly used primers, I'm just concerned about it blowing up on my face or in general and what size containers should I use to store it all ?

[@spidiq8]

If you follow the guide in the video that can't happen, an aerosol will only blow up under extreme pressure, for example if heated rapidly or to extreme temperatures. Let it settle for a few hours, and pierce the tin with either a pointed scribe type tool or even a drill bit in a hand drill. Let it de-gas then cut it and pour, if you check the side of the aerosol it will tell you the quantity and that will dictate the size of the container you put it into, i'm currently using a glass sauce type bottle, make sure you pop the glass ball from the can in to help agitate it after and make sure you give the can a good swish to pick up all the pigment even if you have to pour some back into the can swish it a bit then pour back into the container.

[@ricjackson2841]

spidiq8 I live in Phoenix Arizona where it is over 100 degrees outside which is where I was planning on doing this. Would that be possible too hot?

[@spidiq8]

Eric Jackson That's just under 40°C, hot but nowhere near enough to be a risk, if you throw an aerosol on a fire it won't pop until it reaches far above that and the real risk is RAPID temperature increase. Essentially, if you can stand outside with an aerosol can without fear of it blowing up then this method cannot possibly create a danger, remember you're releasing the pressure gradually same as pressing the spray nozzle, just a little faster. If you're in any way concerned, hold the can upside down and press the nozzle until the pressure begins to slow then pierce it to get the remainder of the gas out. You'll lose a tiny amount of paint that's sitting in the pickup tube but provided you don't move or shake the can around after that initial bit it'll just spray propellant gas.

[@rexmericle5068]

Great video! I currently have a can that is almost full but stopped spraying after a few seconds. I tried replacing the spray nozzle with a known good one but that didn't help. I've had this problem with several RustOleum cans over the years. I've come back to airbrushing after a 45 year break and was hoping to get the paint out of this almost full can! Thanks to you now I know a safe way to do that! Guess what I'll be doing tomorrow morning? :) Thank you sir!

[@spidiq8]

Glad to help. Be sure to not have the can out in the heat for long before piercing it.

[@rexmericle5068]

@@spidiq8 I kept the can in my garage so it stayed fairly cool. Did a very small hole and let it set for 4 hours. Enlarged the hole, cut about a 2 inch slot from it and poured the paint into another container. It was close to 200ml! No more wasted paint for me. Many thanks!!!

[@ChrisKadaver]

If I have spraycans with water based paint. Can i mix it witt regular wall paint if I wanna use a roller instead of airbrush? Will it mix in a good way? Lets say I have metallic silver spray paint and would wanna mix with a matt grey to get like a semi-metallic shine but still a bit more matt than just the silver paint?

[@spidiq8]

The paint types would have to be compatible in chemical makeup, unless you're moving paints from the same manufacturer there's no way of saying for certain unless you try unfortunately.

[@ChrisKadaver]

@@spidiq8 It is the same brand. But I don' think the wall paint is meant to be mixed with paint from a spray can. I guess I have to try it out. They cost next to nothing since my girlfriend work at the store so she has more than a 50% discount. Thanks for this informative video! :)

[@spidiq8]

@@ChrisKadaver just mix a little together to test it first. If it's the same brand you've got a better chance of it working.

[@weavostigercat2000]

Great vid , never thought of doing this ,had some cans go faulty on me ,wouldn't spray but nearly full ,thanks for the idea .

[@monkeywrangler5200]

Graham W2000 can refill with air with a tire valve from the auto parts and either a compressor or a small hand pump.

[@tomasjeffersonhernandez4904]

very informative video and thanks! does the same bad smells too when used? thanks in advance!

[@spidiq8]

Tomas Jefferson Hernandez Yes, it will still smell and you need to spray in a ventilated area with a respirator but using an airbrush makes the overspray much more controllable. The nature of the solvent is what makes it smell and why it's hazardous, all you're venting off when you decant it is the propellant gas in there.

[@tomasjeffersonhernandez4904]

thank you! you are very helpful :) more power to you :)

[@spidiq8]

Tomas Jefferson Hernandez . You're welcome.

[@CarlosSoto-kf9qb]

Thanks for the video; I am ready to try it. Two question though; what would I use to clean my airbrush, if I use automotive paint?..... and, is there a way to make those paints transparent?

[@spidiq8]

Cellulose/lacquer thinner to clean. Apologies I didn't reply before.

[@bzhmaddog]

Would it work with a regular paint (gravity) gun ? Too liquid ? I have some stencil painting job to do but I haven't been able to get good results using the can directly so I was wondering if I could use the paint with my compressed air gun.

[@spidiq8]

It would but you wouldn't want to use a large nozzle or flood the surface as the paint is very thinned.

[@donmichaelcorbin4417]

Great tutorial! Going to try this on a couple of cans of Great Stuff Crack Filler that I've had on the work truck for awhile. The damned nozzles broke clean off leaving me with a full can, but no way of using it. Now I can! Thanks!

[@spidiq8]

Glad to help, just take care of the can edges if it needs scooping out and won't pour out.

[@rider660r]

Have done this countless times over the decades with WD40,penetrating oil,brake cleaner etc when they either decide to die (don't have enough propellant to start with,sometimes they're defective off the shelf) or when the nozzle broke. Put the hole closer to the nozzle so I can just shake it on the part/s.Or with ones like WD40 and brake cleaner I'll put them in a plastic pump bottle because they evaporate.

[@RYDENROAM72]

spidiq i was wondering if you could degas it then mix it afterwards in a paint can. im looking at doing this tip but using an air gun to paint my truck.

[@spidiq8]

Riden Roam You could but being much thinner than you'd mix paint for a spray gun you'd use a lot of rattle cans, it'd be much cheaper to get paint and thinner from a paint specialist if you have a compressor and spray gun.

[@joedejesus6363]

This video was very informative and useful. I'm glad I stumbled on your channel. Now I know how to degas an aerosol can, and combine the colors so this way I can get the exact colors I want. Thank you. So the paint that was decanted it be used in an "Air Brush" without thinning it ?

[@spidiq8]

Glad it helped and yes. It's thin enough from the can to airbrush.

[@bennyfattt3674]

Just curious about the nozzle there inside ; must it really be disposed off or could it still be reused for somthing else?This brings back old memories of the well shaken cola can pranks. So must do this right.Thanks for this Video -Cheers

[@spidiq8]

Do you mean the spray nozzle on the aerosol? If so I guess it could but as it works due to pressure it would need to be fitted into a pressurised and airtight container somehow. For model kit use however, a standard auto shop aerosol has too heavy a spray pattern, if you check the Tamiya aerosols you'll note that they have a much finer nozzle and atomisation.

[@thewaltbrownellchannel9318]

The tube in the spray can also fit my airbrush.

[@scruffyk7741]

I just decanted a full 400ml can of paint and there was only 200ml of paint this doesn't sound right to me as i understand the 400ml marked on the can means there's 400ml of sprayable paint, i understand there is thinners mixed with the paint but there's no way half the 400ml volume would evaporate in the few minutes it took to decant and measure it, any ideas ? cheers Dave

[@spidiq8]

Scruffy K Unfortunately not. TBH I've never measured the volume when I've decanted but like you I'd expect 400ml to mean 400ml of liquid paint/thinner mix, admittedly, if cellulose based some of the thinners will flash off but I wouldn't expect that to equal half the volume. I'd be interested to know too if anyone has any insight on this?

[@Bluestouse86]

It’s like a bag of chips! Haha

[@homunculous007]

Thanks for the great video. The method works well. How about a simple beer can opener to put the large hole in the can. It grips the raised top edge of the can and easily cuts a hole in both sides of the can near the top for pouring and allowing air in. Cheers.

[@spidiq8]

homunculous007 That's not something we have in the UK, all beer cans for sale here have ring pulls. Glad the video was useful to you though.

[@mr.b4773]

Have plan to paint my helmet using airbrush is this ok to be use?

[@spidiq8]

Assuming you mean motorbike helmet? If so I personally wouldn't recommend using any solvent based paint to spray a helmet you're going to use on the road or track as there's a chance it could affect the integrity of the plastic shell. Helmets differ in material and manufacture greatly but though I've had a painted helmet myself in the past I certainly wouldn't chance it now. For a show helmet, sure.

[@mr.b4773]

Thanks, but I'll do it anyway because airbrush paint is expensive and just the little one. 😁😁

[@dwightstewart7181]

Why? What's so great about this aerosol paint that you absolutely must have it (to go through all that) over the many paints already designed for airbrushing or easily converted for airbrushing?

[@spidiq8]

Dwight Stewart Because often you can get automotive cellulose paints cheaply. Because sometimes you want a vehicle specific colour and a can of vehicle a colour from halfords is cheaper than a thimble full from gravity or wherever. Because you might have some laying around? For me because rattle can primer is better than any acrylic primer for models and most available model primers. But you don't have to, this video is for anyone who wants to know how to.

[@dwightstewart7181]

spidiq8 .. Thanks for the reply. Trying to learn, so asked a question. They sell vehicle specific colors in small touch up bottles, spray cans, and larger containers for commercial body shop applications. Or you can just mix it yourself. As for the rest, I'll take your word for it.

[@Falney]

Why would you want to? Honest question. I mean. Isn't this an expensive way to get paint?

[@spidiq8]

Not at all. It depends on the paint, some colours are impossible to get in model paint ranges for example and airbrushing affords much better control over the spraying.

[@phillipconnor7996]

Had no idea paints were that thin. Can see I'm trying to paint with much to thick paints.

[@spidiq8]

For airbrush you need to aim for a 'milk consistency' best way to understand is visually. Put some milk in a little shot glass or medicine cup and swirl it. Mix with a brush and observe it. Then thin your paint so it mimics it.

[@chelle7_myblueeyeddog]

Do you have any advice if I just needed a small amount of paint, could I just spray it on plastic plate and then use the paint with a brush? With the gas in it would it mess up the Integrity of the paint and be too tacky? Just wondering. Trying to fix something that I can't really mask off very well and just need a small amount of paint

[@spidiq8]

For dispensing a very small amount you can spray short bursts into a plastic cup or try taping a straw to the nozzle and direct that into a cup. The downside is that it's messy and unpredictable and accordingly you should do this outside with old clothes and some measure of protective gear. At least safety glasses just in case as pressurised paint can go everywhere. The principals for use are the same.

[@TheDronzDr]

What if your using Acrylic paint can. Do you still have to worry about gases?

[@spidiq8]

Absolutely yes, an aerosol has to de gas if you're decanting it regardless of the paint type. They all have propellant.

[@TheDronzDr]

spidiq8 Thanks

[@Eric-ve9pc]

Perhaps turn upside down , depress nozzle to degas

[@spidiq8]

If you want to sit there for a good while getting cramp in your finger and inhaling those fumes you could but you're cutting it open to empty it anyway

[@Eric-ve9pc]

@@spidiq8 gently set the nozzle on the table....... nevermind you all ready know.😆

[@chaynJ]

Will the can explode if not a small hole or something?

[@spidiq8]

Absolutely not. A can will only explode if left sealed and heated rapidly. A large hole however will expel the propellant quickly and some of the paint with it. A small hole allows a controlled escape.

[@chaynJ]

@@spidiq8 woah okay thanks bruh 🔥 🤜🏿🤛🏻 makes sense💚

[@lindalee7083]

Very precise explanation! I needed this tip today. Thanks a bunch.

[@spidiq8]

Linda Lee You're very welcome, glad it helped.

[@UzunKamis]

You can also hold it upside down and press till it finishes...

[@spidiq8]

You can indeed.

[@Yves95128]

Yes, but this technique is nice when the can is clogged internally.

[@spidiq8]

@@Yves95128 Also a great point.

[@vickikgibson9470]

very good information and the best way to decant a paint can...but I do like the idea of the can opener mentioned below:) Cheers buddy!

[@spidiq8]

Glad it was useful, I liked the can opener idea till I recently tried it and it didn't work! See my most recent videos for that, admittedly it might just be my cheap can openerbut no go for me there.

[@vickikgibson9470]

spidiq8 hmm, what kind did u use? I like the old style hand ones one used on cans years ago. Those never seem to fail to open anything;:) I will have to give it a test and find out. Thanks for the reply buddy! Have a great evening. Oh don't forget a mask, that stuff is hard on the brain:( take care!

[@spidiq8]

+Vicki k Gibson oh it's a generic cheap ass model :) I don't go in for fancy tin openers, a better one may well work for this.

[@HuwFerris-John]

Once it is degassed is there still a strong smell? Could it be used indoors once degassed?

[@spidiq8]

Yes there's an odour like any solvent based paint. It can be used indoors but like any paint spraying a respirator and extraction system is recommended. Even if it's easier based acrylic. Breathing in the particles is bad for you.

[@HuwFerris-John]

Thank you for the reply. The only reason I ask is because I have birds and acrylic seems to clear pretty quick with the extraction but wasn't sure on solvent based. It is in a separate room however.

[@spidiq8]

@@HuwFerris-John They should be okay in a separate room but do take care with any aerosols and birds or other animals.

[@jeffreyhickam1459]

I am trying to clear coat my car, am I able to do this to clear coat and roll it on so I get a nice even layer?? Thanks and keep up the awesome content.

[@spidiq8]

Glad it's helpful, thanks. I think you'd struggle getting an even smooth layer by brushing or rolling but you could do that then flat and buff it once cured.

[@jeffreyhickam1459]

I struggle to use spray paint cans correctly, I always get splotches or tiger stripes. I painted my whole car, waited, then tried to clear coat with terrable results. I have 3 cans left, if that doesn't work I will just sand it & repaint with no clear coat this time. Thanks for your reply much appreciated!

[@spidiq8]

@@jeffreyhickam1459 Yes it's something that you get better with with practise but being so thin it's easy to overload and get runs. In that case you likely can't get a worse finish by trying to paint it by roller or brush but provided you do it under cover and away from wind once cured a good flatting and running compound could get you a decent finish.

[@stixstudios3380]

Thank you. This is exactly what I needed to know. Cheers.

[@jeffreywong5112]

How long will it last? Do I need to consume it once I transfered it?

[@spidiq8]

After degassing, it will last month's in an airtight jar.

[@jeffreywong5112]

@@spidiq8 cool. Thanks!

[@TuongNguyen-mx9nu]

Thanks for the vid! Can't believe I didn't think of this myself.

[@jenniferkline4196]

Thank you for this video I just subscribed ❤ I just got a little makeup airbrush to try out on my paint art. I don't do modeling,or cars etc.. I do planets, moons,etc.. on canvas,glass, wood,etc.. anything really lol I do have a couple of questions if you don't mind? Is this safe to use indoors once you get the aerosol out? I hope so because I love spray painting &I live in Ohio in America and it's only warm here about 4 months out of the year🙄 I want to spray paint all year round indoors lol However before I try it I want to make sure that It is so I don't waste my spray paint. I also wondered will this spray paint in the airbrush sprayer & come out closely like it would if I use my spray paint for my planets and moons? Again thank you so much for this video. I am now off to look through your other videos ❤

[@spidiq8]

Ideally with any paint at all being sprayed you need a face mask and extraction as the paint is being atomised. With solvent based paint as most aerosol cans are you need a solvent rated filter face mask unless you have someone to scrape you off the ceiling from getting high on the fumes. You can buy quite affordable extraction units with a hose though or if you're doing quick paint sessions and have a room dedicated to your paint work you can paint in there, (with a mask) then open a window to let it air afterwards and avoid entering. Even water based acrylics being sprayed aren't 'safe' per se, as you're potentially breathing in atomised plastic particles.

[@jenniferkline4196]

@@spidiq8 Thank you so much for this information and yeah I do not have anyone that would want to scrape me off the ceiling lol I certainly don't want to breathe it in I just didn't know if decanting It would bring down the sullivans and a chemicals at all just so that I'm aware too continue to do it outdoors even if I try it and an airbrush gun. I appreciate the information I love learning everything I can about spray paint art that I do planets moons stars nothing at all close to being an artist just a hobby and a stress reliever so I do appreciate the knowledge ❤️

[@Gumi_wuewuewue]

Are all decanted spray paints airbrush ready?

[@spidiq8]

Yes they are, they're typically thinner than you'd use in most cases but ideal for use in small nozzle/needle sets with detail painting.

[@Gumi_wuewuewue]

@@spidiq8 if used in a AB, Do i need to use lacquer thinner to clean the AB and thin the paint? (Since most cans use lacquer based)

[@spidiq8]

@@Gumi_wuewuewue Yes you do. Even if the can says acrylic or enamel the chances are it's lacquer based solvent.

[@Gumi_wuewuewue]

@@spidiq8 thanks!!!! Most of the spray paints available near me says that they are lacquer based acrylic. Thank you for the tips!

[@spidiq8]

@@Gumi_wuewuewue You're welcome

[@Wooster77]

Can this decanted paint be applied with a brush or is it too thin for that and only good for airbrushing?

[@spidiq8]

Wooster It's only really suitable for spraying as it's very thinned. You could brush it but it would take several very thin applications

[@Wooster77]

spidiq8 Thanks for replying.

[@vinfish4697]

I was literally just thinking about this yesterday and this video just showed up so I just subscribed

[@spidiq8]

Vinfish F Cool thanks, hope it's useful

[@karasu-icarus]

Wow ...when i see the price of small airbrush bootle color comparing to one spray can color....with one spray can you can make more than 10 small airbrush color bootle ...thanks a lot i will by a lot of empty bottle now to do it . best regards from France ;)

[@spidiq8]

Yes model paint prices are very high when you look at volume. This is a great way to get specific colours also, for example if you are making a model car you can get the actual paint colour from an auto supply store rather than trying to find a hobby colour match.

[@jameseliot1134]

Can I do this with Plastidip? My cab is blocked

[@spidiq8]

Absolutely yes, you can decant it the same way. What I'm not sure is whether plastidip will be thin enough to airbrush and given its nature it might begin to cure once decanted, the only way to tell is decant it, bottle it, let it degas and see if it remains liquid once capped.

[@jameseliot1134]

spidiq8 thanks mate I’ll see how it goes!

[@spidiq8]

@@jameseliot1134 Would you let me know please, it will come in handy for anyone else who might want to know.

[@jameseliot1134]

spidiq8 I done it and it worked I’m just unsure on airbrushing it in terms of cleaning it, seems thin enough to airbrush with a 0.5 as that’s what I use mainly for my props

[@spidiq8]

@@jameseliot1134 Thanks for the update, I imagine it should clean up with cellulose thinner? Just check that it stays liquid in a sealed jar and then leave a little on something to start setting and wipe it with a thinners dialled cloth or tissue and see if it removes it.

[@Jimgoodwin846]

Wow, what a good idea. All I have ever done was throw the cans with plugged or lost nozzles away. At first when I watched this video, I wondered, why would anyone want to do this...actually it’s a great idea. Thanks for the insights. Now, I’m going to go check all of my half full paint cans. 🤔 hahaha.

[@spidiq8]

Jim Goodwin Glad I could help you out. Definitely don't throw them out, they'll keep in a sealed jar for a long time and are airbrush ready.

[@asonmiller556]

I'm always looking for old paint.

[@jan-martinulvag1962]

you did not have to shake it, you could stir it after opening it

[@spidiq8]

Jan-Martin Ulvåg That's very true.

[@petergriffin383]

Darrrrr

[@asimkhan4733]

I’m curious, is it safe to airbrush spray paints indoors?

[@spidiq8]

With common sense yes. Any sprayed paint needs a mask to protect breathing in particulates, even water based acrylics, you don't want to breathe in the paint. Solvent based paints ideally need a booth with extractor to vent fumes as well but a well ventilated room that you evacuate after spraying, (with mask), if only done occassionally should be ok.

[@jimmychadwick8126]

Thanks. I plan to de-gas a can of WD-40 so I’ll be able to have liquid that I can apply with a brush to various things: gardening tools, and so on. Good video. BTW: Do you know that WD-40 needs shaking? It will stratify if let sit, and then you have two layers of different stuff. It’s actually stated on the cans that they should be shaken before use, but who ever would read the instructions on a can of WD-40?

[@spidiq8]

Jimmy Chadwick Glad it helped, re the shaking I didn't know that, interesting thanks. Though I always shake aerosols before spraying out of habit, even deodorant.

[@PeterNebelung]

Why do it in such a dangerous way? Turn the can upside down, with the cap on. Drill a tiny hole in the bottom and put a penny over it. Let it sit til it's depressurized. Tape the hole or put your thumb over it, and shake well. Cut the bottom off with a can opener and decant. No sharp edges to deal with. I use a #77 drill in a pinvise. Works just fine. Done it more than a dozen times.

[@spidiq8]

There's nothing dangerous about it. The base is stable, the cap less so. it only leaked because I was daft enough to shake it too much thinking it had degassed more. I tried the can opener after it being mentioned by someone a long time ago, it didn't touch the base of the can at all. Perhaps can material differs, perhaps UK can openers aren't as gung ho as other countries can openers? I don't know but this method works fine. Have done this now more times than I care to count.

[@HeronMarkedBlade-ef7zz]

My thanks, you saved me a load of money!

[@spidiq8]

You are welcome!

[@parowozy]

Can I paint with hand brush? Or paint is to thin?

[@spidiq8]

The paint is very thinned but yes you could, you'd need to apply a few coats for good coverage and clean your brush with lacquer/cellulose thinner so would need synthetic bristle brushes.

[@grumpykits9238]

Like this method better than the straw method. Thanks fer thinking outside the box.

[@spidiq8]

Thanks, I find this way is so much neater, less noxious and generally less wasteful also

[@Av987]

Whats the straw method?

[@hafizx1018]

Av987 you attach a straw to the nozzle and the end of the straw goes into another container. Kind of like a pipe transferring water something like that

[@mango484]

Says thinking outside the box, but harvests paint from a box

[@filmtajm35]

Very good video and instructions. Thank you for sharing.

[@spidiq8]

Thanks. Glad it was useful.

[@stoots1000]

How long will the paint stay "good" once you do this?

[@spidiq8]

As long as it stay capped after de gassing like any other paint.

[@patrickcanter2831]

Super video. Thanks so much.. It's exactly what I needed for my next project.

[@spidiq8]

Patrick Canter Glad it's useful to you.

[@johnr.patient7548]

I just get a can of carburetor cleaner take the spray tip and the straw that fits in it. It fits on most paint cans and you can spray it right into a cup. I do it all the time with zero Mess👍

[@richardb2382]

Have you tried this on Tamiya sized cans

[@spidiq8]

Richard Broadley No, but I guarantee it'll work the same, an aerosol is an aerosol.

[@richardb2382]

spidiq8 Was thinking there may be more paint leakage as paint will be closer to piercing point. Tried one and I was right. Paint sprayed out the hole

[@spidiq8]

Richard Broadley ok, I've never tried a Tamiya can to be fair but that's because they're expensive for what they are, the theory should still be sound though, there's got to be a certain volume of propellant to fluids. Are you sure it was left to settle long enough?

[@ukemaxxer]

Yep, put it in my spray booth and came back following day to drill hole. Used a knife so I could stop as soon as gas started to escape. Was easy enough to stop paint escaping, just put my finger over hole to restrict it and was ok. Used the Tamiya as that's what I had to hand. But now I've got 100ml of TS47 to use in my airbrush.

[@richardb2382]

Reply came from my other account

[@hobbyrookiee]

Very nice method... thank you for this sir...

[@spidiq8]

Gunpla ROOK Thank you, hope it's useful to you.

[@TKs3DPrints]

i would have let the can stand upside down. then you can use a can opener on the bottom of the tin :)

[@spidiq8]

Turenkarn's 3D Tanks I tried this of you check my later videos, it was unsuccessful. The can opener didn't work.

[@rethonn]

Thanks for a good video it was really clear and helpfull

[@Yves95128]

Exactly what I was looking for, Thank you.

[@Flatters46]

Thanks a lot! A very useful video.