How can I thin dried latex paint?

[TNDemo]

I am putting up a new curtain rod in my bedroom and now need to touch up the paint where the old one came off. I found the can of paint and there was only about a half inch of it left in the bottom of the can. It has dried completely. I looked on the can and the only thing it said to thin with was water. I have added hot water to it and am hoping it will dissolve with some time today but nothing so far. Any ideas on how to get just enough of this to cover the two spots I need to cover? I don't want to have to go get more mixed if I don't have to.

[alittlelark]

1. Water will not thin out dried latex paint.

I would suggest pouring out the water, drying the paint w/paper towels, and adding 1/8 cup or so of paint thinner. You will get some of the paint to dissolve - hopefully enough for you touch-up.

[Whoa_Nelly]

2. Go to the store and get a pint of the same color

The color mix should be on the lid label or somewhere on the can.

Taking the time to try and revive dried paint in a can isn't worth the effort.

If you do buy a pint of new paint to use, after you are done, reseal tightly and store upside down. This keeps the paint from creating a seal to the surface of the paint. It also makes the lighter part of the paint components rise to the top so that when you go to use it again, it's easier to shake it before opening to to remix rather than opening and stirring, which doesn't always mix back together as well.

[LostinVA]

5. Listen to Whoa Nelly -- she knows what she's talking about

She helped me correct a horrible painting mistake.

[Whoa_Nelly]

7. Hey there, LostinVA!

Thanks for the support re: helping you out. Glad to hear it worked out :)

Got some pics of that finished kitchen?

PM me if you need my email again. :hi:

[LostinVA]

8. I do! I'll have to send them to you! The cabinets were painted

"iced espresso" (behr color) with brushed nickel hardware. Looks 100% better. Next: new tile. Then, in the summer, new counters!

[politicat]

3. Is it a sunny room or is the paint old?

Getting new paint in the same color will not match if that's the case. However, there is no way to really revive dried latex - once it dries, it's done.

Take in the original paint can and a chip of the paint as it looks on the walls to help match it. Most paint stores can handle this.

[leftofthedial]

4. it would require the heat of the sun

and a large supply of undried paint

and a time machine

and even then it wouldn't work.

buy new paint.

[Maddy McCall]

6. YOu can't.