How to Harden Latex Paint

How to Tint Epoxy Paint
Written By
Alex Smith
Alex Smith
Published: Jan 16, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

There are several ways to do this, but all require very little effort.

Things You Will Need

  • Kitty litter
  • Sawdust
  • Mixing stick
  • Cement
  • Mixing bucket
  • Latex paint hardener
  1. Let the paint can sit open until it dries naturally if there is less than an inch of paint at the bottom. This will take a few days, less if the weather is hot. This technique only works for small amounts as large quantities will form a skin on top, preventing the paint trapped beneath from hardening.

  2. Mix an equal amount of absorbent kitty litter or sawdust into the paint. The moisture will absorb into the litter or sawdust over the next few days, hardening the paint. Leave the lid off of the paint as it hardens.

  3. Mix cement into the paint. You will need approximately 10 pounds of cement for every gallon of paint, along with a bucket large enough to mix the two. This solution is more expensive, but is much faster. The paint will harden within an hour.

  4. Mix a store-bought latex paint hardener into the paint. These products come in small pouches or bottles and can be added directly to the can of paint. They work quickly with no need for separate mixing buckets.

The Drip Cap

  • Latex paint is used for interior and exterior painting.
  • This is not only bad for the environment, it is illegal in many areas.
  • This technique only works for small amounts as large quantities will form a skin on top, preventing the paint trapped beneath from hardening.
  • Mix a store-bought latex paint hardener into the paint.

Check out this related video from Homesteady on Youtube.

Photo Credits

yellow paint image by Jennifer Griner from Fotolia.com

yellow paint image by Jennifer Griner from Fotolia.com

Alex Smith

Alex Smith began writing in 2006 and brings a combination of education and humor to various websites. He holds a Master of Arts in theater and works as a professional makeup and special-effects artist.

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