The Double-Duty Kitchen Tool That Is Perfect for Paint Projects

And a professional DIYer agrees

By

Published on 04/06/23

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

Sieve Tools of the Trade — Photo: Amazon / Image Treatment: The Spruce

The world of home decor is vast, and we’re constantly amazed by the designers, creators, and creatives who cross our paths. In an effort to learn more about the innovative eyes behind the scenes, we’ve launched a series that explores the sanity-saving tools, products, and services that keep our favorite designers and decorators focused on the job at hand. Welcome to Tools of the Trade.

If you’re tackling a paint project at home, you might find it to be a little overwhelming. Painting straight from a can isn’t always as simple or straightforward as it might seem. The absolute worst is when you realize tiny bits of unwanted debris have made their way into your paint—and, worst of all, onto your walls.

Luckily, Jo Smith, the marketing manager for the online retailer Toolstation, revealed a great hack that solves this problem. Best of all? It involves a common (and inexpensive) kitchen accessory that you probably already own.

Read on to learn about the hack Smith first discovered on TikTok and confirmed with pro painters and decorators.

Toolstation Marketing Manager's paint hack with a kitchen sieve — Toolstation

Jo Smith: I recently discovered a great painting trick. Using the kind of metal sieve you’d find in the kitchen, you can strain interior paint to remove any unwanted particles. It helps to achieve a perfectly smooth finish with none of those irritating ‘bits’ that you sometimes find mixed up in there and end up on your walls.

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Bed Bath & Beyond

JS: It’s an item that’s fairly cheap and easy to pick up. Stocked in most supermarkets, you can usually pick up a sieve for a couple of dollars. Also, unlike hosiery tights—which were traditionally used to strain paint—a metal sieve can be washed and used time and time again.

JS: Before I start painting, I arrange the sieve over my scuttle [or paint can]. Then, I simply pour the paint through, disposing of any debris collected in the sieve.

JS: I first spotted this hack on TikTok. I then reached out to some highly experienced painters and decorators we work with to see if it was legitimate. Turns out, it is! One of them said it’s an essential part of his prep and has been for decades.

JS: Anytime I do any painting, I’ll be using a sieve to remove particles and achieve a smooth finish—especially if I’m using an old tin of paint.

JS: It helps to achieve a perfectly smooth finish, the first time around.

JS: At Toolstation, we’re lucky to work with both professionals and DIYers. This hack is something many professional painters and decorators have sworn by for years but until now, not many amateur DIYers have known about it.

JS: When choosing a sieve, I’d advise going for something sturdy. Paint can be heavy which means there’s a lot of weight exerted on the sieve.

JS: To clean the sieve after use, simply wash it with warm soapy water or brush cleaner. And, make sure your paintbrush is clean too. There’s no point straining your paint if there are bits and pieces clinging to your brush.

The One Tool You Need for Any Remodeling Project, Says a Designer