Tips on Evenly Mixing Glitter in Wall Paint

Use Paint Glitter

• Glitter is a tricky substance, and while it sticks all over your clothes and the materials you use to mix, it may not stick in your paint. Use a glitter that is specifically made as a paint additive – not a craft glitter for art projects. Glitter additives, such as granite crystals, are made to be compatible with different paints, making it easier to mix, apply and maintain. You can also apply a thin glitter glaze to a previously painted wall for a more defined look.

Measure the Glitter

• It may seem perfectly fine to dump a glitter additive into your paint without worrying about the amount, since you can see the glitter in the mixed paint and get an idea of its saturation. However, if you happen to need a second can of paint or need to touch up a spot later due to an unforeseen accident, it is important to know how much additive per gallon you used the first time around. Use a measuring cup or spoon to deliver the perfect amount of additive every time.

Test It

• Before you paint your entire bedroom or kitchen with glitter-infused paint, test the paint in a small out-of-the-way spot. Performing a quick test allows you to inspect the glitter level once the paint is dry and can alert you to the need for more or less glitter per gallon. Mix a very small amount of paint and glitter for this test so that you do not need to run out for a new can of paint if you accidentally perform a glitter overload. Write down your measurements so you'll have them for later.

Machine Mix

• It is difficult to mix paint by hand, and it is even more difficult to work glitter into the paint and end up with an even coat. If you have an electric drill and a paint mixing attachment, you can do your own thorough mixing before you start painting. Alternatively, you can swing by your local home improvement store and have the store mechanically mix the glitter into the paint. You can perform a quick refresher mix by hand when you are ready to start a project, but the machine mixer will have done most of the work.