I can’t be the only one with a stash of half-used paint cans sitting in the garage, right? After every project, I tell myself I’ll use them someday, then totally forget.
But recently, I decided to actually do something with them, and it’s been surprisingly fun. A pop of color here, a refreshed planter there… suddenly, those dusty cans are full of potential again.
If you’ve got leftover paint and no clue what to do with it, don’t let it dry out just yet. These creative, easy ideas might just turn your forgotten paint stash into something beautiful and practical.
1. Create A Colorful Accent Wall
Got several small cans with similar colors? Mix them together for a custom shade perfect for an accent wall! You’ll need less paint than a full room requires, making this ideal for leftovers.
If you’re feeling extra creative, try an ombré effect by gradually adding white paint to your mixture as you move up the wall. Your guests will never guess this designer look came from paint that almost got tossed out!
2. Paint Garden Pots And Planters
Terracotta pots are cheap but often boring. A splash of leftover paint transforms them into personalized garden accessories! You can create patterns with painter’s tape or go freehand if you’re feeling bold.
For outdoor pots, make sure to use exterior paint or seal with a clear waterproof coating. Your plants will look twice as nice in containers that match your home’s color scheme or garden theme.
3. Update Old Furniture Pieces
That scratched nightstand or faded bookshelf? Perfect candidates for leftover paint! Even a small amount can refresh a chair, side table, or picture frame.
You might not have enough for a large dresser, but smaller pieces need very little. Sand lightly first, then apply thin coats for best results.
Who needs expensive new furniture when you can custom-color the pieces you already own? Plus, painted furniture adds personality no store-bought item can match.
4. Design Custom Wall Art
Canvas from the dollar store plus leftover paint equals instant art! You don’t need to be Picasso to create abstract designs, geometric patterns, or simple color blocks that look store-bought.
Try dipping yarn in paint and dragging it across canvas for a cool effect. Or use painter’s tape to create sharp lines between colors.
Sometimes the simplest designs make the biggest statement in home decor, and nobody will know your masterpiece cost practically nothing.
5. Make Unique Door Stoppers
Rocks from your garden can become functional art with a coat of paint! Large, smooth stones make perfect doorstops when painted in fun colors or patterns. Kids love helping with this simple project.
For extra durability, apply a clear sealer after the paint dries. You could even paint them to look like animals or monsters with googly eyes glued on top!
These colorful creations work great as paperweights too when you’re not keeping doors propped open.
6. Refresh Your Mailbox
Your mailbox makes a first impression before visitors even reach your door. A fresh coat of paint can instantly boost curb appeal!
Choose a color that complements your home’s exterior for a coordinated look. While you’re at it, paint the post too if you have enough leftover paint.
You might also add your house number in a contrasting color. The mail carrier will appreciate your newly visible, eye-catching mailbox almost as much as you will!
7. Color-Code Storage Containers
Plain storage bins become organized masterpieces with a splash of color! Paint lids different colors to create a visual filing system – blue for winter clothes, green for gardening supplies, red for holiday decorations.
Clear plastic bins work best because you can still see contents while enjoying your color scheme. If painting plastic, use a primer made for that surface first.
Your garage or closet will look magazine-worthy, and you’ll never grab the wrong bin again!
8. Jazz Up Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
Boring cabinet knobs and handles? Paint them! This tiny detail makes a surprisingly big impact on your kitchen’s look. Remove hardware first, then apply paint in thin layers for best results.
For extra durability, seal with clear polyurethane after the paint dries completely. You can create a coordinated look or go wild with different colors for each drawer.
When friends ask where you found such cute hardware, you’ll love telling them your thrifty secret!
9. Craft Personalized Gift Tags
Cardboard scraps become charming gift tags with a coat of leftover paint! Cut shapes from cereal boxes or shipping packages, paint them solid colors, then add recipients’ names with marker once dry.
Punch a hole at the top and thread with ribbon or twine. Your presents will stand out under the tree or at birthday parties with these handmade touches.
Plus, it’s a great way to use tiny amounts of paint that wouldn’t work for bigger projects.
10. Spice Up Your Staircase
Painting just the risers (vertical parts) of your stairs creates major impact with minimal paint! Choose one color or create a rainbow effect using different leftover colors for each riser.
For a subtle look, paint risers a shade darker than your wall color. Want something bolder? Try patterns like stripes or stenciled designs.
Your staircase will go from functional to focal point, and guests will think you hired a professional designer.
11. Design A Playful Hopscotch Path
Your driveway or sidewalk becomes instant fun with a painted hopscotch game! Use exterior paint leftovers to create this classic childhood activity right outside your door.
Kids will love having their own permanent play space. Add other games too if you have enough paint – four square, tic-tac-toe, or a racetrack for toy cars.
Just make sure to use exterior paint that can withstand foot traffic and weather. Your house will quickly become the neighborhood favorite!
12. Revamp Worn Baseboards
Scuffed baseboards age your whole room! Leftover wall paint works perfectly for touching up these often-overlooked areas.
You’ll be amazed how much fresher your space looks with clean, bright baseboards. If you’re feeling adventurous, try painting baseboards a contrasting color from your walls.
This designer trick makes rooms feel taller and more defined. Even a half-quart of paint goes a long way on skinny baseboards, making this perfect for using up remnants.
13. Transform Your Garage Floor
Leftover exterior paint can give your garage floor a major upgrade! Create a simple border or go all out with a checkerboard pattern.
The concrete soaks up paint nicely if you clean it thoroughly first. For high-traffic areas, consider adding a clear sealer on top for durability.
Even just painting the area right inside the garage door creates a welcoming entrance. Your neighbors will wonder how you afforded such a fancy garage makeover!
14. Customize Your Cornhole Boards
Plain wooden cornhole game boards beg for personality! Leftover paint lets you create team colors, family crests, or fun patterns on this backyard favorite.
The flat surface is perfect for using up paint remnants. Apply a base coat, then add stripes, circles, or even hand-painted designs if you’re artistic.
Finish with outdoor polyurethane to protect your masterpiece from flying bean bags and weather. Game night just got a serious upgrade that shows off your team spirit!
15. Highlight Interior Door Edges
Want a subtle pop of color that surprises and delights? Paint just the edges of interior doors! This unexpected detail catches the eye when doors are open and disappears when closed.
Choose a bright accent color that complements your room’s color scheme. This trick works especially well in kids’ rooms or creative spaces.
The small surface area means even the tiniest paint leftovers find purpose, and the result looks professionally designed and intentional.
16. Create Matching Picture Frames
Mismatched thrift store frames become a cohesive gallery wall when painted the same color! This project needs very little paint, making it perfect for those nearly-empty cans.
Remove glass and backing before painting for best results. You can create an ombré effect using several similar colors or go bold with contrasting hues.
Your photos and artwork will pop against frames that perfectly complement your decor. Who needs expensive custom framing when you have leftover paint?