The Wrong Technique

• Many do-it-yourselfers grasp the sides of 1-gallon cans and 5-gallon buckets while pouring paint. This is a common cause of accidental spills due to drops. If you attempt to lift a heavy 5-gallon bucket of paint in this manner, you could suffer a long-lasting back injury.
  
  

Correct Pouring Technique

• It doesn't matter whether you're pouring paint from a small 1-gallon can or a large 5-gallon container; the pouring technique for each is the same. To prevent injury and ugly spills, grasp the handle with your left hand and lift the container. Position the container above the paint tray or painter's pot. Use your right hand to grasp the bottom of the container at the side nearest to you. Lift the bottom so the container tips forward, allowing a thin stream of paint to flow over and descend into the tray or pot. Lower the bottom of the bucket to straighten the container and stop the flow of paint.
  
  

Precautions

• Even the most skilled, experienced painters end up with paint drips and splatters every now and then. Prevent accidental stains by covering floors with canvas drop cloths. Never attempt to pour paint without protecting the underlying surface, or you could end up with permanent stains.
  
  

Considerations

• Even if you use perfect pouring technique, you're likely to end up with splatters due to splashing if you pour the paint too quickly. For best results, pour slowly and maintain a thin, steady stream of paint. Do not forcefully dump the paint into the bucket, or the liquid may splash up and create a mess.