Paint can dry out quickly, so be sure to store it properly and tackle brushes (and reusable trays) right away. Roller sleeves should be discarded after finishing up a project.
Store: Transfer leftover paint to smaller airtight plastic containers; paint kept in opened cans is prone to drying out.
Label: Mark each container with the paint color and room it was used in. Keep the paint on hand for touch-ups.
Wash: Rinse each brush with lukewarm water. Then add a few drops of liquid dish soap and continue rinsing. Dislodge any dried bits of paint with a metal brush comb. Wrap the bristles in paper towels to maintain their shape, and lay flat to dry. You can also wash out paint trays with warm, soapy water and allow to dry completely before storing.
Paint can be used to draw your eye through a vantage point like the one at left, where each room visible is given a different shade. Note how the bookcase in the foreground is painted in yet another harmonious hue. When going this route, it’s wise to consult a color wheel to find complementary colors.