As a painting contractor, 1 use a lot of paint in 5-gal. buckets. Bits of joint compound and debris from the job site inevitably find their way into the paint, so I strain my paints each day before applying them. I could buy strainers, but I prefer to make my own (see drawing).
Using an old plastic paint bucket with a lid, I lay some window screen across the open bucket top and push it downward with my fist to form the strainer. Next I cut a big hole in the lid, leaving just the lock ring. Now I snap on the lock ring, and cut the assembled strainer away from the bucket. Presto! I’ve got a strainer that perfectly fits 5-gal. buckets.
Bob Simpson, Cottage City, MD
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Get some of you wife's (or girlfriend's) old pantyhose or knee-high stockings. Much finer straining and just toss them afterwards.