4 Easy Ways to Open a Paint Can Like a Pro

1. Use a putty knife
You'll need one that's stiff and not too bendy, like this one. Otherwise, you won't be able to pry the lid off. Slip the front edge of the putty knife under the lip of the can and lift it, moving around the edge of the can until the lid's fully loosened.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver
You're likely to have a flathead screwdriver lying around already. Place the head of the screwdriver in the gap where the lid meets the can and lift up gently. Continue all the way around the can until you can remove the whole lid.
3. Use a painter's 15-in-1 tool
The painter's 15-in-1 tool is an MVP when it comes to painting projects. It can serve as a can opener, a putty knife, a roller scraper, a chisel, a nail puller, and a corner cleaner. For opening a paint can, you'll use the short, flat part of the tool. Place it in the crack between the lid and the can and lift, rotating the can to move around the entire lid.
4. Use a paint can opener
A paint can opener is a great little tool to have around, and at less than a dollar a pop, it's an extremely budget-friendly one, too. Use the flat end to pry the lid from the can, rotating to move around the entire lid. Then, lift the lid away from the can.