Harvesting rattleballs and spray paint

I bought a number of cans of Metalizer from MJ Designs after they were bought out by Michael's - many of these cans were like this from the first time I tried to use them. I always shake the cans before using them to mix the paint and again, always invert them to clear the tube after use. I learned than many moons ago. Other cans were from the local brick 'n' morter who claimed the same thing you just did - if the can isn't working properly it must be because I did something wrong. No returns (and NO future business)! So a few years ago after a discussion right here, we came up with the solution of harvesting the paint and the balls from bad cans.

Snip.....

Safer and tested method:

Much more easier and safer way to unpressurize spray can is to use wire cutters for it. No sawing or drilling that can be hazardous.

Warm up the can with hot water, shake well and warm again.

If you want to use paint that is trapped inside clogged spray can and you can't get the paint out thorough any nozzle. Check the valve without nozzle using rag to protect yourself and enviroment.

Turn the can upside down and cut or punch a hole on to the side of spray can near the concave bottom plate seam with sharp nose wire cutters.

The propellant gas comes out without any or nearly any paint bursting out thorough the cut hole.

After most of the propellant has come out and the can is unpressurised, you can use the wire cutters to enlarge the hole a bit.

After that you can turn the can and pour the paint to jar or container for later use.

You can use the wire cutters to enlarge the hole that you can get the mixing steel or glass balls out from can.

After you have emptied the can, put it down on the floor sideways and use your feet to flatten the can for metal recycling.

Remember that the fresly cut tin is sharp and cut very easily.

Remember ventilation and that the propellant is usually very flammable.

The tool:

AJ.