When you're finished painting, remove the masking tape within an hour; otherwise paint may stick to the tape and peel away from the wall. If you're concerned that the paint has already dried onto the tape, cut along the corners with a utility knife before removing the tape. If you have to stop in the middle of a project, load your brushes with paint, and wrap them in aluminum foil. Make the foil as airtight as possible. To keep the paint in your roller tray from drying out, place a piece of cardboard on top of the tray, and wrap it in a plastic bag. When you're finished painting, store a small amount of the paint in an airtight jar, and label the jar so you can use it for touch-ups later. Then cut a piece of waxed paper to the size of the bottom of your paint can (figure A), and lay the waxed paper on top of the wet paint before replacing the lid to prevent it from drying out. If you're using latex paint, dispose of any dried paint or paint liners in your household garbage. Oil-based paint waste should be taken to a hazardous-waste facility for disposal. When cleaning roller covers, roll out as much paint as possible before rinsing the covers. Then use a multipurpose painter's tool (figure B) to help clean the roller cover. Clean oil-based paints with a solvent such as paint thinner.
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