I never start a decorating project without this £9 Amazon buy by my side — this is why you need to add one to your tool collection

When it's time to begin a new paint project, you probably reach for your roller tray along with your rollers and brushes. And why not? These are typically what you find at your local hardware store, and they do a decent job. But, there’s a better alternative that won’t break the bank, and once you start using them, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without.

It all started when I was talking with a painter and decorator friend of mine, just trying to pick up tips for my next paint project. That’s when they said I should try a paint scuttle when painting a room. Unsure what to buy, they suggested I look on Amazon, saying there was plenty of good stuff on there.

After reading the reviews, I chose the ProDec Plastic Paint Scuttle Bucket as my first option, and I have been using them ever since. As a DIYer, I found the 10-litre medium bucket to be an ideal fit for my nine-inch rollers, and it has the capacity to hold plenty of paint. However, it's not the only paint scuttle/kettle I use (more on this later), but it's a great starting point.

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What is a paint scuttle?

If you’ve used a standard flat roller, you’re likely familiar with the common issues associated with it. Paint spray can easily shoot over the edge of the tray, depositing paint on surfaces where it shouldn’t be. You’ll find yourself refilling more often than you'd like. And it’s easy to accidentally spill paint, especially when you’re up a ladder, and even step on the tray if left on the floor.

A paint scuttle effectively addresses these issues. Its deeper design provides a larger capacity, so you spend less time refilling and more time painting. The raised edges on the inside help control the amount of paint on a roller, and the measurement markings ensure you know how much paint you’ve added. Useful for knowing how much paint you need for the next coat.

However, what I really like about the ProDec Plastic Paint Scuttle Bucket is the curved/rounded profile at the bottom of the scuttle. This ensures you don’t leave paint in those square edges you get in some other paint buckets. The curve of the roller fits neatly with the flow of the scuttle.

Where to use a paint scuttle and paint kettle

It's difficult to imagine life without a paint scuttle or kettle when I take on a new paint project. A scuttle is the perfect companion when painting a ceiling or wall. You can add enough paint for at least a first coat. Stick the scuttle on the floor, roll the roller up the side, and you'll be amazed how quickly your walls and ceiling are covered. Combine with an extension pole (like this Harris Seriously Good Aluminium Extension Pole from Amazon), and you won’t have to bend over or reach to paint those hard-to-reach areas.

When working on the details, such as corners or trim, a paint kettle is my go-to tool. They're smaller, lightweight and easier to hold in one hand. You can use it with a brush or a mini roller, or even keep both in your kettle at the same time. This makes sure you have control over what you are doing and allows you to concentrate on the task at hand.

Simply put, I wouldn’t be without either of these tools when painting, and if you haven’t had the pleasure of using a paint scuttle or kettle, I recommend getting one now. You won’t regret it.

A new paint scuttle or kettle is the perfect companion for painting. Discover how to utilise them effectively with our guides on painting a wall, painting skirting boards and painting a hallway. Enjoy.