Help... can't get the lid off paint can!

The can has been sitting in the garage for a year... I've set up my area this morning ready to commence painting and I can't get the flipping lid off the paint. It has never been used, so not stuck down with previous paint drops.

I've tried; screwdriver, spoon handle, butter knife, pliers... now I'm scratching my head. The edges are getting battered:



Can anyone offer any ideas please

 

A screwdriver with a wide tip (1/2"+) should do it.
You just need to be patient and work around the lid to break the airtight seal.
If you intend to use the whole tin you could always puncture the lid to release the pressure.

 

Just give it to a small child (preferably one wearing expensive clothes) to play with.
It'll be off in no time.

I'd stick with the screwdriver, possibly combined with a small hammer!

 

put into a warm bucket of water

 

Try putting something strong about 3/4 of the way across the lid and using it as a fulcrum for a long, wide screwdriver pushed into that circular groove in the top to try and lever it off a bit, then finish removing by attacking levering with a screwdriver in the usual place.

 

Warm water soak for 10 mins and then an old screwdriver , will get it off.

 

Thanks for the suggestions... no luck so far Waiting to be rescued by my strong neighbour. The light is fading fast, so will start painting tomorrow.

Just about to try the warm water x

 

The screw driver technique usually works for me plus alot of cursing....if you don'y curse it will make it even more difficult

 

I assume you know that they sell a small tool, let's call it a bottle opener for paint can...
The suggestion of putting the can in warm water sounds good.

 

Hi Kazzie
I couldn't help notice you are using the very posh paint Farrow and Ball.......
I am always fascinated by the names of the paint for instance I have just used Mouses Back for someone.
Here is a list ,just cast your eye over some of these names.....lol.....Elephants Breath comes to mind.
God luck with the lid ,it will come of with perseverance.

http://www.farrow-ball.com/colours/paint/fcp-category/list

 

Put it in the middle of the floor of the room in your house that has the best carpet. Then just wait and watch.

Or use the fattest flat head screwdriver you can find, and prise a tiny bit at a time, inching your war around the can loosening a little bit at a time.

 

This is obviously a joke post because even I could get that open ... and I am as useless as hell ...

 

Where you've already buckled the lid bang a flat headed screwdriver down between there and the tin you should be able to force it under the lid and prise it off.