Expedient Paint/Stain Stir Stick

Every so often you need to revive a can of paint or stain. You can shake or jostle it for a while and still have a certain level of separation. If you're lucky your local store will put you old can in the shaker,but it not you need a stick stick.  If you don't have one around and don't have any scrap sticks to use here is a quick way to make a darn good stick for usually zero cost using a wire coat hanger.

Make a 'V' with the hanger by folding the bottom crosspiece up to the hook.

Give each leg a couple twist. I use a pair of pliers to get a nice tight twist, though you can do it be hand as well.

Stir your paint, stain, whatever using a whisking motion. Dig down to the bottom the get the solids well mixed in.  Before you open the can, turn it upside-down and give it a quick shake. If you can let it sit upside-down overnight it will blend easier, but even a few minutes will make a difference.