The film on the outside of the paintstik automatically re-forms within a day after you use them. The film keeps the paintstiks from drying out over time. Simply store them in a plastic bag, a plastic box, or whatever you have handy that will keep them separated from your other supplies.
Q: I bought new paintstiks, but nothing happens when I try to use them. What’s wrong with them?
Not a thing! Paintstiks have a film over the outside of the stick. Peel the film away with a vegetable peeler or a small paring knife to expose the soft paint underneath.