Abstract: A process for producing water-based paint from a plurality of premixed compositions includes mixing at least two of a pigment composition, a dispersant thickening agent, a high resin content binder, and a low resin content binder. The pigment composition includes a pigment, water, a mixture of clay and silica, a viscosity controlling agent, and a dispersant thickener. The dispersant thickening agent includes a phosphate-based dispersant, water, a cellulosic thickener, and a coalescent.