There's a certain satisfaction in hearing the jingle of a spray-paint can and watching a stream of color transform a surface. Use these techniques to give a new attitude to just about anything.
How to Use Spray Paint Basics
- Choose your location. A well-ventilated place will protect you from paint fumes. Outdoors is best, but an open garage is a good second choice. If you have to be indoors, open as many windows as possible and use a fan while spraying and drying.
- Protect from overspray. Set small projects in a deep cardboard box, or put down a drop cloth when working with bigger pieces.
- Prepare the surface. Most materials must be cleaned, sanded, and dried for best results before spray-paint application. Applying a primer will result in a smoother surface, truer color, and longer-lasting finish.
- Read all directions. Check the can for how to use spray paint, the proper distance for spraying, and the drying times needed before you begin painting.
- Test your spray paint. Try a practice spray on a piece of scrap material with the same surface as your project. A steady spray tool offers an easy-to-use trigger that creates an even stream of paint.
- Apply multiple thin coats. Sweep the paint can so you spray across the project, beginning and ending each coat off the side. Complete a coat over the entire project all at once, instead of working in stages. This will give you a more consistent color and finish. Consult the canister for the recommended time to apply several coats before allowing time for the paint to cure, known as the "recoat window."
- Allow the project to dry. Different brands and finishes require specific drying times. Wait the recommended time before moving the project from the work area.
- Clean spray valve. Prevent clogging by holding the can upside down and spraying until only clear gas is released. If a tip does become clogged, wipe off the opening with warm water or lacquer thinner. Never stick a pin or wire into the hole.
How to Prepare a Surface for Spray Paint
Ceramic: Rough up a glazed surface with sandpaper. Some kiln-set paints are available at crafts stores.
Fabric and vinyl: Prewash apparel-grade fabrics before spray painting. Check to ensure upholstery and outdoor fabrics are not treated with protectants that might prevent paint adhesion. Airbrush-like applicators work best for detailed designs (try Testors brand). Rust-Oleum makes a special vinyl spray designed for bringing back shine.
Glass: Create custom-etched looks with stencils and frosted glass paint (we like Krylon Frosted Glass), or add privacy with pearlized, translucent sprays.
Metal: If you're repainting a rusted appliance or grill, use specialty paint with magnetic or heat-resistant qualities. Remove existing rust and oil and lightly sand glossy surfaces before you begin.
Plastic: Clean new plastics with a paint thinner and older plastics with an ammonia-based cleaner. Krylon's Fusion line is designed to bond to plastic, PVC, and resin.
Sisal: Shake out or vacuum the rug to remove loose fibers before you tape down a pattern or stencil. Then, spray a coat of polyurethane sealer over your colorful paint to keep your design looking crisp.
Wicker: Lightly sand, wipe clean, and prime wooden wicker before spraying with an indoor/ outdoor product. The surface should be dry and look dull before spraying. For resin wicker, clean with an ammonia-base cleaner. New plastic pieces also should be wiped down with paint thinner. When dry, apply a spray paint designed for plastics.
Wood: Remove previous paint and/or stain. Sand and wipe clean before applying a fresh coat.