10 Tips & Tricks to Successful Spray Painting

Submitted to What's New

Happy Tuesday, Creators!

What are you spray painting these days? If it’s a small project such as metallic pine cones for tabletop decor, or a large piece of furniture for a room refresh, we thought some tips and tricks would be helpful!

We share 10 neat little ideas to inspire you:

  1. First and foremost, wearing gloves, eyewear and a mask are always a good idea.
  2. Work in a well-ventilated area and protect your surrounding areas. Covering nearby items with a drop cloth or paper is recommended. You can also create a makeshift spray booth with a large cardboard box. We teach you how in
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  3. Use a primer. We can’t stress it enough, but a primer can make a big difference. It allows for better adhesion to the surface as well as a richer topcoat color. Aside from that, priming before painting ensures a longer-lasting paint job.
  4. Use a turntable and elevate your projects if it’s feasible. Create your own turntable with a lazy Susan (find an inexpensive one at your local dollar store), or just place your object onto something smaller, like a paper cup, so you can turn it around as you apply the spray paint. Place smaller objects on a table and lift larger objects with scrap pieces of wood so it’s easier to reach.
  5. We know finger fatigue may happen if you’re spray painting a larger item. Our Comfort Grip handle ensures your fingers are comfortable through the whole project. It attaches easily to any spray paint can and makes your project a cinch.
  6. Shaking the can keeps the paint well-mixed and your paint job even. Once you hear the marble rattle, shake for at least one minute to ensure the paint is mixed in the can.  Shake often during use.
  7. Start spraying about an inch off of your object and bring the paint slowly onto your item. Spray past the edge of your item for about an inch as well. Keep enough distance between your spray paint nozzle and your item, ideally 10-16”, so the coats of paint are light. More light coats are better than one thick coat.
  8. Paint the underside of an object first. Flip your item upside-down and once that side is dry, finish it with the side that’s seen.
  9. If your nozzle clogs, try spraying the paint upside down on a test surface before going back to your project, or twist and pull off the tip and soak it for a few minutes in mineral spirits.
  10. Allow your paint to dry thoroughly. Don’t pick up your item too soon or you might see fingerprints in your finish. Most spray paint will be dry to the touch in 20 minutes and movable in an hour, but a full cure often occurs in 24 hours.

Spray painting should be a fun experience and we hope these tips put a more professional touch on your next project, whether it’s small décor or large furniture. Where will you be applying these spray painting tips next?