Achieving a professional-grade look from your spray painting project entails a few key techniques. First, prepare the surface for painting by cleaning and sanding it. You'll also want to maintain a consistent distance from the surface while applying thin, evenly overlapped strokes without rushing the process. Lastly, apply a quality topcoat to protect the color and deliver an eye-catching shine.
How to Spray Paint
Ready to unlock the power of spray paint? This versatile painting tool can instantly transform furniture, décor and other surfaces while providing a protective coating that will help them last longer. Sherwin-Williams is eager to share this all-inclusive guide on how to paint with spray paint, ensuring you achieve a premium finish on your next DIY project. Continue reading for an idea of when to use spray paint, step-by-step instructions and other valuable spray paint tips!
Benefits of Using Spray Paint
Spray paint offers a wide range of advantages, making it an excellent choice for projects of any size. One of the primary benefits is the ease of application, requiring simple spray motions with a lightweight can. Since you're spraying, reaching the toughest corners and intricate details is easier. Spray paint also dries quickly, allowing for more projects in less time than traditional painting. Plus, numerous spray paints are available at Sherwin-Williams, including spray paint for metal, plastic, and other surfaces.
Using Spray Paint on Metal, Wood & Other Surfaces
Understanding how to spray paint metal, wood and other surfaces will help you achieve a finished look you're proud of. For instance, you'll want to clean, degrease and remove rust from metal before priming. Wood requires sanding to create a smooth surface for the topcoat to adhere, while plastic needs a scuffed surface for proper adhesion. It's also vital to follow label instructions and choose spray paint specifically designed for the surface you're coating..
If you're painting a surface that gets hot, we recommend using Krylon® High Heat Max. This heat-resistant spray paint has a stunning finish that withstands hot temperatures and resists rusting, making it perfect for fire pits and grill exteriors. It's important to note that this high-heat spray paint should not be used where the surface comes in direct contact with flames or a heat source.
Step 1
Thoroughly Shake Spray Paint Cans
Before using spray paint, you must shake the can thoroughly. We recommend shaking the spray paint can vigorously for 1-2 minutes. Properly shaking the can will ensure the formula is mixed and help the paint dispense correctly.
Step 2
Spray Primer & Paint
Once you've shaken the cans, it's time to spray paint your project. In many cases, using a spray paint and primer combo or a specific spray primer before applying your desired topcoat is ideal. When spray painting metal or wood, a primer will help the topcoat stick and protect the surface. Using a spray primer will also help prevent the previous color from showing, which is particularly useful when covering a darker color.
Tip: Hold the spray paint can at a slight angle and about 8-12 inches from your painting surface. Keeping the spray paint at the proper distance from the surface will ensure light, even coats.
Step 3
Spray Sealer
Are you curious about how to seal spray paint on wood and other surfaces? You can provide your furniture or décor with a clear topcoat that protects the finish from weather and natural wear. For this final step, we recommend using Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Crystal Clear, which delivers a durable, non-yellowing finish to keep your project looking new for longer.
Tip: If you have leftover spray paint, you can save it for a later project by storing the spray paint can upside down. Storing it in this position will keep the paint fresh and prevent the nozzle from drying and clogging.
Allowing ample drying time between spray paint coats is essential for a smooth and resilient finish. Specific drying times depend on the product you're using and environmental factors (temperature and humidity), so it's best to follow label instructions. Typically, waiting 15-30 minutes between each light coat is best. To know if the paint is dry, lightly touch an inconspicuous area to see if it's tacky or leaves a fingerprint, which are signs that the coat is still drying.
