These days, spray painting can be used for a number of different purposes, not just for graffiti. If you haven’t strolled down the spray paint aisle in your local craft store or hardware store lately, you might be surprised at the variety of spray paint currently available.
Whether you have a specific color in mind, a desired texture, or a unique material that needs painting, spray paint is not only a flexible option, but it is also budget-friendly and you can DIY! Some tips have been provided below to help you conquer any and all of your future spray painting projects.
1. Prepare – Before applying spray paint to just about any surface, you must either sand it or at least clean it and dry it thoroughly. Different materials require different prep work so be sure to find this information out before you proceed with the project.
2. Prime – Applying a coat of primer spray paint first is not necessary, but it will only improve the look of the finished product so it is worth the little bit of extra effort and costs next t nothing.
3. Ventilate – Make sure the area where you plan on spray painting is well ventilated to avoid health problems and allow for better drying.
4. Protect – Use drop cloths and cardboard boxes to prevent overspray.
5. Test – This is a critical step because sometimes colors look different on different materials, and after drying. Do a test spot first, which also allows you to confirm whether or not the spray cap is a good one or not.
6. Spray – For optimal coverage, apply thin coats with smooth sweeping motions. Cover the entire project with the first layer of spray paint, then go back to apply a second and third coat if needed.
Helpful Hints:
- Don’t unclog a cap by poking it with a pin or sharp object. Instead, wipe it with a warm cloth or lacquer.
- Read the directions!
- Buy cheap used items from garage sales or thrift stores and repurpose them with spray paint.
