Spray Painting 101: Simple Tips & Tricks

Today, we’re sharing simple tips and tricks to make spray painting even the most basic projects a breeze!

I can’t say I’ve always been a fan of spray paint but over the years, I’ve come to appreciate how quickly and easily spray paint can change the look of everything from decorative accessories to cake stands to breakfast nook chairs.

We’ve been working on the lanai at Bliss Barracks this month and given only a portion of the 450 square feet area is covered (the rest is screened in), we’ve had to get really creative with the kinds of material we’re using for this project.

We used Annie Sloan Chalk Paint for the baker’s rackmakeover the dry sinkmakeover and the hutch and buffet makeover which I’ll share with you soon.  There were a few, more decorative pieces however, we decided to use spray paint on and the change was almost immediate.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to transform old home décor or newly thrifted finds, we have you covered with Spray Painting 101: Simple Tips & Tricks…

Safety First– The first thing you’ll want to do before you start spray painting any project is to make sure you’re practicing proper safety guidelines and precautions.  You’ll need to:

• Wear a Respirator Mask
• Wear Safety Glasses
• Wear Gloves
• Spray Paint in a Well-Ventilated Area, preferably outside

Prep Well– Taking the time to prep well before you start spray painting will go a long way in helping to ensure your project has a quality finish.

• Consider the Weather Conditions, as spray paint needs to be applied when it’s not too hot and humid or too cold and damp. Check the back of your spray paint can for further direction but it is usually not recommended you spray paint below 55 degrees F or above 90 degrees F.
• Set up a Spray Area, and use a spray tent or spray shelter when possible.
• Cover your Work Area with drop cloths, tarps or cardboard
• Expect Overspray
• Choose the Right Spray Paint for your specific job. For example, if you’re outdoor chairs are metal or plastic, you’ll want to make sure you’re choosing a paint that will adhere to and cover that type of material.
• Clean Well so that your object is free from dirt, debris, residue and any moisture.

Simple Tips for Spray Painting

• Shake the spray paint can well – every time – to make sure the spray paint color has been mixed well and will provide smooth.
• Do a quick test away from your project to make sure the nozzle is performing properly and the paint is not clogged in any way.
• Make sure you spray paint with the spray paint nozzle away from you.
• Spray at least 8 inches away from the object your trying to transform.
• Spray in one continuous spray to avoid the appearance of unevenness.
• It is better to use multiple light coats allowing for plenty of drying time in between coats than to use one thick coat of spray paint. This will help to prevent dripping.
• Don’t rush the drying time! It usually takes about an hour before you can recoat a project that has been spray painted and sometimes 7-10 days before the paint fully cures. Remember to refer to the back of the spray paint can for further direction on proper drying and curing time as each brand could be different.

Simple Tricks for Spray Painting

• Use a Spray Nozzle Handle Attachment as it makes spray painting continuously so much easier.
• Turn the Object Upside Down and Paint the Underside First, allow to dry then paint the object right side up. This will help you get into all the nooks and crannies especially if you have pieces that have a lot of decorative details.
• Elevate the Object (on old paint cans, scraps or painter’s pyramids) to make your project easily accessible, think trying to paint the legs of a table or chair.
• Use a Turntable (for smaller projects) to make project easily accessible this will help to make sure your object is covered well from all sides/angles.

I used these simple spray painting tips and tricks yesterday on a few pieces for the lanai.  I updated this galvanized drink container with Rust Oleum in Flat White. Before…

 and after…

I also spray painted this planter that was headed for the donate pile in Krylon’s Matte Glacier Gray which is a blue gray.  I’ve used this brand before but was pleasantly surprised with this new-to-me paint and primer formula in one.  My Mom asked if I could age the embossed parts a little so I used Annie Sloan Dark Wax to highlight the details. Here’s a look at the planter before…

and after…

I finally got the bookcases in the living room styled over the weekend so for my house, I spray painted these urns that have the same feel as a trophy cup then added a bit of dark wax to the front two. Here are the thrift store urns before…

and after….

All of the pictures you see in this post feature objects or projects that have been spray painted. If you’re new to painting and not ready to tackle a room or a big piece of furniture yet, give spray painting a try. Not only is it quick and easy but you can easily transform or change the color of objects large or small!

Have you guys been spray painting anything lately?

See you guys back here tomorrow.  I’ll share the biggest decorating and DIY mistake, I’ve ever made…like, ever. Until next time, I’ll see you on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

Many blessings,

CoCo