10 Tips to Successful Spray Painting

Spray paint is like a magic wand for fickle decorators like me. It’s like you have this ugly thing (now remember, you might be the only person who thinks it’s ugly, and that’s ok), and while you’re crying bitter tears over that ugly thing, a tiny fairy godmother shows up with her can of spray paint magic wand and with a few shakes turns your pumpkin in to a coach. The last time I had a conversation with my fairy godmother, she gave me her blessing to share with you her 10 tips for successful spray painting so that we can all be magicians.

10 Tips For Spray Paint Success

1. It’s important to choose the right piece to transform. Spray paint has magic powers, and it’s a great option for smoother surfaces, and intricate details. It might not be the best choice for rustic and porous wood, however, because those surfaces really soak up the paint, making spray paint a more expensive option than others.

I chose to paint these lamps for this post. They are glass so the surface is smooth and nonporous, but slightly pebbly. When I bought them they were aqua; I decided that was too bright and painted them white. Then I didn’t like the white anymore. This is why we need spray paint, my friends.

2. Once you’ve chosen your subject, be sure to clean it thoroughly. No paint will stick well to a dirty surface. Make sure the piece dries thoroughly before you start spraying, as the paint will run on a wet surface.

3. Make sure to project the parts you don’t want to paint. We taped off the light bulb part and the cord, adding some plastic grocery bags to cover more surface area. Foil works well too; you can mold it to cover any shape. You’ll also need to protect a pretty wide area around the piece, because, OVERSPRAY.

4. Before you pull the trigger, put on some gloves. The best thing about spray paint is that it sticks to just about anything, and the worst thing about spray paint is that it sticks to just about anything; including your fingers. (if you do get some on your fingers, GooGone will take it off; just a bonus tip for you from me)

Related Links:

How to Make an Easy Wire Basket Side Table

Turn an Old Lamp into a Side Table

My Secret Weapon to Paint Practically Anything

5. Wear a mask. Nothing is scarier than blowing aqua snot out of your nose. Just sayin’.

6. Hold the spray paint can 12-14 inches from your piece while spraying. Keep the can moving and spray short sprays.

7. It is better to paint two (or three) light coats than one heavy coat. A heavy coat of paint is more likely to drip and run. Several light coats will result in a smoother and more durable finish.

8. If you love a shabby chic look, it can be fun to layer two colors. Spray a base coat, let that dry and add a top coat in a different color. A light sanding will add a distressed look and reveal the color underneath.

9. If your piece has an underside that needs painted, turn it over and paint the underside part first. Turn the piece every which way to be sure you don’t miss a spot, but be sure it’s dry before you move it.

10. If you do experience drips or uneven spots, you can sand them out and repaint. It’s all part of the magic.

I coated our lamps with some oil rubbed bronze metallic paint and they are perfect for our bedroom.

I hope these 10 tips for successful spray painting inspire you to use your magical powers for good. Now go paint something!