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!
susan yoder says
March 8, 2017 at 9:54 amSure glad you mentioned to paint the underside first, I still forget that after years of spray painting. Good article.
Gina Luker says
March 8, 2017 at 11:07 amThanks Susan, glad it helped 🙂
Debbie says
March 18, 2017 at 8:09 amI can’t see the pictures in your post!
Gina Luker says
March 18, 2017 at 11:26 amI’m not sure why Debbie, try closing down your browser and the re opening it?
Lou pierce says
April 10, 2017 at 8:52 amAll good advice, but I can’t see the pictures either.
Gina Luker says
April 10, 2017 at 9:32 amHi Lou, I am not sure why? I checked the post and it looks just fine. I always suggest trying another browser, it seems to do the trick 🙂 Thanks 🙂
Kathleen says
April 10, 2017 at 5:03 pmI’m missing just one pic … I clear my cache when having problems like this. I’m going there now! Thanks for
the great tips, Gina!
p.s. If I’m not being *WAY* too nosey (?!?) ~ I’m dying to know what to use to get (or where to buy) a turquoise
hair streak like yours! I haven’t seen that color in the supply places I’ve looked, but it’s been awhile. Thanks … !
p.p.s. I’m with you on the “cocktails” while you work theory! Much, much better than “whistling” right?
Laura Voorhies says
August 13, 2017 at 8:59 amLove your tips – and I too love spray paint! I’ve painted lamps, chairs, and even the base for my kitchen knives – beautiful! I wish I would slow down and remember the main tip “drop cloths- can’t put down too many” – overspray turned the white cement in my breezeway a lovely aqua!
Gina Luker says
August 13, 2017 at 9:58 amLOL, laura 🙂 At least it was an awesome colored overspray!
Do says
November 1, 2017 at 7:02 pmTo remove pai t from hand rub hands with coconut oil or baby oil just keep applying and tubing works good for oil base paints too
Gina Luker says
November 2, 2017 at 8:39 amThanks for the tip Do 🙂
Norma Rolader says
January 17, 2018 at 7:42 pmI like your tips on spray painting due to I would spray too heavy
Norma Rolader says
January 17, 2018 at 7:44 pmI love your lamps
Gina Luker says
January 18, 2018 at 3:36 pmThanks so much Norma 🙂
Kelli says
April 16, 2018 at 5:53 pmLove the tips! I need them. Do you sand items before spray painting?
Gina Luker says
April 17, 2018 at 3:52 pmThanks Kelli, it depends on the piece and the surface. If it isn’t smooth, then yes 🙂
Kelli says
April 20, 2018 at 10:16 amThanks!
laura binder says
April 17, 2018 at 9:30 pmDoing my fans this weekend….love saving money. Thank you
Gina Luker says
April 18, 2018 at 12:15 pmGood for you Laura, have fun!!
Camille Devaux says
July 27, 2018 at 5:55 pmWow, it is really comforting to know that spray paint can be easily fixed by sand them out and repainting. This will be really useful for me since I was thinking about taking on a project that would require spray painting. I am not good with arts and crafts so this tip will be really helpful.
Gina Luker says
July 30, 2018 at 4:17 pmThanks Camillle, I am so glad you found it helpful 🙂