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Spray is by far one of my favorite tools to use for just about everything! One of the best chemical inventions of all time! If you enjoy it too, don’t miss these must read tips for spray paint!
And as a chemist, I have researched many things about it including how it works. I was recently approached for an interview regarding scientific facts about spray paint, and it inspired me to do a post on the blog!
A school was putting together a presentation regarding the chemistry of everyday things. They wanted to feature things like DIY tools including spray paint. I thought this was such a great idea!
Here are my tricks and tips to get the most out of your spray paint can.
Five Must Read Tips For Spray Paint
Find my favorites in the photo above: Glitter | Clear Enamel | Multicolor Texture | Metallic |
Today is all about chemist tips on spray paint!
What exactly is spray paint?
First, what is spray paint? Spray paint is a combination of paint and gas propellant. The propellant used to be CFC (or Chlorofluorocarbons), but was banned due to the damaging effects on the environment. Now, most spray paints use hydroflourocarbons, made of hydrogen, flouride, and carbon. So, spray paint is no longer hazardous to the environment like it once was.
I don’t know about you, but I always like to get the most out of a can. Spray paint isn’t necessarily expensive, but it does add up! Here are my tips and tricks for spray paint:
1. Expensive spray paint doesn’t always matter!
I have used just about every brand of spray paint on the market. In short, expensive spray paints go much further because they are typically higher in paint concentrate. That doesn’t always matter though! If I am doing a project that requires very little spray paint, like a frame or a small box, I buy cheap! If I am doing an outdoor project or one that will require a large area to be covered, I will buy a better quality simply because it will last longer.
2. Always use short strokes!
Meaning, use short controlled sprays instead of just spraying down the entire time. Since spray paint is made with gas propellant, you will waste more paint by holding down the spray nozzle the entire time. It may go faster, but I would rather get the most out of a can. I always do short quick strokes. This also avoids dripping and concentrated areas of paint.
3. The best spray paint tool EVER!
This Standard Spray Grip
4. Mix colors!
I don’t always find the right shade I am looking for, so many times I will buy a good quality base shade and cover an item with that. Then, I will follow up with a cheap gold spray paint and lightly spray over that to create a pretty two toned color. Most projects I get the most compliments on are ones I have mixed colors with.
My favorite mixes: Rust-Oleum Bright Gold
5. Always use a top coat!
I used to never use a top coat, until I did some research years ago regarding paint preservation on certain surfaces. I realized that I needed to start using it!
To avoid paint rubbing off, or smelling like spray paint in your house, use a top coat of some kind. This keeps the paint protected and sealed. Especially if you are painting wood. Spray paint soaks into wood and rubs off more than other surfaces, so it can wear off quicker.
Make sure to visit my chemist solutions series for more chemist inspired ideas!
For some of my super quick, easy spray paint projects with items shown in the top photo: Paint Can turned Planter, Refurbished Vintage Lantern, Fairy Lantern, Stone Planter DIY.
Yesterday I shared with you how I remove labels from jars, and next I will show you the spray painting project I am doing with them using many of these tips!
Are you a spray painting fan?
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Alexis is an investigative chemist sharing her expertise in cleaning, skincare, gardening, and home hacks. She personally tests out products like the best skincare products or home products then shares not only the science behind how it works, but also her personal results. She is the mom of two living in Texas with her husband. Find her on Instagram for fantastic videos, tips, and behind the scenes.
Happy Wednesday Alexis! I cannot remember the last time I used spray paint. I bought some for the kitchen remodel but hubby applied it. I remember using spray adhesive while I was at the architecture office in the late 1980s. Can’t think of a future application but will keep your tips in mind. Have a great day! Mine will be busy but there’s a massage scheduled right after work. Ahhhhh….
Hi Laurie! I love spray painting for almost anything…if something is boring to me, I just spray paint it back to life 🙂 Ohhhh a massage sounds so great! I need to get one soon. Enjoy!!!
As much as I use spray paint, I’ve rarely used a top coat (sometimes I just get into too much of a hurry). I know it works! Love spray paint and what it can do!
I used to never use a top coat, but I started doing it the past few years and it has helped preserve my projects. I love spray paint too! It is so easy and fun to use 🙂
You and I both share a love of spray paint….It’s my go to decor changer. I don’t have that spray attachment and I definitely need it!
You definitely need to get that handle…especially for long projects! It helps keep your hand from hurting 🙂
Love, love, love spray paint! I am going to have to look for the spray grip, but will look for it on my next trip out! Thanks for the great tips!
That grip is awesome! Thanks so much Pamela! Have a great day!
I spray paint alot and these tips are great, thanks for sharing them At Dream create and inspire.
Maria
Thank you Maria! I love spray painting anything 🙂
What would you use for a top coat? Would it also be spray, or would it be something like fingernail polish. As you can see, this is new to me!
I like using clear spray paint top coats! Usually Rustoleum brand. They have clear coats that you can buy that don’t change the look of anything. I just buy the one that says top coat, and it works good! Let me know if you have any other questions 🙂
These are great tips for using spray paint. Thanks for sharing at the #HomeMattersParty – we hope to see you again next week. 🙂
~Lorelai
Life With Lorelai
Thank you Lorelai! I will definitely be back linking up to your fun party next week 🙂
Fabulous tips, my dear! I don’t use spray paint often probably because I am intimidated by it {I know, silly}. Thanks for sharing with Roses of Inspiration. Now I was to spray paint something 🙂
Oddly enough, many people I know are intimidated! I am always helping my friends 🙂 It is so addicting though, I love it! I hope this inspires you to paint! Thanks so much Stephanie!
What a great post! This is advice that we all could use. I stumbled it and will be pinning as soon as I am at a computer that doesn’t think I’m my sister! LOL We swapped today 🙂
LOL thanks so much for your support! I appreciate it 🙂 Sometimes I forget I am on another persons computer, and pin something…usually my mom lol. Have a wonderful day!
Hi Alexis,
Thank you so much for the tips! I LOVE spray paint it and have painted just about every sort of material. I painted our roman shades once (didn’t go so well as you might imagine). Great tips! I’m gonna try mixing colors, I’ve never done that before and sounds helpful. I saw your post from the Thursday Weekend Retreat Link Party. Thanks again!
Thank you Rebie! I appreciate that 🙂 I hope this can help and inspire you to find a new fun spray paint project!!
How do I unplug a spray can nozzle?
I typically clean with hot soapy water. You can also try rubbing alcohol and soap to dissolve it.
I really appreciate your tip to use quick strokes when you are spray painting so you can maximize the pressure. My son told me that he wants to spray paint his car a new color, and he wants to be efficient with his paint. I will be sure to tell him to do quick strokes.