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Select the Best Spray Paint for Your Project

Holly Honeycutt

By Holly Honeycutt
Updated November 8, 2024

Do you have a rusty bistro set or a wood dresser that’s seen better days? Before you set it on the curb, bring it back to life with spray paint. We’ll help you choose the spray paint for your next project.

Types of Spray Paint

Spray paint can be used on wood, metal, plastic, automobiles and more. But it’s important to select the right type of spray paint for your particular project. Here are the different types and where they should be used.

Spray Paint and Primer in One
A primer and paint in one is the quickest and most convenient to use. It can be used on furniture, metal, wood, plastic, PVC, ceramic, glass, masonry and more. This type of spray paint is also useful for arts and crafts projects and come in many decorative finishes, such as metallics, textured, hammered and more.

Some paint-and-primer-in-one spray paints can be used for interior and exterior projects. Benefits of this spray paint include rust protection and fade resistance, and it doesn’t require sanding. Read the can to ensure this type of spray paint will work on your project.

Spray Primer
Using a primer will provide a protective coating to ensure the piece that you’re painting won’t fade, chip or dull over time. It also prevents rust. Primers are available for interior or exterior surfaces, including wood, concrete, masonry or metal.

Automotive
There are various types of spray paint that can be used on automobiles. Most of them are referred to as high-heat spray paints that are used on parts such as manifolds and headers. They can withstand hot temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and protect surfaces from the elements and rust.

Rust Preventative
Many spray paints already contain a rust preventative in them, but there are types that specifically address this issue, offering long-lasting protection and durability. Rust-preventative sprays can be used on interior or exterior projects and can cover materials ranging from wood and metal to aluminum, wicker and plastic.

High Heat
This spray paint can withstand temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and is often used on surfaces ranging from automobile parts and grills to wood-burning stoves and radiators. High-heat spray paint is a durable formula that resists oil, salt, grease, humidity and rust.

Marking and Striping
These spray paints typically come in bright colors and are used to highlight underground utilities, road surfaces and athletic fields. Marking-and-striping spray paint can be used on concrete, blacktop, gravel, soil and grass.

Fabric
Fabric spray paint can be used on outdoor fabric. If you have some throw pillows that need a color refresh, this is a good alternative to purchasing new ones. For outdoor spaces, use outdoor fabric spray paint on faded outdoor cushions, pillows or a sun umbrella. This formula ensures that the fabric stays soft, while providing ultraviolet protection.

Appliance
Bring your worn fridge or washer and dryer back to life with appliance spray paint. The durable, washable enamel withstands grease and grime.
Farm and Implement

This type of spray paint is intended to match the manufacturer's standard colors. It typically provides a glossy, anti-rust coating for a smooth and durable finish. It can be used tractors, lawn mowers, trailers, wagons and more.

Learn more about how to spray paint.

Select the Surface

When you’re selecting spray paint, it’s important to pick one that works on the surface that you’re covering. A good paint and primer in one can often cover multiple surface types. To ensure a durable finish that doesn’t peel or crack, read the can carefully. Spray paint can cover the following surfaces:

    Colors and Sheens

    Spray paint comes in an array of colors and a multitude of finishes. Select the best spray paint for your project.

    Colors
    From black and white to primary colors, pastels, and neons, there’s a spray-paint color to suit every project. Metallic spray paints in gold, silver, copper, bronze and rose gold have also gained in popularity and are great for cabinet hardware, home accents and holiday décor.

    Sheen
    Spray paint comes in the same finishes as traditional paint. Choose from the following sheens:

    Decorative Finishes

    Spray paint has come a long way, and there are finishes that are ideal for decorating, festivities, art projects and more. Choose from the following for your next project:

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