10 Questions You Should to Know about Custom Aerosol Cans

21, Apr. 2025

 

Spray Paint Everything You Need to Know for Best Results

Spray paint is a versatile tool used in various projects, from home DIY to automotive refinishing. Understanding its mechanics and types can help you choose the right can for your needs. The pressurized can pushes paint through a nozzle, creating a fine mist that covers surfaces evenly. There are two main types: aerosol and sprayable, each suited to different applications.

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Spray Paint What It Is and How It Works

The Basics of Spray Paint

Spray paint provides an even coating by releasing a controlled mist through a pressurized nozzle. To avoid mistakes, apply light layers and keep the can at the right distance for a smooth finish. Understanding the mechanics can improve your technique.

The gas in the can helps push out the color evenly, making application simple. The nozzle controls the flow, ensuring precision. For outdoor projects, UV-resistant options prevent fading from sun exposure. Mastering a spray can takes practice and focus.

Now that we understand how spray works, let's explore the different types available and how to choose the best one for your project.

Types of Spray Paint

Spray paint comes in two main forms: aerosol and sprayable. Often referred to as pressure pack, aerosol is convenient for smaller DIY projects. Sprayable paint, used with a spray gun, is ideal for larger or more precise applications like automotive finishing.

Now that you understand the different types and tools for spray painting, explore how to use these products in various fields.

Where to Buy Spray Paint

Whether you shop from a local store or online, choosing high-quality spray paint is essential for achieving the best results. Once you've made your purchase, the next step is learning how to use it properly to achieve a smooth, professional finish. Below are some key tips and techniques to ensure success with your project.

Finding a Spray Paint Shop Near You

To find a local spray paint shop, use online search engines or tools like Google Maps. Simply search for 'spray paint near me' to find a list of nearby stores. Buying from a local shop offers many benefits.

You can get expert advice, see colors in person, and avoid shipping fees. Local stores may also carry special products tailored for your area's climate, like UV-resistant options that shield projects from sun damage, making them ideal for outdoor use.

Now that you know where to find supplies, let’s talk about how to choose the right type based on your budget.

Comparing Cheap Spray Paint vs. Inexpensive Spray Paint

When choosing spray paint, it’s important to tell apart between "cheap" and "inexpensive." While cheap aerosol spray paint may cut costs initially, it often leads to poor coverage and quick fading.

In contrast, affordable brands like Rust-Oleum deliver reliable quality without breaking the bank. Brands like Rust-Oleum and Dupli-Color give durable, reliable finishes. They don’t cost much but still provide high quality, making them a smart choice for most projects.

Top Spray Paint Brands

Rust-Oleum is one of the best brands for reliable results. Krylon is great for quick DIY fixes, and Rust-Oleum also makes long-lasting automotive spray paints. Dupli-Color is famous for its automotive spray paint that protects against UV rays.

Krylon is another popular brand that offers affordable and versatile options for DIY projects. For professional use, brands like Montana and VHT make specialty paints.

UV-resistant paint protects your project. It prevents damage from the sun. This makes it perfect for outdoor use.

Even with the best spray paint brands, using the right techniques is crucial to getting the best results.

Knowing where to buy your spray paint is just the first step. To get good results, you need to follow the right spray paint techniques.

Popular Uses of Spray Paint Spray paint is a handy tool for everything from car touch-ups to home DIY projects:

Now that you know the different types of spray paint, see how to apply them in various fields. Each type of paint works best for different projects.

  • Automotive: Ideal for both minor touch-ups and full car repaints, especially for DIY car enthusiasts.
  • Spray paint is popular for home projects like furniture restoration, crafting, and improvements. It's easy to use and comes in many colors.
  • Construction and Art: In construction, it's used for marking. Artists use special paints to create murals and graffiti. Each field utilizes spray paint for its unique benefits.

To give you more tips and advice, we talked to John, a spray paint expert. He shared his experiences to help you get better results.

Expert Interview: Tips and Insights from John, Spray Paint Expert

To better understand spray techniques and get expert tips, we spoke with John, an experienced spray professional. His hands-on knowledge gives valuable advice to help you achieve professional results.

Interviewer:

Hi John, thanks for joining us today. Can you tell us about your first experience using spray?

John: Sure! I remember my first job like it was yesterday. I was 16, and I had this old, beat-up car that badly needed a makeover.

I didn’t have a lot of money, so I bought some inexpensive aerosol spray. I had no idea what I was doing, but I wanted to make the car look new again. The job wasn’t perfect, but I learned a lot from it.

Interviewer:

That’s a great story, John. When you first started, did you struggle?

John: Definitely! Getting a smooth finish was a real challenge at first. I thought I could just spray without much prep, but I quickly learned that applying thin, even coats was key.

I also didn’t prep the surface well enough, so it didn’t stick properly. Prepping is really important if you want great results.

Interviewer:

It sounds like surface prep is crucial. What advice would you give beginners starting with spray?

John: Always clean and sand the surface before starting. It helps the spray adhere better and gives a smoother finish.

If you’re new, start with small projects using auto spray cans. That way, you can learn from your mistakes on something small before moving on to bigger tasks. Each time, you’ll get closer to professional-looking results.

Interviewer:

That’s helpful advice. Can you explain the difference between car spray and regular spray?

John: Absolutely. Regular spray, like a color spray can, works fine for small jobs like repainting furniture or a bike. But for cars, you need a stronger option.

Automotive spray in a can gives a smooth finish and withstands harsh conditions, like UV rays and bad weather. It’s always better to use car-specific spray for the best results.

Interviewer:

Good to know. What should people think about when choosing aerosol colors for their cars?

John: When choosing a car spray color, try to match the original color of your car. This way, touch-ups will blend in smoothly. Also, think about the finish—some colors look great with a glossy finish, while others look better in matte. Most stores with aerosol colors can help you choose the right one for your project.

Interviewer:

I’ve heard a lot about touch-up spray for cars. When should people use it?

John: Touch-up spray is great for small scratches or chips. If someone dings your door by mistake in a parking lot, grab a touch-up spray. It’s a quick and easy way to keep your car looking fresh without doing a full job.

Interviewer:

I’ve heard a lot about touch-up spray for cars. When should people use it?

John: Touch-up spray is great for small scratches or chips. If someone dings your door by mistake in a parking lot, grab a touch-up spray. It’s a quick and easy way to keep your car looking fresh without doing a full job.

Interviewer:

Here’s a question many might ask: What should people look for when buying automotive spray in cans?

John: That is an excellent and well-considered question. When buying automotive spray in cans, make sure you pick a high-quality brand. Rust-Oleum, Dupli-Color, and Krylon are the most trusted brands, known for their durability.

Pick a spray for cars in a can that handles weather and UV exposure.

John: Prepping the surface is the most important step. Make sure it’s clean, smooth, and dry. After applying the color coat, use a clear coat spray to protect and give it a glossy finish.

Also, make sure you follow the automotive spray guide for the best results. A guide will help you avoid mistakes and get a professional finish.

Interviewer:

Before we wrap up, do you have any final car spray tips for our readers?

John: Sure! Always check the weather before starting. Humidity and temperature can affect how it dries. Also, shake your auto spray cans well before use to ensure the mix is consistent. It seems simple, but it makes a big difference in how it comes out.

Interviewer:

Thanks, John. Your experience and tips have been really helpful. I’m sure our readers will appreciate the advice on getting the best results for their cars.

John: I’ve had a great time doing this. I hope everyone feels more confident about starting their own car projects now!

Choosing the Right Spray Paint: Finishes, Colors, and Custom Options

Factors to Consider When Buying Spray Paint

Pick based on what you’re painting and the weather. For outdoor projects, make sure to get weather-resistant paint. For outdoor projects, pick a paint that resists the elements like rain and sun. If you're in a humid area, use fast-drying paint for better results.

For more specialized uses, like painting cars, you'll want to choose automotive-grade spray paint. This paint handles tough weather and lasts longer on metal.

Spray Paint colour and Finishes

Comes in many colors and finishes, like matte, glossy, or metallic. When choosing a color, think about how it will look on your project.

A glossy finish makes surfaces shiny and new. A matte finish gives a more subtle, modern look. Be sure to pick a color and finish that match the style and purpose of your project.

Custom Spray Paint Options

Many companies offer custom services, allowing you to match specific colors for a unique finish. This is especially useful for automotive restoration projects or home renovations where an exact color match is essential. You can order custom colors online by giving a color sample or code. Some stores also let you visit and try different shades and finishes before you decide.

Best Spray Paint for Cars

When picking spray paint for cars, choose automotive-grade paint. This paint withstands bad weather and tough road conditions.

This type of paint is stronger. It protects the car from the sun, rain, and temperature changes. It sticks better to metal and doesn’t peel or chip as easily. After selecting, it’s time to find a reliable place to purchase it.

Spray Paint Tips and Techniques for the Best Results

How to Use a Spray Can Effectively

It may seem simple, but getting it right takes attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you get the best results.

Shake the can well before you start. Hold it about 10-12 inches from the surface to prevent drips. Use thin, sweeping motions and apply light coats instead of one thick coat.

Let each layer dry completely before adding another. Trust me, using a primer first makes a huge difference—it helps the paint stick better and last longer! especially on surfaces like metal or plastic.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Spray Paint a Car

To achieve the best results, follow these essential tips. If you're interested in painting cars, follow this step-by-step guide. It will help you get a professional finish.

  1. First, clean the surface carefully. Make sure it’s free from dust and dirt for smooth painting.
  2. Apply the paint in thin, even layers, giving each coat enough time to dry fully before moving on to the next.
  3. Shake the can well before use.
  4. As mentioned before, keep the spray 10-12 inches from the surface. Applying thin, even coats is key to getting a smooth finish.
  5. Use thin coats and give each layer time to dry before adding the next.
  6. Try not to paint in humid or windy weather because it can cause the paint to go on unevenly, ruining your finish.

Best Practices for Spray Painting

Following these tips will help you get the best results from spray painting.

Managing Dry Time for a Smooth Finish

To get a smooth finish, give each coat enough time to dry before moving on to the next. Give each layer 10-30 minutes to dry until it's tacky to the touch, but not wet. If the paint comes off when you touch it, give it more time to dry before adding another coat. In cooler or more humid conditions, the paint may take longer to dry.

Wait patiently to avoid smudging or creating uneven layers. Always check the maker's instructions for drying times. Don’t touch or move the object until the final coat is fully dry, which can take 24-48 hours.

Once you've mastered drying times, it's equally important to avoid common mistakes that can affect your final result.

Tips for Avoiding Common Mistakes

First things first—clean and sand the surface before you start painting. Using a primer can help the paint stick better. A common mistake is using too much paint at once, which causes drips and messy coverage.

It keeps out moisture, rust, and extreme temperatures. by moving the spray in smooth, sweeping motions.

Hold the can about 10-12 inches away from the surface and keep a consistent speed. Avoid spraying too close, which can lead to thick spots, or too far, which may result in poor coverage. Shake the can every few minutes while you spray to keep the paint mixed and prevent the nozzle from blocking.

Maintaining and Touching Up Spray Can

How to Maintain Your Perfect Finish

Over time, even the most carefully applied pressure pack paint can fade or chip. To touch up small areas, use a fine brush or a touch-up spray that matches the original color. First, clean the area and sand down any rough edges around the chip or scratch.

If the paint fades or wears out, you may need to add a new coat, especially on outdoor items. Regular maintenance, like waxing or applying protective coatings, can also help extend the life of the paint.

Using Touch-Up Paint for Minor Scratches

Touch-up paint can be used for small scratches that appear over time.

When to Reapply or Retouch aerosol Paint

Over time, touch-up can fix small scratches, or a new coat may be necessary if the paint begins to fade or wear.

Long-lasting Paint: What to Look For

When picking long-lasting pressure pack paint, go for ones with strong binders and resins. These help the paint stick better and stop it from chipping.

Pick a paint that blocks UV rays if the object will be in the sun. This helps stop the paint from fading over time. For outdoor projects, weatherproof paint is key.

By picking the right nozzle and applying even pressure, you can get a smooth and professional finish. High-quality often list their durability and wear resistance on the label. Choose trusted brands that focus on these qualities for a long-lasting finish.

UV-Resistant Spray Can for Outdoor Use

For outdoor projects, it’s important to choose UV-resistant pressure pack paint to prevent fading caused by the sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

We covered the technical details and expert tips. Now, it’s helpful to address common questions. Answering these questions clears up any confusion. These questions are about pressure pack paint. These questions help clear up things for beginners.

1. What surfaces can I use aerosol paint on?

People commonly use pressure pack paint for home DIY projects, crafts, and car repairs. It's great for touch-ups using aerosol cans

2. How do I achieve a smooth finish with spray can?

To prepare a surface for spray painting, clean and sand it first. Make sure it's smooth and dry before using auto paint spray for the best results.

3. What type of aerosol paint is best for cars?

For cars, the best options are long-lasting automotive spray paint or UV-resistant car spray paint to protect against sun damage and wear.

4. How can I avoid drips while using aerosol paint?

You should wait 10-30 minutes between coats when using an auto paint spray can to ensure proper drying.

Are you interested in learning more about Custom Aerosol Cans? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

5. How do I maintain my spray-painted surfaces?

To avoid mistakes, apply thin, even coats with car paint aerosol cans. Keep the can 10-12 inches away from the surface for even coverage.

In summary, you can use pressure pack paint for various projects, from automotive repairs to DIY crafts. With the right products and skills, you can get great results. If you need expert help with car painting and repairs, Platinum Paint and Panel is here to help. They provide high-quality services to keep your car looking its best.

Contact Platinum Paint and Panel for All Your Car Repair and Painting Needs

Come visit us at 126 Adderley St West Auburn NSW, or get a free quote online. We're here to help with any car painting or repair needs.

Why Choose Us for Pressure Pack Paint Services?

Our team at Platinum Paint and Panel gives you top-notch service.

We specialize in auto body repair. They also specialize in spray painting and accident repair. We work hard to keep your car in great shape.

Spray Paint FAQs | Centsational Style

Some of you, no, a handful of you have been reading this site since the beginning when I started spray painting all sorts of things on the average of at least once a month and frequently mentioning my affection.  I jumped on the spray paint bandwagon several years ago, cracked the whip, and cried "Faster, faster, take us to a better place!"  I have an entire category dubbed "Spray Paint, My BFF" and I reckon I’ve done my part to keep RustOleum, Valspar, and Krylon in biz.

I’ve spray painted just about everything:  plastic, glass, wood, fiberglass, mirror, metal, ribbon, laminate, etcetera.  I’ll spray paint anything that stands still, mostly because it’s  cheap-n-easy, but also because my curiosity in this wonder product knows no end.  Most especially since I’ve witnessed first hand just how many gosh darn things seem to look better when dosed with Toluene and Xylene (the chemicals in spray paint which we never mention in the light of day, but secretly adore in the private solitude of our well ventilated garages).

Spray paint, when applied correctly, possesses the magical power to transform so many dated looks into a something fresh and modern, all in the course of an afternoon.  I think if I was stranded on a deserted island, a can of spray paint just might be on my wish list, not for the giant ‘SOS’ but to give my pathetic coconut mailbox attached to my hut that extra oomph it needed.

I’m sorry, where was I?  Oh yes. Take this sweet little French style solid wood nightstand I spied while gallivanting around the local thrift store last week.  Fab lines, lovely detail, but with yellowed spotty paint and chipped gold accents.  Facelift needed.

All’s well that ends well when you have a well shaken can of spray paint with which to solve the world’s problems.  The final paint is RustOleum’s ‘Canvas White’ found at True Value Hardware.

Before:

After:

‘Shipwrecked Pitcher’ from Anthropologie

I have used spray paint in so many ways I can’t even count them anymore.  Take a tour through my home and you won’t find a room with at least one spray painted thang.  Since I often get asked questions about spray paint, I reckon I’ll just put all those FAQs in one big post.  Bear with me.  I don’t know all the answers, but that’s where you come in at the end friends.

Away we go.    

1. What surfaces can I spray paint?

What can’t  you spray paint?   Well, perhaps that’s too inclusive.  Here’s the growing list.  Plastic, metal, fiberglass, mirror, glass, wood, wicker, masonry, plaster, concrete, canvas, ceramics, MDF, laminate and particle board.

Image via Valspar

2. What are the pros and cons of spray paint vs. brush on paint?

I addressed this query last year, you can read all about in in this article about the pros and cons of spray paint.  Several other issues are addressed in the following questions, so read on!

3. How can I avoid drips?  Do you have a certain technique you use when applying spray paint?

*Cough*  Ahem.  Um, yes I do.  I even made a video.  Those new to spray painting can view my beginner tips and simple painting technique.  The rest of you pros have strict instructions to avert your eyes and ears.

4. To prime or not to prime, that is the question.

Mkay, where to begin.  My rule of thumb is this.  Prime these surfaces: 1) anything  meant to go outdoors that will be exposed to moisture because you risk rust (but see below), 2) glossy surfaces, or 3) wood.  Forget everything else.  But I break that rule of thumb all the time, so what good am I to this world, I don’t know.

Here’s my reasoning why I sometimes skip primer.  Spray paints are predominately oil based paints.  You can always tell when you read the ‘cleanup’ category on the back and it says to use paint thinner or mineral spirits to clean up your spray paint.  ‘Paint thinner’ and ‘mineral spirits’ = oil based paint.  It’s that simple.

Because spray paint is oil based, I find it has a much higher adhesion than your typical latex paints.  It clings baby, and it clings well.  Hence the reason I often skip primer when working with spray paint even when recommended *gasp* because I have a sneaking suspicion that I’m being sold a product I don’t need.  But don’t quote me on that.  Raw wood loves oil based paint, it soaks it up well, so for example when I refinished this chair, I skipped the primer and went straight to spray paint and have never had a problem since.

If you’re spray painting something for the outdoors, you may want to consider priming to protect against rust, Krylon recommends it.   However, I’ve spray painted several pieces of metal outdoor furniture without priming with only spray paint specifically designed for outdoor use, and they’ve never rusted, even after years of rain and sun exposure.

One thing I do like about spray primers is they dry with a flat finish, so if you like that super matte finish in white, gray, or black, just spray your object with primer and call it a day.   Black matte primers and spray paints can make a bowl or pitcher look pretty close to Basalt, just ask Eddie.

5. What are the dangers of skipping primer when using oil based spray paint?

I haven’t ever had a problem skipping the primer with glass, metal, fiberglass, terra cotta, or plastic because of the oil based nature of spray paints mentioned above.  My only real problems arise when I skip primer with glossy or wood surfaces.  With wood or laminate, you risk the paint not sticking over time or the dreaded bubbling and cracking that can occur in certain conditions when the surface repels the paint.  Which brings us to our next question.

6. My spray paint just bubbled and cracked, and I’m freaking out.  What did I do wrong?

I have seen this happen in three circumstances.   When the temperature outside was too low, when the wood surface wasn’t primed, and when the surface wasn’t perfectly clean and free from debris.  When you read the back of a can of spray paint, it cautions you to use the paint within a certain temperature range.  That’s key.  One time when I was spray painting the curtain rod in my office, it crackled on me because it was early in the morning in December and below 50 degrees.

This most recent crackling was due to debris I forgot to clean off my drawer front.  Both debris (and sometimes lack of primer) can lead to problems.  In my experience, it happens in patches, and not across an entire surface.  Basically part of your surface is repelling the paint like a toddler refusing his green vegetables.  "Me no likey, ppphhhhhbbt!"

Don’t panic.  This little wrinkle is easily solved with oil based primer.  I recommend you keep a quart of it handy, you’ll be amazed at its adhesion, stain blocking and bonding qualities.  Zinsser primer also comes in spray version, both the red and brown can are oil based, and they’re awesome.

So here’s what I do with a crackled surface.  I wait wait wait until the crackled spray paint is completely dry.  You’ll find the bubbles and cracks reside a bit so that it looks like dehydrated clay.  Or my forehead up close when I don’t moisturize, heh heh.

After you’ve allowed the spray paint to dry a full 24 hours, sand it down with some medium to fine grade sandpaper so it’s smooth, then coat it with oil based primer.  Allow that to completely dry.  Lightly sand if necessary.  Apply second coat of spray paint over the top.  You should be fine.  Spray paint takes a chill pill when layered over oil based primer.

RustOleum has a good surface preparation guide you can read here.

7. I‘ve noticed a splotchy finish on my flat furniture surfaces.  What the heck?

Yes, I’ve seen this too.  To me, it’s not necessarily a problem with paint coverage, but a weird thing that happens with the finish.  This is why I had to brush paint my bookcases in my office because the sides kept getting that splotchy look from the spray.

And yet another reason why larger pieces of furniture with flat surfaces don’t necessarily look better when spray painted.  Just my experience.

But I have found a new solution that seems to work.  I tried the Krylon ‘Matte’ finish as a final coat, and that seemed to even out the splotchy look.  It also tones down glossy paint finishes.

Krylon also has an entire series of artist’s clear coatings which I’m excited to try in the near future. They may be the perfect protective coat for white paint, fingers crossed. 

8. What’s the deal with those new nozzles?

A certain company has introduced the ‘Comfort Tip’ designed to be more spray paint user friendly.  Peeps in the SPFC (Spray Paint Fan Club), you’ll have to tell me what you think, but here’s my opinion.  {Insert granny voice}  "Them thar new fangled contraptions ain’t as good as them old fashion nozzles! " 

Yes, you heard me right.  If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it is what I say.  I find the new flatter wider nozzles (on the right) clog and spit five times more than the old fashioned nozzles (on the left).  But it could be that the Comfort Tip gods are against me.

Bottom line, you still need that spray paint gun that you see (located in your paint department) or you’ll never be accepted into the SPFC.  I tell you the truth. ;-)

9. What’s the difference in sheen?  How do I know when to choose flat, matte, satin, gloss or lacquer?

Ah yes, the great debate.   Unfortunately, with spray paint, and unlike latex brush-on paints, the sheen is already chosen for you.  So if you’re searching for something beyond black or white, you don’t have many options other than what is already specified on the can.   The most common finishes are Satin and Gloss.  RustOleum, Krylon, and Valspar have developed their own lines of great colors, but again, you’re limited by what’s available.

That said, the sheens are what they are.  Matte is very similar to flat paint, satin is akin to an eggshell finish, and gloss is well, glossy.  Lacquer is the glossiest and shiniest of all.

Image via RustOleum

10. Where’s the best place to buy spray paint?

It’s everywhere, but the retailer chooses what brands and colors to stock.  I found my most recent stash at True Value ~ I’ve been shopping there a lot lately.

I’ve also found spray paints at Home Depot, Lowes, OSH, ACE, Walmart and Michaels.  If you’re looking for a particular color or specialty paint, most of the big websites have a store locator tab so you can find what your looking for near your zip code.  Ask your retailer to order your specific paint for you if you can’t find it close by, or shop online.  If you’re really gung ho, I hear you can buy it by the case at a discount.   

11.  Why aren’t there prettier spray paint colors available?

Amen to that.  There is a limited amount of quality colors.  My most favorite to date is ‘London Gray’, a deep mushroom color used on these small dressers and RustOleum’s ‘Night Tide’ (a gorgeous deep teal) used on the lamp in my family room.   The colors I’ve used the most are RustOleum’s ‘Heirloom White’, ‘Gloss White’ and ‘Espresso’.  Both ‘Oil Rubbed Bronze’ and ‘Metallic Bronze’ are favorites too. 

If I won the lottery, I’d develop my own line of spray paints in the most amazing colors, but that’s a dream for another decade.  Till then, I’ll be waiting patiently by the for that assignment from the big producers.

12.  Tell me about specialty spray paints, the metallics, hammered and stone finishes, high heat, chalkboard and frosted species.

I’ve used the frosted version here and here, the chalkboard version here and here, and the plastic version here and here, all with great success.   I’ve used the high heat (brush on) here and here, but the spray version is the same formula.  Great for BBQs I understand.

Other readers feel free to chime in about your experiences with hammered or stone finishes, those I’ve never used before.

*** Reader comment update ***

"One small piece of advice to those out there looking to spray paint plastic: go Krylon Fusion.  I was at my local Lowe’s (where they don’t seem to carry Krylon) and bought Valspar plastic spray paint as an alternative. As it turns out, not all plastic spray paints are created equal… the Valspar stuff bubbled and warped, but I’ve had no problems with Krylon’s product."  ~ Sarah at Ugly Duckling House  (CG note: I’ve used Rustoleum’s version for plastic and been pleased with the results too.)

"I’ve used the textured finish on a tired metal patio set. The finish does look great but it takes an awful lot of paint to do just one chair. So now I’m mid-way through and realizing it probably would have been cheaper to buy a whole new set on clearance.  One chair takes almost 2 cans to get good coverage. Perhaps if I had primed it black first I could have used a lighter top coat.   At our old house I used the hammered finish on old radiators and they looked great, hid the bumps and unevenness really well."  ~ Sophie

"The hammered metal paints are fun to use. Temperature and moisture seem to affect how the hammered look turns out.  The stone paints look like fake stone paint, not real stone."  ~ Sarah

13.  Can I toss my empty spray paint can in the garbage?

Please don’t.  Spray paints are considered toxic waste, at least in my state, so I make it a habit to take them to the proper specialty disposal site, even if they’re technically empty, they still contain the residue.

A few unsolved mysteries:

Can you use spray paint on bathroom hardware in high moisture areas?   I’m not sure, but there are spray paints designed for outdoor use on metal, and when I hear ‘outdoor’ I hear ‘rain’ which equals moisture, so I suspect it just might work.  I haven’t seen any manufacturer advertise this, so are there any volunteers?   Whose got some shiny brass plated leftovers from the nineties?  Anyone?  Bueller?

*** Reader comment update***

A lady I worked with spray painted her old brass taps in her bathroom with Rustoleum’s hammered metal paint.. and they look fantastic!   Ass far as I know, she has never had a problem with the results.  I say – go for it!  Try it out and if it doesn’t work you are no worse off than when you started – with an ugly faucet that needs replacing."   ~ Kimberley

"We spray painted our kitchen hardware.. it was ugly brass and I wanted it to match our stainless appliances.. but didn’t want to drop the dough on new handles.  I did spray prime them.. then used some silver Rustoleum.  Worked like a charm! some of our oft used handles have had to be retouched, but its so easy to just unscrew – spray – and reattach! It’s been about 1.5 years — still going strong!  It was a cheap-o solution since we plan a major kitchen overhaul in the next few years. Why spend the $$ now?"  ~ Katie

Can spray paint cans be refilled?  Rumor has it, some hardware stores will do this for you in your paint of choice.  Can you imagine the possibilities?  I’ve never discovered a good source for this, so if any of you have, be sure to tell us where and how it can be done so we can all stampede the door.

*** Reader comment update***

"I just received my refillable spray paint can last week, but I haven’t used it yet, so I don’t know how well it works. You just fill it with thinned paint, pressurize with a bicycle pump, and spray away! It sounds too good to be true, but I do have my fingers crossed.  It’s the ‘Go Green Aluminum Rechargeable Spray Can’ available at Amazon."  ~ Leslie

"Lowe’s now offers custom mixed spray paint! That’s right, you pick the color, they mix it and some how magically put it in your standard aerosol spray can! I’m not sure the price but being able to get the perfect shade of yellow or blue is worth quite a bit in my book. I haven’t tried it yet but I’ll be sure to report back when I do! I still get goosebumps just thinking about it!   ~ Amanda

Want more answers?  Visit RustOleum’s FAQs and Valspar’s general tips for detailed information on working with spray paint.

Want to see my entire list of spray paint projects?  Check out these specific posts.

Now let the greater conversation begin.  Do you have a specific tip to share that hasn’t been mentioned?  Another question that hasn’t been raised?  I’ll try to answer follow up questions in the comments.

Have you worked with a particular spray paint product that you recommend?  Please link to your project in your own comment as well !

True Value Blog Squad legalese:  “I was one of the bloggers selected by True Value to work on the DIY Squad. I have been compensated for my time commitment to the program as well as my writing about my experience.  I have also been compensated for the materials needed for my DIY project.   However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.”

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Aluminum Cosmetic Bottles.