It doesn’t get much easier to change the look of an item than applying a few coats of spray paint — but what's the right way to get it done? Paint too much and you have drips. Paint too little and it looks unpolished.
RELATED: Get crafting! 11 DIY projects to spruce up your home in a flash
TODAY Tastemaker Abby Larson, founder and editor of Style Me Pretty Living, is dishing out her step-by-step guide to spray painting properly — and she even has great tips on how to add a pattern or print to an object you’re spray painting. So grab that can and get ready to roll!
How to spray paint
- Wipe your object clean of any debris or dust.
- Place the object on a large piece of cardboard or newspaper to protect the surface on which you’re spray painting. It’s preferable to spray paint outdoors for proper ventilation.
- Begin applying your first coat of spray paint, spraying at least 8 inches away.
- Rotate the piece as you spray. If you can’t rotate it, rotate yourself!
- Apply between two and three coats of paint for a solid color.
RELATED: See this kitchen go from dated to dashing after a DIY transformation
If you want to create a print or pattern on your item…
- Apply painter’s tape to the object in the pattern you desire before applying spray paint. Make sure the tape is secure, especially the edges.
- Apply three coats of spray paint to the object.
- Once dry, remove the tape.