---
title: "Spray Painting Dos and Don’ts: How to Get Pro Results"
description: "Spray painting is a quick, easy upgrade that doesn't cost a bundle. These expert tips will ensure you get the best results."
date: "2016-08-19"
modified: "2026-09-10"
authors:
  - name: "Jennifer Noonan"
    job_title: "Contributing Writer"
    link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/jennifer-noonan.md"
  - name: "Bob Vila"
    job_title: "Founder"
    link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/bob-vila.md"
url: "https://www.bobvila.com/articles/spray-painting-tips/"
categories:
  - "DIY"
  - "Painting & Finishing"
  - "Skills & Techniques"
tags:
  - "News"
  - "paint"
---

# Spray Painting Dos and Don’ts: How to Get Pro Results

![Person spray paints a spindle chair hot pink, outdoor greenery in the background.](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/spray_paint_chair.jpeg>)
*Photo: LeanderVasse via Adobe Stock*

When you need a quick, cool upgrade that doesn’t cost a bundle, [spray paint](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/spray-painting-tips.md>) is hard to beat. A host of exciting new hues and finishes have taken spray paint to the next level, and you can use it on all sorts of surfaces, from concrete blocks and stepping stones to wood, plastic, or metal furniture. But getting pro-quality results does take a bit of skill, so read on before you spray away!

## 1. DO choose the right place to paint.

![Cabinet doors and drawer fronts drying on the floor after being spray painted in the garage.](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/garage_spray_painted_cabinets.jpeg>)
*Photo: Jo Ann Snover via Adobe Stock*

As with any painting project, good ventilation is key. If the weather is nice and it's not too windy, can paint outside. (Too much of a breeze can cause uneven coverage, or blow dirt onto your piece.) If you're working indoors, open all windows in the room or paint in the garage, near the open door.

## 2. DON’T neglect prep work.

![Woman uses a sanding block to sand a stained bench.](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/sanding_stained_bench.jpg>)
*Photo: Tom Fenenga for BobVila.com*

Preparation is key to any successful paint job. Mend any scratches or holes, then sand to smooth out rough spots. Wash your piece with a mild detergent solution, rinse with water, and allow it to dry thoroughly.

## 3. DO practice protection.

![Woman sprays green spray paint on a piece of PVC pipe propped inside a cardboard box.](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/spray_pvc_inside_box.jpg>)
*Photo: Tom Fenenga for BobVila.com*

When you're spray painting there's always overspray, which is why it's important to cover the surrounding area with drop cloths or newspaper. If you're painting a small item, contain overspray by setting the piece inside a [cardboard box](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/what-to-do-with-cardboard-boxes.md>). Perhaps more crucial is protecting yourself. Aerosol paint can get into eyes and lungs, so wear goggles and a dust mask or respirator. Gloves are a good idea, too, and remember that overspray on the floor can stick to the bottom of your shoes—remove footwear and check your soles before leaving the area to avoid tracking paint.

## 4. DON’T rush the job.

For optimal, even coverage, apply spray paint in several thin coats. Don’t worry if you can see through the first or even the second coat. Patience is a virtue here.

## 5. DO use a sweeping motion.

![Woman spray paints the metal leg of a table.](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/how-to-spray-paint-metal.jpg>)
*Photo: Tom Fenenga for BobVila.com*

Waving the can randomly will result in uneven results. Instead, hold the can 6 to 8 inches from the surface and use even, horizontal strokes, sweeping from left to right, then right to left. Don't pause in any one spot or the paint will drip.

## 6. DON’T spray continually.

To [avoid glops and spots](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/bad-paint-job.md>)—and to conserve paint—spray in short spurts rather than a constant stream. Listen for brief bursts of air coming from the can, as opposed to a long, steady hiss.

## 7. DO allow the paint to cure completely.

Spray paint does dry quickly, but it usually requires at least 24 hours to cure completely. Resist the urge to move your piece or replace any hardware you’ve removed until you’ve reached the curing time indicated on the can. A scratch or fingerprint late in the game will be [difficult to fix](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/the-13-painting-mistakes-almost-everyone-makes-48420.md>).

## Author
A confessed DIY junkie, Jennifer Noonan writes about home improvement, gardening, and all things do-it-yourself. The recipient of degrees in International Relations and Library & Information Science from Syracuse University, Noonan has worked in media and related fields for over 15 years, including her time at [MTV Networks](<https://www.paramount.com/about/brands/mtv>), where she served as Manager of Digital Programming at [Nickelodeon](<https://www.nickelodeon.com>). Today, Noonan lives in Delaware with her husband and daughters, where she is ardently teaching the next generation how to use power tools.

### Author social links  
[LinkedIn](<https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-noonan-ab62a05/>)

## More

- [The Dos and Don’ts of Caulking the Bathroom](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/caulking-the-bathroom.md>)
- [How to Spray Paint Metal](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-spray-paint-metal.md>)
- [How to Paint PVC Pipe](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-paint-pvc-pipe.md>)
- [The Dos and Don’ts of Painting Furniture](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/painting-furniture.md>)
- [The Dos and Don’ts of Deck Maintenance](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/deck-maintenance.md>)
- [The Dos and Don’ts of Mulching the Garden](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/mulching-the-garden.md>)
- [How to Cut in Paint Like a Pro](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-cut-in-paint.md>)
- [How to Use Vinegar in Laundry: 6 Dos and Don’ts You Need to Know](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-use-vinegar-in-laundry.md>)