Guide to Spray Paint Art: How to Make Spray Paint Art

Spray paints are liquid paints that are contained in an aerosol can. A can of spray paint comes with a button on the top that dispenses paint when you press down on it. Using spray paint is an alternative painting method to traditional brushwork. It is available in many different textures and finishes from high-gloss, to matte, to high-heat paints for cooking appliances. Street artists often use [spray paint](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-spray-paints-explained) as a medium for [graffiti](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/graffiti-history-explained) which can be applied to a variety of canvases such as glass, wood, cement, or poster board for any number of visual effects. Graffiti is a type of street art that is typically drawn within the public view, often illegally, on billboards, street signs, subway trains, buildings, walls, and boxcars. Rather than using paintbrushes, spray paint artists use aerosol cans to apply coats of spray paint to an intended surface. Spray paint artists can apply their materials freehand, or use pre-cut stencils to help create their images. Whether you want to become a graffiti artist or do some graffiti-style painting in your home, here are some helpful tips for working with spray paint. 1. __Pick the right spray paint__. The best spray paint for a cement canvas may not be the same paint you would use for wood or ceramic. 2. __Shake your spray paint can before each spray__. Shake your can of spray paint often to make sure it is mixed well and spreads evenly across your surface. 3. __Be wary of the temperature__. A hot environment will have a different effect on your spray paint than a colder environment. Spray paint dries faster in cooler environments with more ventilation and less humidity. Make sure you take the temperature and other external factors (like wind) into consideration before painting your canvas. 4. __Check your distance__. Applying your spray paint too close to your surface will create a wet, dripping effect, whereas holding the can too far away won’t provide enough coverage (or lead to painting outside where the spray nozzle intended). Keep the spray can about six to eight inches away from your painting medium. 5. __Practice__. Trace your drawing or practice different styles of the art you want to create before you start painting. This can help you to avoid wasting paint or having to start over. Spray painting is a fun and expressive art form any person of any age can enjoy. Here are a few supplies you need to get started. 1. __Aerosol spray paint__: Depending on the type of art piece you’re creating, you might need a variety of spray paint colors (or even just black and white). Stock up with enough spray paint cans to complete your artistic vision. 2. __Newspapers__: You’ll want to lay down newspaper or a drop cloth underneath your spray paint canvas to prevent falling or dripping paint from staining your floors. 3. __Stencils (optional)__: If you’re not painting freehand, you can use stencils to help make your art. Stencils can be made from mylar, wood, or even a customized, pre-cut piece of cardboard. 4. __Safety gear__: Wear goggles, gloves, and a mask to help protect your body, eyes, and lungs from any harmful materials or fumes. Always wear the right equipment when you’re handling paint products or other chemical substances. 5. __Paint thinner__: Paint thinner or acetone products can help you erase any painting errors you’ve made, letting you clear your surface and start over. Once you’ve gathered your materials and chosen your surface, you’re ready to start making your spray paint art. Here is a basic tutorial for making spray paint art. 1. __Work outdoors or in a ventilated area__. Whether you’re painting a wall mural or on a canvas, you should make your spray paint art outside. Make sure there is plenty of air circulation in your work area to prevent damaging your lungs with paint fumes. 2. __Prepare your surface__. If you’re creating wall art, clean your surface before you start painting on it. Make sure that you’re using the right paint for the type of canvas you’re working on. Lay down any drop cloths or newspapers to keep your other surfaces protected from any overspray. 3. __Plan your design__. If you have a specific art piece you want to make, sketch it out on paper or through a software program first. You can also trace your design out with pencil, or use a stencil. 4. __Paint your design__. Whether using a stencil or a tracing, stick with your design plan when creating art to avoid mistakes. Keep your paint thinner or other cleaning tools close by to quickly rectify any errors you make during your spray painting process. Let your art dry thoroughly before handling or touching it. Grab the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and plumb the depths of your creativity with the help of abstract artist Futura, modern artist Jeff Koons, and stage designer Es Devlin. Our exclusive video lessons will teach you to do things like utilize color and scale, explore the beauty in everyday objects, and so much more. Making spray paint art is a fun and creative way to add some color to an outdoor area, or to your very own home. Follow this guide for a series of tips to help you create your first work of spray paint art.