How to Find the Best Spray Paint for Metal

When it comes to fixing up an old and rusty item, nothing works quite as well as a coat of paint. And no paint works as well in a refurbishing project as a can of spray paint.

The problem is, there are so many options on the market, and it can get overwhelming trying to find the best paint for each item you are planning to refurbish. But, with Craft & Stitch here to help you, this no longer needs to be the case.

I believe that finding the right type of spray paint should not be overwhelming, so in this article, I am going to walk you through the process of how to find the best spray paint for use on metal.

I will show you what features to look for when shopping for spray paint, and then, I will present you with some recommended products. Once you have finished reading this article, you should have no problems finding the best paint for any upcoming projects.

What Features to Consider

To make it easier to shop for spray paint, always consider the following features:

Color

When you select a can of spray paint based on color alone, you may end up with a subpar product. Yes, you should definitely try to get the color you want, but you shouldn’t let this one feature guide your decision. Make sure to get a paint type or brand that will actually work on the project you have in mind, and then select a color.

Coverage

Take note of how much paint you need to cover your project, so you get enough and don’t have to make multiple trips to a store. Spray paint cans will list the suggested coverage area in square feet, so you should be able to estimate how many cans you need.

Drying Time

Check the drying time listed on the can of paint, so you know how long to wait before applying a second coat or touching the painted areas.

Durability

Selecting a durable type of spray paint will depend on what item you are painting and where the item will be stored. If the item you are painting is not going to be used much and will only be kept indoors, you can opt for interior paint. Since the item should be out of the natural elements, there’s no reason to get expensive or overly protective spray paint.

However, if the item you are painting is kept outdoors, you should get exterior paint that is also rust-resistant. This is an obvious choice because you want to protect that item from UV rays and precipitation.

Interior paint will not protect from either of these natural elements and will, in fact, crack and fade, which can lead to the oxidation of the metal underneath.

Finish

There are five different types of paint finish to choose from. Let’s talk about each one so that you can decide which is best for your project.

• Eggshell – This type of finish is good for covering small imperfections, and it will shine slightly when light hits it; however, it is not a very good option to use on an item that will be washed frequently.
• High-gloss – This type of finish is perfect to use on items that require frequent cleaning since it is so slick; however, it is not a good option to use if you are trying to hide any imperfections on your item.
• Matte – This type of finish is the best to use if you need to cover a lot of imperfections on the item you are painting; however, it will not shine even slightly, and it is not easy to clean.
• Satin – This type of finish produces a velvet-like surface; however, it is not the best option if you know that the item you are painting will need frequent touch-ups.
• Semi-gloss – This type of finish is less glossy than a high-gloss option; however, it comes with the same durability and is nearly as washable as a high-gloss paint.

Nozzle

Since painting with a spray can is hard on your fingers and hands, choose one with a wide nozzle. The wider the nozzle, the less stress you’ll feel on your fingers and hands. When your fingers and hands are not fatigued, they can work longer, and consequently, you may finish your project quicker.

Paint Base

There are two types of paint bases from which to choose. These options are:

Oil-based Paint

Pros

• Durable
• Usually does not require a base coat.

Cons

• Requires mineral spirits to clean up painting equipment
• Usually has a strong smell

Water-based Paint

Pros

• It does not smell as strongly as oil-based paint
• It can be cleaned up with soap and water

Cons

• Requires that the surface of the item you are painting be primed

Primer

The item you plan to paint should be clean and smooth before applying a coat of paint. If it is not, you should definitely wash, dust, and sand it. While this is a non-negotiable, applying a separate layer of a primer is optional.

If you don’t want to add an extra step to complete your project, look for a can of spray paint that has combined the paint and primer. This will eliminate at least one step and allow you to complete your project quicker.

The Top Products on the Market

Now that we have covered the essential features of spray paint, we can begin to look at some of the best products on the market. To keep your personal workload light, I’ve pulled together some brands that I think you will love to use for any upcoming projects. These product recommendations have been gathered using the following criteria:

• Color – I have gathered brands that offer a wide variety of colors, so you don’t have to settle for a color that is just so-so.
• Customer Reviews & Ratings – All the products in this list must have at least a 4-star customer rating.
• Finish – I have gathered brands that offer a wide variety of finishes, so you have plenty of options for your projects.
• Nozzle – I will let you know in the description of the paint what customers think of the nozzle.
• Paint Base – I have gathered both oil-based and water-based products, so you will have plenty of options to consider.

The Best Interior Spray Paint for Metal: Rust-Oleum Topcoat Metallic Spray Paint

If you need to add a little sheen to your metallic items, then this is a great interior spray paint. With it, you can revive rusty metal pieces inside your home, so they look brand new.

Color Options: Available in copper and brass.

Customer Rating: This product is currently rated at a 4.7-star rating.

Nozzle: This has moderately good review concerning the nozzle design

Paint-base: This is not listed

Is this Good Paint for Automobiles?

This paint product is not recommended for use with automobiles.

How to Apply this Paint

1. Prep the surface of the item you are painting by cleaning and/or sanding it.
2. Hold the nozzle six inches away from the item’s surface.
3. Spray the surface while slowly moving across it.  Spray it solidly and do not stop until you have reached the end of the item.
4. Allow the paint to completely dry before adding any more layers.
5. Apply a sealant if necessary.

Pros

• It covers an area of 12 square feet
• Reapplication drying time is one hour.
• Designed to resist rust when applied properly
• Designed to be used on nearly any surface

Cons

• Customers have commented that the paint is not as shiny as they would like
• Customers have commented that it never fully dries and should not be used on items that you touch
• Requires a primer before use

The Best Matte Spray Paint for Metal: Krylon Colormax Spray Paint and Primer

When you need to paint a metal item but don’t want a shiny finish, look for this paint. As a paint and primer in one, it will help get the project done quickly. With its large button spray tip, it will make spray painting less fatiguing. 

Color Options: Available in twelve different colors.

Customer Rating: This product is currently rated at a 4.6-star rating.

Nozzle: Customers agree that the nozzle on this paint is not well made.

Paint-base: This is an oil-based paint.

Is this Good Paint for Automobiles?

This paint product is not recommended for use with automobiles.

How to Apply this Paint

1. Clean the surface of the item you plan to paint.
2. If necessary, sand the surface of the item you plan to paint.
3. Apply a primer and allow it time to set.
4. Spray the item’s surface thoroughly.
5. Allow the paint to completely dry before applying any other layers.

Pros

• Customers are raving about how great this paint looks on their projects
• Includes a primer
• It covers an area of 25 square feet
• Designed with a big button spray tip

Cons

• Some customers have had issues with the color of the paint they used

The Best Rust-resistant Spray Paint for Metal: Rust-Oleum High-Performance Enamel Spray Paint

This is a great option if you are painting something that needs protection from moisture. With its glossy finish and rust-resistant formula, this paint will provide you peace of mind when used on outdoor furniture, yard ornaments, or even lawn equipment.

Color Options: Available in twelve different colors, white is available in flat, gloss, and semi-gloss finishes.

Customer Rating: This product is currently rated at a 4.7-star rating.

Nozzle: Several customers have commented that the nozzle used for this spray paint is cheap and faulty.

Paint-base: This is an oil-based paint.

Is this Good Paint for Automobiles?

This paint product is not recommended for use with automobiles.

How to Apply this Paint

1. Prepare the surface of the item you are painting.
2. Shake the paint can.
3. Spray the item from end to end without stopping.
4. Allow the paint to dry before applying a second coat.

Pros

• Customers are raving about the nice coverage, high gloss, and ease of application provided by this brand of paint
• Designed to resist rust when applied properly
• It covers an area of 14 square feet
• Reapplication drying time is one hour

Cons

• Customers have had issues with the cans not spraying properly
• Customers have had issues with the paint not drying properly

The Best Satin Spray Paint for Metal: Rust-Oleum Universal Enamel Spray Paint

Give your metal items a little shine with this spray paint brand. It’s great for touching up indoor items by adding just the right amount of sheen to them.

Color Options: Available in three different colors – satin black, satin espresso brown, and satin white.

Customer Rating: This product is currently rated at a 4.7-star rating.

Nozzle: Customers have had issues with the nozzle leaking and getting clogged.

Paint-base: This is an oil-based paint.

Is this Good Paint for Automobiles?

This paint product is not recommended for use with automobiles.

How to Apply this Paint

1. Prepare the surface of the item you intend to paint by cleaning it.
2. Slowly move along the surface of the item as you spray the paint.
3. Spray the item from end to end without stopping.
4. Allow the paint time to dry before adding a second coat.

Pros

• Designed to be used on nearly any surface
• It covers an area of 15 square feet
• Rust-resistant
• Dries to the touch in half an hour

Cons

• Poor nozzle design

The Best Semi-gloss Spray Paint for Metal: Seymour Hi-Tech Spray Paint

This is a type of spray paint that you should invest in if you frequently work on outdoor projects, especially automobiles.

Color Options: Available in 14 different colors.

Customer Rating: This product is currently rated at a 4.3-star rating.

Nozzle: One customer commented that the nozzle sprays well.

Paint-base: This is an oil-based paint.

Is this Good Paint for Automobiles?

Yes, many customers have used this paint to touch up an automobile.

How to Apply this Paint

1. Prepare the surface of the item you plan to paint.  This includes cleaning and sanding, if necessary.
2. Hold the nozzle about six inches from the item’s surface.
3. With a slow and methodical motion, spray the item’s surface from end to end without stopping.
4. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly before applying a second coat or a sealant.

Pros

• Customers are raving about how well this paint works for car repairs
• It can be used on interior or exterior projects
• Resists corrosion
• Can withstand high heat

Cons

• Some customers have had issues with getting the correct color for their project

The Best Spray Paint for Metal for Color Options: Rust-Oleum Universal Spray Paint

This brand offers nearly two dozen colors for your convenience. With so many to choose from, you should not have any concerns about finding the right one.

Color Options: Available in 23 different colors.

Customer Rating: This product is currently rated at a 4.7-star rating.

Nozzle: Many customers have made it clear that the nozzle on this paint is poorly designed

Paint-base: This is an oil-based paint.

Is this Good Paint for Automobiles?

This paint can be used to touch-up small areas on cars.  A sealant should be applied after the paint has dried.

How to Apply this Paint

1. Sand and clean the surface of the item you are painting.
2. Hold the paint can approximately six inches from the item’s surface.
3. Slowly paint the item in a slow-moving pattern from end to end.  Do not stop anywhere in the middle or you will have drips.
4. Allow the paint to dry before applying another coat or a sealant.

Pros

• Designed to be used on nearly any surface
• It covers an area of 15 square feet
• Rust-resistant
• Customers are raving about how much this paint makes items look like metal

Cons

• Poor nozzle design

The Best Water-based Spray Paint for Metal: Liquitex Professional Spray Paint

When you need water-based spray paint, this is the brand you need to get. Not only does it provide a low-odor and versatile paint, but it also offers it in one hundred unique colors.

Color Options: Available in 100 different colors

Customer Rating: This product is currently rated at a 4.4-star rating.

Nozzle: Customer comments conclude that the nozzle on this paint either clogs or leaks

Is this Good Paint for Automobiles?

This paint product is not recommended for use with automobiles.

How to Apply this Paint

1. Prepare the surface of the item you plan to paint by cleaning and/or sanding it.
2. Hold the nozzle of the can six inches away from the item’s surface.
3. Spray the item in an even and slow-moving motion from end to end without stopping.
4. Allow the paint to dry before applying further layers.

Pros

• Customers are raving about the color selection this paint offers
• Low odor
• It can be used on interior and exterior items

Cons

• It is recommended that a clear sealant be used over this paint
• Faulty nozzle

FAQs

Concluding Thoughts

Refurbishing furniture and other decorative items are something I enjoy doing each spring. It brings new colors and vibrancy to my home and yard.

I plan to get a few cans of Liquitex Professional Spray Paint to update some items around my home next year. Since this brand offers so many amazing colors and can be used indoors and outdoors, I am certain that all my projects will look amazing anywhere I place them.

Hopefully, this article has helped you find the right spray paint for your upcoming projects. If this has been a help to you, let us assist you with all your future painting projects.

We have great articles on finding the best paint for wood, glass, or any other painting medium. No matter what project you have in mind, we can help you find the right paint.

Research Citations:

• Best of Machinery
• Krylon