Searching for the best spray paint for metal for your next art or DIY project?
Look no further!
We know how important it is to find the right product for the job, and we want to help you find the best spray paint for metal.
In this article, we'll review some of the top brands and types of spray paints for metal surfaces available on the market today.
Whether you're looking to restore an old piece of metal or create a new work of art, we have the perfect spray paint for you.
With so many different types and brands available, we're sure you'll find what you need right here.
Keep reading and browse our selection to find the best spray paints for metal to use for your next project!
How We Choose Our Selections
Trying to find the best spray paint can be really tough.
With so many different spray paint brands and types available, how can you know which one is right for you?
Not only is it hard to figure out which brand of spray paint to buy, but it's also tough to decide on the right type of spray paint.
Should you get a matte finish or a glossy finish?
What about primer?
How do you choose the right color?
Not all are spray paints for metal, so you'll want one for painting metal surfaces.
We've done all the hard work for you.
We've read through thousands of reviews on Amazon to find the best products for artists, crafters, and creators of all skill levels and making buying spray paint simple.
Whether you're looking for metallic, simple, or bright spray paints for your next project, we've got you covered.
Why We Love It
Want versatile and easy-to-use spray paints?
Look no further than Krylon Fusion All-in-One!
Ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects, this glossy white spray paint bonds perfectly to not just metal but plastic, wood, tile, PVC, and more, giving your project a sleek, modern finish.
Plus, it's perfect for keeping things simple with its clean white color.
With 12 ounces of paint in each can, you'll have plenty to work with.
This versatile spray paint is perfect for your paint job, so rest easy with this high-quality paint.
What You Should Know
Krylon Fusion All-in-One is an all-purpose spray paint that comes in a variety of colors and styles, such as matte and satin.
It is dry to the touch within 20 minutes, has a coverage of 25 square feet, and provides maximum rust protection.
You don’t need to sand or prime before you apply the paint, making it a convenient option for metal surfaces.
Krylon is America’s first spray coating, being well-trusted since 1947.
This Amazon’s Choice product is ideal for metal surfaces, and it offers a high-quality finish that is sure to last.
Why wait?
Get Krylon Fusion All-in-One today and make your next project easier than ever!
Why We Love It
If you want reliable, high-quality spray paints that can withstand the elements, look no further than Rust-Oleum Professional Enamel.
This oil-based paint is perfect for a variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, concrete, and more.
It provides excellent rust protection and a durable, attractive finish that will last for years to come.
Plus, it's perfect for larger projects as this spray paint covers 14 square feet.
Don't settle for anything less than the best - choose Rust-Oleum Professional Enamel.
What You Should Know
Rust-Oleum spray paints are the perfect way to get a new look for your metal surface that will withstand demanding environments.
The glossy finish will provide a sleek, new look, and the 23 colors will ensure that you can find the perfect match for your project.
The metal spray paint is dry to the touch within 15 minutes, and recoats within an hour.
Made in the US, this Amazon’s Choice product has industrial strength, durability, and resistance, and it fully dries within 24 hours.
Rust-Oleum spray paint for metallic surfaces is the perfect way to get a new look for your metal projects.
Add the perfect touch to your next project with Rust-Oleum Professional Enamel spray paint today!
Why We Love It
Looking to add a touch of glamour to your next DIY project?
Krylon ColorMaxx spray paint in metallic gold is just what you need!
With its brilliant sheen and smooth application, this spray paint will give any project a modern, luxurious finish.
Perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, Krylon ColorMaxx can be used on most surfaces, including metal, wood, plastic, glass, ceramic, fabric, wicker, and paper.
Plus, it provides rust protection for added durability.
What You Should Know
Krylon ColorMaxx spray paint is super easy to use, with its big button and spray tip.
It's a solvent-based spray paint, both paint and primer in one, that comes in a wide variety of colors.
It dries to the touch within 20 minutes, has a metallic spray paint finish, and covers up to 25 square feet.
Krylon is America's first spray coating and has been a highly reputable spray paint brand since 1947.
Pick up this Amazon's Choice product and start restoring, recoloring, and refreshing any desired project.
Go ahead and add that finishing touch to your next project; with Krylon ColorMaxx spray paint, it's sure to be amazing!
Why We Love It
Want to add a touch of style to your metal surfaces?
Then check out Dupli-Color Metalcast Anodized spray paint!
This high-gloss spray paint is perfect for giving your metal a new look, and comes in 9 different colors to suit your individual style.
This specially formulated spray paint provides an anodized color effect that is durable and oil, gas, and heat resistant.
Whether you're looking to change up the look of your car, bike, or any other metal surface, Dupli-Color Metalcast Anodized spray paint is the perfect choice!
What You Should Know
Dupli-Color spray paint is a great way to add a metallic finish to metal surfaces.
It comes in a can with an easy spray nozzle, and can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces.
This spray paint is heat resistant to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is made in the US.
One important note: metal surfaces should be primed before using this spray paint, in order to get the best results.
Dupli-Color metal spray paint is an Amazon's #1 Best Seller, so you can be confident that you're getting a high-quality product.
Whether you're looking to add some shine to your car's rims or want to give metal furniture a fresh look, Dupli-Color spray paint is a great option for any metallic surface.
Pick up this spray paint and see what you can achieve!
Best Gloss Enamel Spray Paint for Metal
Rust-Oleum Gloss Protective Enamel Spray Paint
Why We Love It
Seeking for a paint that will protect your surfaces from rust and corrosion?
Look no further than Rust-Oleum Gloss Protective Enamel spray paint!
This oil-based formula provides a durable, protective coating that resisted weather and corrosion.
It's perfect for both exterior and interior surfaces, including metal, wood, concrete, masonry, and more.
Plus, the glossy finish adds a fresh shine to all your projects.
These 12-ounce spray paints come in a wide variety of colors, so you're sure to find the perfect match for your needs.
What You Should Know
If you're looking for metal spray paint that will provide lasting protection against rust, Rust-Oleum is the way to go.
This Amazon's Choice product is equipped with a comfort tip and any-angle technology, making painting easy.
It covers 15 square feet and dries within 2-4 hours.
Rust-Oleum spray paint is made in the US and provides excellent abrasion, fading, and chipping resistance.
If you want a quality metal spray paint that will resist rust and provide lasting protection, Rust-Oleum is the way to go.
Spray Paint FAQs
Finding the right supplies can be overwhelming.
There are countless brands and options available, and sometimes you don't even know where to start.
Dwindling the endless selection down to the best options is super time consuming.
If you have a project to complete, you want to know the best tool so you can get to work and get it done.
We've compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about spray paint used for metal, so you can make an informed decision before you make that purchase.
Whether you're looking to expand your art supplies, for the perfect paint for you next project, or for the perfect gift for the creators in your life, after reading this guide you'll leave feeling confident.
How do you prep metal for spray painting?
The first step is to clean the surface of the metal.
You can do this by scrubbing it with soap and water, then allowing it to dry completely.
If there are any areas of rust, you'll need to remove them before proceeding.
Once the metal is clean and dry, you can begin lightly sanding it with fine-grit sandpaper.
This will help create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.
Next, apply a primer designed for use on metal surfaces.
This will help the paint stick better and provide additional protection against rust and corrosion.
Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to painting.
When choosing a paint for your project, keep in mind that not all paints are created equal.
Some paints are specifically designed for use on metal surfaces, while others are not.
If you want the best results, be sure to choose a paint that is designed for use on metal.
There are a wide variety of paint tools, such as paint primer combination, oil-based enamel paints, aerosol paint, metallic paint, acrylic paint, oil latex paints, and more.
You'll want a good spray paint from a reliable brand to get the job done, such as Krylon ColorMaster paint or Design Master aerosol paints.
Make sure you complete surface preparation for your DIY projects to make sure the paint dries properly and adheres to the surface.
Do you need to prime metal before spray painting?
Metal needs to be primed before you spray paint it in order to get an even coat and to avoid the paint from chipping off.
You can either use a primer specifically meant for metal or a universal primer that will work with both metal and other materials.
There are different types of primers depending on the kind of metal you're working with; zinc chromate, corrosion resistant, and heat resistant are a few common ones.
Make sure to do some research on which primer is best for your project, and read the instructions on the can carefully so that you apply it correctly.
If you don't prime the metal first, the paint will likely chip off very quickly.
Can I spray paint metal without sanding first?
It is possible to spray paint metal without sanding, but it is not recommended.
To spray paint metal correctly, it's best to sand and cleanse your surface prior to painting metal.
The finish will be much smoother if you take the time to sand the metal first.
If you do decide to spray paint metal without sanding, make sure that you clean the surface thoroughly and remove all of the grease and grime.
The paint will not adhere properly if the surface is not clean.
Do yourself a favor and clean the surface so the paint adheres properly.
Also, be sure to use a primer before painting, as this will help improve the adhesion of the paint.
What do you clean metal with after sanding?
There are a few different options for cleaning metal after sanding, depending on the level of cleaning you need.
For light cleaning, you can simply use soap and water.
However, for more heavy-duty cleaning, you may need to use a harsher cleanser, such as vinegar or ammonia.
You can also use a commercial metal cleaner.
Whichever option you choose, be sure to rinse the metal thoroughly afterwards to remove any residue.
Can you use vinegar to clean metal before painting?
Yes, you can use vinegar to clean metal before spray painting.
Vinegar is a mild acid that can help remove surface dirt, oxidation, and other residue from surfaces like metal.
Be sure to rinse the metal thoroughly after cleaning with vinegar to remove all of the vinegar and any residues.
Then you can proceed with painting your metal surface.
Is it okay to spray paint over rust?
While it is possible to spray paint over rust, it is not recommended.
Rust is an oxidation of the metal and will continue to eat away at the metal underneath the paint.
This will cause the paint to eventually fail and peel off.
If you must paint over rust, be sure to use a rust converter first which will chemically convert the rust into a primer that can then be painted over.
Removing rust prior to spray painting metal will save you in the long run, so do yourself a favor and get the paint job done right the first time around.
How do you remove rust from paint on metal?
You can remove rust from paint on metal using a variety of methods before spray painting.
For light rust, you can use white vinegar or lime juice.
If the rust is more severe, you can use sandpaper or a wire brush.
However, if the rust is really bad, you may need to use harsher chemicals like muriatic acid or oxalic acid.
Whichever method you choose, make sure to protect your skin and eyes and work in a well-ventilated area.
Also, be sure to test the cleaner on a small area first to make sure it doesn't damage the paint.
What is the fastest way to remove rust from metal?
The fastest way to remove rust from metal is by using a chemical rust remover.
There are many different products available on the market, and they all work by quickly dissolving the iron oxide that forms on steel or other metals when they're exposed to oxygen and water.
Just follow the instructions on the package, and you should be able to remove rust from your metal objects in no time.
How do you get rust off hard to reach places?
There are a few ways to get rust off hard to reach places.
One is to use a wire brush.
Another is to try and sand it off.
You could also use a chemical rust remover.
There are also rust removal products that come with an extension sprayer so that you can reach hard to reach places.
However, if the rust is really bad, it might be best just to leave it alone.
What is the best homemade rust remover?
There are many different ways to remove rust, but the best homemade rust remover is a combination of white vinegar and baking soda.
To remove light rust, mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar with 1 cup of warm water.
Soak the object in the solution for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush.
Rinse with clean water and dry.
For heavier rust, make a paste using 2 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar.
Apply to the object and let sit for 15-30 minutes before scrubbing off.
Rinse with clean water and dry.
You can also use lemon juice, citric acid, or oxalic acid.
Be sure to test the cleaner on a small area first to make sure it doesn't damage the paint.
What is anodizing, and what's its benefit?
Anodizing is an electrolytic process that creates a durable, corrosion-resistant coating on metal surfaces.
Aluminum is the most common metal to be anodized, but other metals such as titanium and zinc can also be anodized.
The anodizing process involves immersing the metal object in an acidic solution and running an electric current through the solution.
This causes a chemical reaction that forms a protective oxide layer on the surface of the metal.
Anodizing provides a number of benefits over other methods of protecting metal surfaces from corrosion, including improved durability, abrasion resistance, and thermal stability.
Depending on your project, heat resistance can be a great benefit.
Anodized aluminum surfaces are also very easy to clean and maintain.
If you are looking for a spray paint that will provide a durable, corrosion-resistant finish, then anodized spray paint is the best option.
Anodized spray paint is available in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect color to match your project.
Whether you are looking to restore an old metal object or create a new one, anodized spray paint is the best way to achieve a high-quality finish.
What's the best way to use spray paint and get even coats?
Generally, the best way to use spray paint is to hold the can 8-10 inches away from the surface you're painting, and to apply even strokes while moving your arm in a side-to-side motion.
Spray paint is also best applied when the surface is slightly warmer than room temperature and when there isn't any wind.
Additionally, outdoors surfaces should be cleaned before painting in order to get rid of any dirt or debris that could interfere with the paint's adhesion.
When applying spray paint indoors, it's important to make sure that the area is well ventilated.
Assuming you're using an aerosol spray paint cans:
1) Take off the cap and hold the can about 8-10 inches away from the surface you're painting.
Start with light, even strokes while moving your arm from side to side.
Overlap each stroke by 50%.
Keep the can the same distance from the surface as you spray.
If you hold it too close, the paint will be thick and uneven.
If you hold it too far away, the paint will be light and spotty.
Do several light coats rather than one heavy coat.
Light coats will dry faster and are less likely to drip or run.
Allow each coat to dry for at least 30 minutes before applying the next one.
If you're using spray paint on a large project, it's best to paint one section at a time and then move on to the next section.
This will help you avoid accidentally smudging wet paint with the paint spray.
Once you're finished painting, put the cap back on the can and store it in a cool, dry place.
Spray paint is a great way to achieve a smooth, even finish on surfaces, including metal furniture.
With a little practice, you'll be able to get the perfect result every time.
The Best Metal Spray Paint for You
So, what is the perfect spray paint for your needs?
After hours of research reading thousands of Amazon customer reviews, we’ve found the top picks for all levels of artists, hobbyists, and DIY creators.
Whether you're just starting out, have done a few projects before, or are a professional with a vast wealth of experience, there is a perfect paint for your next project!
We hope our findings have armed you with the necessary information, so you can walk away happy with your new spray paint!
Whichever you choose, we hope you have fun exploring the world of spray paint!
Don't forget to tap the button to check Amazon for the best prices on metal spray paints!
Thanks for reading and here's to your awesome, new spray art!
Spray paint has many uses and works on a variety of surfaces, so it's a great addition to anyone's art kit!
Want a a tutorial on how to spray paint metal? Check out Stacy Verdick Case's video!
If you'd like to see artwork I've made, you can find some at Redbubble, TeePublic, and TeeSpring.
And if you'd like to listen while creating like I do, you can get a 30-day free trial of Amazon Prime Music or Two Free Audiobooks from Audible Plus!
I love listening to a great book and great songs while immersing myself in the creative process!
And if you want to take advantage of 2-day shipping, get a free 30-day trial of Amazon Prime!
If you enjoy painting, you might be interested in other forms of paint.
Check out some of our other art supply articles: