Choosing the perfect spray paint for your next street art is an intricate job. Several types of graffiti dominate this industry, so artists have to select a colorant that resonates with their style.
You have to make sure the paint works well on your chosen wall and achieves the desired results.
Graffiti art dates back to the late 1500s, when artists would carve images on the walls of holy sanctuaries and other public places. Today, artists use water and oil-based aerosol paint to draw on public surfaces. They use graffiti to express themselves and, at the same time, entertain their viewers.
Other painters use this art to rebuke social injustices or commend virtues within their society. If you are one such artist, looking for the best spray paint for graffiti ensures that you create clean and long-lasting art.
Let’s go through some of the best spray paint brands worth checking out for your next DIY projects.
‘Graffiti’ in a Nutshell
Wikipedia defines graffiti as writings or drawings made on a wall or other surface without permission and within public view. Some US citizens think of street art as a menace, while others find it attractive and meaningful.
And while this form of art is still illegal in several cities, others like Queens Way, New York, and Venice, California, already allow street artists to legally practice their craft. The first metal spray cans produced in the late 1800s were bulky and weren’t fit for commercial use.
It wasn’t until 1949 that canned spray paint found its way into stores for commercial use. Ever since then, graffiti artists use aerosol paint to create street art. If you have upcoming craft projects but don’t know what paints to use, here is a list of the ten best spray paints for graffiti to consider.
Read also: The Best Graffiti Markers in 2024
Best Spray Paint for Graffiti Reviews
1. Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Gloss Black
This colorant provides a glossy finish to your art, allowing it to stand out. Oil-based paints do not wash off easily, so your street project will last for ages, especially since the varnish can withstand harsh weather conditions.
The aerosol is chip-resistant, so whether you spray one or multiple layers, this feature allows you to achieve a smooth and even finish. Seeing that this paint does not chip off, it accentuates the longevity of your art.
Each spray bottle holds a maximum of 12 ounces of high quality paint and covers up to 12 sq. ft. With six cans in the pack, you’re sure to cover an expansive space.
Rust-Oleum provides formulas that dry within 20 minutes of surface contact. And while this aerosol dries quickly, it has a curing time of up to 48 hours.
The most significant property this high quality paint hold is that it is multipurpose. It bonds well on metallic, wooden, plastic, plaster, masonry, and unglazed surfaces.
This gloss black spray comes in a lightweight can that’s easy on your hands. It also has an easy-to-handle nozzle that enables you to spray surfaces effortlessly.
In case you leave the can uncovered and its valve clogs, there is no need to dispose of it. You can quickly unclog the valve at home using mineral spirits. Twist the tip and pull it off, then soak it in the spirits for a few minutes or until you unblock the valve, then place it back on the can.
Aside from gloss black, Rust-Oleum provides various vibrant colors, including desert rose, semi-gloss black, evening navy, deep teal, and citrus fields.
On the flip side, the cans clog easily, so you have to be careful not to expose the valve to air when you’re not spray painting. Otherwise, you’ll spend significant time trying to unclog the valves. Still, this set has a quite good numbers of customer reviews. And it’s price point is also not so high.
2. Krylon Color Maxx Paint+ Primer
Graffiti artists can enjoy the efficiency of this two-in-one spray paint. It has a combined formula that has both primer and paint. As such, this spray paint reduces your need to get both products and reduces your application time by almost half.
This feature also provides a clean, even finish to your project. You’ll enjoy smooth, premium coverage and durability.
The manufacturer recommends the use of this graffiti art paint on windows and glass surfaces. However, you can equally use it on other surfaces like wood, metal, plastic, wicker, and ceramic.
Each of this high-pressure spray can has enough paint to cover up to 25 sq. ft surface when you use a single coat.
Krylon Color Maxx Paint + Primer has a wide button spray that offers ease of use. Push the button to dispense its contents and release it to stop spraying. And now that this can is aerosol, you can spread the paint in any position without disconnects.
When looking for a more subtle and unique matte finish, use Krylon Color Maxx Paint+ Primer for outstanding indoor use and outdoor projects.
Since 1947, Krylon has produced long-lasting spray paint and has established its footing in this industry. The manufacturer allows you to choose from flat, gloss, satin, metallic, matte, primer, semi-flat, and semi-gloss styles.
It isn’t advisable to use this spray paint in an enclosed room if it is not well ventilated. The contents of the can contain chemicals that may irritate the skin, eyes, and nose.
3. Montana Cans Graffiti Street Art
A single can of Montana Art spray holds 400ml of content. This paint offers you great coverage, which you can use on an area of 25 sq. ft or more.
The spray paint works with a high-pressure mechanism that dispenses thin and light layers of colorant each time.
Montana paint cans are best for creating bold DIY projects. With the help of a market survey, the manufacturer provides a selection of vibrant colors popular with most street artists.
The can’s tip has a small nozzle that’s easy to control, making this colorant ideal for both rookies and professionals. However, if you don’t fancy the manufacturer’s nozzle, you can replace it with one of your preference.
Twist and pull the valve to detach the nozzle, then push and twist your replacement nozzle onto the tip of the can.
Montana color sends you a pack of 12 different spray paint shades, reducing your need to purchase them continually. You can use these colorants to paint a well-aerated indoor space, but the manufacturer recommends outdoor use.
There isn’t a need to worry about repainting your art every year after winter. Thanks to its high-grade formula, Montana paints can withstand extreme weathers without losing their luster. The colors do not fade, and the spray paint is flake resistant.
Unfortunately, the nozzle comes in small size, making it difficult for users to control the paint’s flow. For a steadier grip, consider getting a bigger valve.
4. Montana Black Spray Paint for Graffiti
Montana Black Spray Paint operates using a high-pressure valve system. This means that you can cover a large area within a short time, especially if you’re using a larger cap. You can achieve such results because the pressure within the bottle forces the paint out faster.
The can is compatible with all Montana caps, giving you a chance to try out different styles and finishes using the same paint can. This spray paint is also weather resilient and winter-proof. It has a formula that can produce impressive results at any time of the year.
Montana is a range of matte spray paints, which come in more than 180 shades that will give you a variety of options to peruse through. You can pick from sets of montana gold, copper, and silver chrome metallic colors. These are the most popular colors.
Another benefit of choosing Montana is that the paint dries very quickly. Thanks to the nitro-lacquer combination, it takes less time to cure.
This feature allows you to paint several coats over the original one frequently. Additionally, you end up with clean, blotch-free work. You’ll become a fan of this product for sure after using.
You may want to take it easy on the cap since it’s the fragile type. One miscalculated move will send you back to the store to get a new cover.
5. Rust-Oleum Apple Red Metallic Spray Paint
Top on the list of benefits is Rust-Oleum Metallic spray’s accessories. The spray contains tiny metallic flakes that provide a shiny and elegant finish. This paint would be ideal for painters looking to create a bold statement.
This brand specializes in paint production for a little over 100 years to create high-end products that offer quality coverage. A comfortable tip with a comfy pad that’s easy to maneuver is one of its noticeable features. Additionally, you can use this product at any angle now that it works using optimum pressure.
Rust-Oleum Metallic spray has an oil-based formula. This intricate combination keeps the paint fixed on surfaces for longer.
As is the case with other oil-based paints, painters can use Rust-Oleum during extreme climatic conditions. Even better, it can take on UV rays effortlessly.
Best spray paint options are multipurpose. They can bond seamlessly on multiple surfaces such as metal, wood, plastic, concrete, and vinyl. However, it is recommended for use on masonry surface areas.
The 14.4-ounce can contains 11oz worth of vaporized paint. Graffiti writers can use Rust-Oleum Metallic Spray over 15 sq. ft surface area, and they need not use a primer before using this one.
Remember one thing that, after using this paint, you will have to wait for at least one hour before applying a second coat.
6. Pintyplus Aqua Spray Paint Set- Water Based
If you are a novice graffiti artist looking for spray paint that you can practice with, this Pinty Plus Aqua Spray Paint is your best option. It has a water-based formula, which is easy to erase. So, if you’re not satisfied with the outcome, a brush, soap, and water will help you erase all traces of your art.
These 4.2oz graffiti water paint can features multiple color choices that you can mix to create even more color combinations.
A pack of eight carries aurora red, crimson red, orange apricot, green, kiwi, true blue, violet aubergine, black, and white shades.
A matte finish is what this water-based spray paint set offers the user. It takes an hour for the paint to dry, but you’re free to apply a second layer of color half an hour after the first application.
One of the noticeable features is its odor-free nature, that has made it one of the least toxic aerosol paints available in the market. This characteristic is not only beneficial to your health, but it also helps you to work unnoticed.
Artists don’t need any special manual to learn how to use this water-based graffiti paint. The procedure is pretty much the same as in the case of other spray paints. Shake as you use.
One significant demerit of using this paint is that it takes substantial time to dry. So, it may take you longer to complete the work if you’re laboring on a big project.
7. MTN Spray Water Based Paint Packs
Montana colors not only specializes in oily spray paint. This manufacturer also creates an array of aqua-based products such as these MTN spray paint packs that are equally great. This workshop pack holds 16 cans of multi-colored paints.
DIY enthusiasts, especially students, can benefit from this MTN pack since it’s easy to wash off. The paint sets well on cardboards, concrete, glass, metal and other items.
Painters have to use a sealant of some kind to keep the MTN paint in place once their projects are complete.
It’s worth noting that the user has to hold the nozzle a bit far from the surface they’re coloring to achieve even results.
And while this MTN paint is odor-free and non-toxic, using it in poorly ventilated rooms isn’t a great idea because the paint particles flying in the atmosphere dry fast. Washing these dry particles from your skin, nostrils, ears, or eyes is a tough task.
On the flip side, these water-based paints are low pressure, meaning that they work better on absorbent surfaces such as canvas and cardboards.
Controlling the nozzle becomes difficult once there’s little paint left in the can. You have to press the nozzle harder to get the contents of the container out.
The MTN paint also foams when you place it too close to non-absorbent surfaces, so you might want to take a step back from the painting surface before starting your project.
8. Montana Black Complete Artist Set
Are you looking to take your graffiti skills to the next level? This kit could help you realize your dream, especially since you take home 24 cans of multi-colored paint. You get at least two shades of each of the available popular colors that range from red, blue, green, yellow, purple, white, black, and pink.
These cans have a standard artist-grade cap that’s easy to control, but if you’re not comfortable using the manufacturer’s cap, feel free to get one that suits your preference.
You’ll be happy to know that this Montana Black Artist Set is compatible with all artist-grade caps that the market has to offer.
Whether it rains, snows, or shines all year, your spray paint art remains the same, thanks to its color longevity. The paint is UV and winter resistant.
Therefore, if you have street mural projects planned during these seasons, you shouldn’t worry about creating less attractive artwork.
This set operates using a high-pressure mechanism. This feature allows you to spray faster and still obtain top-notch coverage results of up to 32 sq. ft. The nitro-combination-based formula is responsible for quick-drying, giving you ample time to complete your job.
The greatest drawback that comes with getting this kit is the financial implications. Additionally, using this product in enclosed environments isn’t advisable because of the risk of inhaling the toxic contents.
9. Molotow Belton Spray Paint for Graffiti
This is another one of the best spray paints in the list. Molotow Belton range has a wide array of shades. Whatever color you’re thinking of, Molotow Belton probably has it. Belton gives you the flexibility to choose from 250 custom shades that are very popular.
The manufacturer uses quadruple-ground car pigments to make these Molotow Premium paints, which is why they are permanent, UV, and winter-resistant, as well as lightfast.
If you want to create a masterpiece using a combination of art markers, Belton spray paint combines effortlessly with oil pastels, markers, and acrylic paint.
Feel free to proceed with your winter ventures knowing that this paint won’t chip or weather away, and you can work outdoors in low temperatures as low as -10°.
Because of the toxicity level of the aerosols in these cans, artists should use this paint outdoors. And if they have to work indoors, they have to do it in an exceptionally well-ventilated space or opt for a less toxic spray range from the same manufacturer.
These bottles come with a Flowmaster’s vale, which is responsible for even finishes. This valve also has anti-drip properties, which aids in creating blot-free art murals. The cherry on top of the icing is the color-coded caps. These help you identify the color you’re using hassle-free.
The only flip side to getting this product is that it is toxic. Street artists who want to use Molotow Belton spray cans should cover up well.
Things to Consider Before Choosing The Best Spray Paint
Before you settle on particular spray paint, you need to consider a few attributes that may affect the final art quality. These are:
Color Options
The kind of project you’re working on and your graffiti-style will determine the type of colors you’ll choose. If you are a tag kind of artist, you won’t put much thought into choosing colors and paints. You only need one colorant to complete your job.
If you’re a wild style or 3D graffiti artist, you’ll have to take time to consider your color needs. The message you’re passing across, and your target audience will also dictate the kind of hues you opt for your artwork.
Are you looking for bold statements or subtle ones? Such questions will help you settle for a shade that’s perfect for your street mural.
Brand Value
Of what value is a particular brand to your street artwork? You don’t want to ship a specific brand’s spray paint aiming to use it on your graffiti, only to discover that it doesn’t resonate with the project.
Let’s say you get a gig that requires you to spray paint windows, but you guy high-end paint that doesn’t set easily on that surface. You’ll have spent hundreds of dollars on a product that won’t provide optimum results or one that you will have to store for future use.
Drying Time
Graffiti is still illegal in plenty of cities across the globe. So, most artists who draw graffiti in public places risk being persecuted for polluting the environment and nuisance. Therefore, you have to choose colorants that dry within the shortest time possible.
Such spray paints enable you to add subsequent coats quickly, complete your drawing quicker, and disappear from the scene before anyone notices you. However, if you’re hired to draw graffiti legally, you don’t need to sweat about drying time.
You should note that drying time differs from one surface to another. So, while it may take ten minutes for spray paint to dry on concrete and it’ll take twenty or more minutes to dry on a window.
Heat Resistant
A majority of the oil-based paints available on the market flake or chip when you expose them to extremely hot climatic conditions. As soon as the color begins to chip and fall off, the art loses its meaning.
Getting heat resistant paints means that you can work on the art even when it is hotter than a desert outside. The heat won’t affect the quality of the masterpiece you’re working on. A heat resistant spray paint also eliminates your need to get a primer.
And since such paints are fast drying, you’ll get an audience since it is difficult to erase dried up wall art.
Other Factors to Consider
Aside from the factors mentioned above, spray paint users have to look at other aspects that impact their health and finances, such as:
Is it non-toxic?
Aerosols contain plenty of toxic substances that may affect a frequent user. In the short term, painters who inhale these fumes will experience irritation in the eyes, ears, nose, and skin.
Before buying spray paint, search the internet for its components and see whether they are toxic. Painters should also avoid getting aerosols that have acetone, xylene, and toluene. Continuous exposure to these chemicals is hazardous to the body and could lead to chronic complications.
Waterproof
Waterproof paints last longer than their water-soluble ones. Whether or not you choose waterproof colorants depends on the kind of art you want to pull off. Your expertise in graffiti also dictates your choice of paint.
For instance, it makes no sense for a novice painter to use permanent spray paints when they are yet to master the craft. On the other hand, expert painters have a monopoly over choosing their preferable colors since they can mix both water-soluble and waterproof paint to achieve particular results.
Price Range
The best spray paint for graffiti is expensive because established brands have taken time to research the aspects that make a spray paint top-notch. Some of these brands pin exorbitant prices on their products.
If you do not have the financial muscle to get paints from such high-end companies, you can look for others who charge less. You can always purchase extra accessories to make your painting experience more exciting if you buy spray paint from low-end manufacturers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best spray paint for art?
The best spray paint for art should have four unnegotiable attributes. It must dry fast, have waterproof and fast-drying properties, and avail plenty of color options.
Q: Is Montana spray paint waterproof?
Montana color has two types of spray paints; oil and water-based colorants. Oil-based paints are waterproof since the manufacturer uses oil as a main component in the production. Water-based ones, though, are not waterproof.
Q: Montana Black vs Gold – What’s the difference?
The main feature that sets Montana gold apart from Montana black is the pressure system. Gold cans are low-pressure, while black ones are high-pressure. Low-pressure cans provide control while spraying, while optimum ones offer faster application and high coverage.
The gold series has an array of color collections that range from classic, shock, fluorescent, chrome, and transparent. On the other hand, the black series has a colorant collection limited to true, metallic, and seven power colors.
Q: Is spray paint oil-based or acrylic?
Spray paints are available in both oil and acrylic-based forms. However, oil-based paints are more common than their acrylic counterparts.
On the other hand, paints with an acrylic formula create crisp edges, but cannot blend smoothly, because they dry too fast. So, if you’re working on a big project, you may end up with contrasting results than your projections.
Oil-based paints take a little longer to dry, giving you the time to blend shades and create a smooth finish.
Q: Is it toxic to use spray paint?
Prolonged use of spray paints can be toxic, especially if you expose yourself to the paint fumes. However, some are less harmful than others, meaning that they have less lethal health and environmental impacts.
You can reduce the toxicity if you use them in an open space or an exceptionally ventilated room.
Q: Do water-based spray paints last as long as oil-based ones?
Spray paints that have an aqua formula do not last long because they dissolve in water. When it rains, or the atmosphere is moist, such colorants loosen up and wash off. Oil-based paints, however, last long since water does not affect their formulation.
Q: Can I unclog my nozzle if it’s blocked? And how can I clean it?
Yes, you can. Cleaning a nozzle is pretty simple. First, twist the cap and pull it up to detach it from the can. Depending on the type of spray you’re using, you can either use water or mineral spirits to unclog the valve.
You can use mineral spirits to dissolve oil-based sprays and unblock the valve. As for water-soluble paints, use warm water to hasten the process.
Q: Can I refill paint in aerosol can?
No, you cannot. These aerosol cans are for one time use. An attempt to tamper with the empty can will result in an explosion.
How to Remove Graffiti from Concrete?
Removing art from concrete is easy if you have graffiti remover. This liquefying agent breaks down the dry paint, making it soluble and easy to clean out. Before you learn how to remove graffiti from concrete, here are a few things to consider before and while handling such kind of remover.
- Cover your eyes, hands, and nose to avoid contact with the acid
- Do not use too much of this agent on concrete as it can damage the walls and leave visible marks
- It would be better to spray the removing agent on a warm day since warmth speeds up the liquefying process
- Elbow grease the spot for better results
- Do not shy away from using a little extra remover
- Use a spray bottle to spread the acidic agent all over the artwork
- Wash your hands and face thoroughly after removing the art from concrete surfaces.
Now that you have the prerequisite to handling graffiti remover let’s get into cleaning your concrete surface.
Spray graffiti remover over the masterpiece
Spray a generous amount of the removing agent all over the artwork. If you suspect there could be more than one coat of paint, add a little more remover.
Allow the acid to cure for at least 30 minutes
Give the acid time to work through the paint and break it down. Small tags require less curing time as opposed to expansive street art. You can scrub the art to hasten the procedure.
Pressure wash
Use a pressure washing nozzle to clear out the disseminated spray paint. If you do not achieve your desired outcomes, repeat the entire procedure
Final Thoughts
If you’re a street artist, you shouldn’t shy away from shopping for the best spray paint for graffiti art.
Sample a variety of color options available in the market to see what works best for you. And while you’re at it, remember to choose options that aren’t toxic since prolonged exposure to such elements will cause detrimental effects to your health.