Spray Paint vs Brush Paint Furniture – Which one is better?

Spray Paint vs Brush Paint Furniture? Whenever we make DIY makeovers for our homes, we often use varnish to refurbish our furniture. 

Some people use brushing, where you use a paintbrush in applying the color. However, others use sprays that comes in a can.

Choosing between spray paint vs brush paint furniture is challenging, especially if you don’t know its difference.

There are many discussions regarding which one is better and the overall ideal choice, but some are still indecisive.

With that, we will help you weigh its pros and cons, as well as the recommended method that you can use in retouching your furniture.

Spray Paint or Brush Paint Outdoor Furniture

First and foremost, the colored varnish that you’ll use should match the material of your furniture.

It is because some methods may not apply to your household property. By using the wrong approach and materials, certain problems may come along your way.

To help you with that, here are some factors that you can consider in deciding between spray paint or brush paint outdoor furniture.

Furniture Material

The furniture material is a vital factor to consider when it comes to choosing the pigment.

If you are planning to use spray colors for your furniture, here is the list of materials that it works on:

• Aluminum
• Glass
• Plastic
• Vinyl
• Wood
• Surfaces with existing color

On the other hand, brushing is flexible when it comes to furniture material. It means that you can use it for different furniture materials.

Pigment Material

The spray material is oil-based, so it gives a longer-lasting finish. It’s also easier to clean since you don’t need to wash brushes and buckets.

When you use it, make sure to wear a respirator mask because it contains toxic materials with an unpleasant smell. It is commonly used for outdoor varnishing, so ventilation won’t be a problem.

Brush paint contains latex that is less toxic and can be used for indoors. However, you will also need other materials like brushes and buckets.

If you want to have a nice-looking appearance, then you should use a high-quality brush with different angles.

When you use the brush method, you have an advantage when it comes to your choice of colors.

You can mix different colors to modify those you already have. However, mixing colors using spray may not look good, especially if you are a beginner.

Types of Outdoor Furniture

When doing DIY home makeovers, segregate those that need minimal retouch from those that need significant changes.

Using sprays are best for those with minimal damages or small furniture. You can use it for chairs, benches, stools, and small tables.

Brushing is suitable for large objects because it can cover more surface area. For faster application on flat surfaces, you can use a foam roller with round edges.

If you only need to retouch small sections, you can use small brushes with fine tips.

Spray Paint vs Brush Paint Cabinets

Cabinets require regular retouches to maintain their quality. Also, if you want to have a theme for your house, the color of your cabinets must match with the other furniture.

If you are still undecided between spray paint vs brush paint cabinets, here are some tips for you.

Tip #1: Furniture Finish

There’s also a difference in spray paint vs brush paint furniture when it comes to its finish. If you want to achieve a glossy and lacquer finish, then you can go with the spray.

You only need one coat, and the finish is already good to go. It’s also faster to dry and simple to apply.

When brushing, you can also achieve a good finish, but it highly depends on the tools that you use.

You may need to apply several coatings before you achieve your desired appearance. Since it needs more coating, it will take some time before it completely dries.

Tip #2: Color Grip

One of the disadvantages of using sprays is its poor adhesion. Through time, you will notice patchy spots because the color starts to fall off.

If you use the other one, the grip is better and can last for a longer time.

Spray Paint vs Brush Paint Metal

Spray paint vs brush paint metal gives off a different kind of finish. Sprays is commonly used for metal surfaces. It is because it’s more efficient and can effortlessly create an even coating.

If you want to refurbish it quickly, then this might be the best method for you.

Using the brushing method will make it challenging to achieve a good finish. It is because the surface of a metal is smooth, and brush marks will appear.

However, if you opt to use this, here are some techniques that might be helpful for you.

Step 1: Clean with mineral spirits

Before you start, clean the metal with a wet rug dipped in mineral spirits. Leave the object for five (5) to ten (10) minutes for it to dry.

Step 2: Mix mineral spirits with oil-based pigment

After drying the object, add some mineral spirit with the pigment. You can mix it using a stick or a rod. Continue to add the mineral spirit until the liquid no longer looks thick.

However, make sure to not overly dilute the pigment. This mixture will create a smoother-looking application.

Step 3: Brush with minimal pressure

As you apply the color, move your brush from left to right. Start with a thin first coat so the metal will not be completely covered.

Brush with minimal pressure to maintain its smooth finish.

Step 4: Let it dry

After the first coat, let the metal dry for an hour before applying the second coat. Repeat this until the surface is completely covered.

Which One is Better? Spray Paint vs Brush Paint Furniture

There are different methods of applying color to your furniture. However, the use of it depends on what you are repairing. Remember that an approach may not work on a specific object or area if you don’t apply it correctly.

Using sprays may be more efficient, but the color might not stick for too long. On the other hand, using brushes requires more time and labor, but the color is more adhesive.

There are more differences between the two since both have their specialties.

If I were to choose between spray paint vs brush paint furniture, I would choose both. It is because the two can complement each other in achieving a great finish.

For furniture that is small with areas that are difficult to reach, you should use sprays. While for the rest of the furniture with wide surfaces, then brushing would be of great help to you.

Read Next: Learn how to maintain outdoor wood furniture.