Whether you are bored of your space or inspired by television programs to tackle a daring interior project, you will want to avoid mistakes when your upgrading your home. If you’re planning to use spray paint for a project, check out our guide to common mistakes and how to avoid them.

What are some common spray paint mistakes?

There are several things to be aware of when you spray paint. The below are probably the most common spray paint mishaps. 

Ventilation

Spray paints contain a mixture of different chemicals that can cause irritation to our respiratory systems. One of the biggest problems people face when spray painting is getting enough ventilation. In the UK’s unpredictable weather, going outside to spray paint isn’t always practical. Plus, some projects can’t be moved outside.

Lifting

Lifting is the term for when spray paint shrinks, wrinkles or shrivels off the object. It can also happen if you’re applying a new coat of spray paint to an object for a deeper colour, without taking the proper steps to avoid the dreaded lift. 

Peeling

After spending time spray painting your chosen pieces, the last thing you want to deal with is the spray paint peeling off. Unfortunately, this is a very common problem but with some simple prep you never need to worry about it again. 

How to avoid these mistakes

So, how exactly do you avoid these spray paint mishaps? The key to spray painting, like most home renovation tasks is preparation. 

Ventilation

If you can, try to complete your spray painting projects outside. This should be fairly easy for moveable objects such as home accessories and non-fitted furniture. If you’re spray painting something secured in place, ensure you open all windows and doors in the room and adjacent rooms for air flow. 

Lifting

Make sure you properly cure your object or surface before you apply spray paint to it, this will help you avoid lifting. You should also leave your paint to dry for the recommended amount of time, factoring in the dampness or humidity of the space it is drying in. Also, higher quality paints tend to lift less than cheap ones. 

Peeling

To avoid the hassle of painting, peeling and then repainting over again, make sure you sufficiently prep your objects before you spray paint. Sandpapering and using high-quality primer should be sufficient in preventing peeling.