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Frequently Asked Questions

Krylon® experts offer answers to our users’ most Frequently Asked Questions. View questions by FAQ categories listed below.

Application

How can I spray paint hard-to-reach areas?

Spray paint hard-to-reach areas with Krylon® EZ Touch 360° Dial™ Spray Tip, an exclusive feature of Krylon® ColorMaster spray paint.

Krylon® recognizes all spray paint projects are unique, and therefore a flexible approach to product application may be required. In response to your need for adaptable convenience, Krylon has designed a nozzle that can handle projects small and large, short and wide.

The EZ Touch 360° Dial Spray Tip was designed to easily maneuver around your project. Adjust your EZ Touch 360° Dial Spray Tip to extend into hard-to-reach areas or to coat wide spray areas by turning the tip vertically, horizontally or diagonally.

Interested in obtaining more expert advice on how to spray paint the hardest to reach areas of your home and projects? Ask Krylon.

How do I apply spray paint evenly?

Follow these simple tips to help ensure that your Krylon® spray paint is evenly applied to your project every time:

  1. Shake your Krylon spray can vigorously for two minutes after the ball within the can begins to rattle
  2. Test your spray paint and painting technique on a piece of scrap material until you have achieved a satisfied result
  3. Hold your Krylon spray can 6 to 8 inches away from project surface
  4. Spray project using several thin coats of spray paint instead of one thick coat
  5. Begin and finish your spray pattern off the object, releasing the tip at the end of each pass
  6. Use an even side-to-side motion
  7. Overlap your spray pattern by about one-third with each pass

For smoothest results, we suggest always applying a coat of Krylon primer before applying spray paint. Below are a list of Krylon primers to help get you started:

Still have questions about even spray paint application? Ask Krylon.

How do I clean my spray paint valve?

Krylon® Spray Paint Valve Clearing Instructions

Clean your spray paint valve and help prevent your spray can’s tip from clogging by following these simple steps:

  1. Turn can upside down
  2. Hold spray nozzle for five (5) seconds or until can releases clear gas
How to Unclog Your Spray Paint Tip

If your Krylon spray tip can has become clogged, follow these steps to safely unclog your Krylon spray can:

  1. Wipe off the spray opening with clean, warm water
  2. Use lacquer thinner to wipe nozzle if water doesn’t unclog tip
  3. Test spray paint onto scrap material

To guarantee lasting quality and performance of your Krylon product, make sure your spray can’s valve has been completely cleared before storing.

Looking for more advice on how to clean your spray paint nozzle? Ask Krylon to get answers to your specific questions.

How long does Krylon® spray paint take to dry?

Krylon® Spray Paint Valve Clearing Instructions

Clean your spray paint valve and help prevent your spray can’s tip from clogging by following these simple steps:

  1. Turn can upside down
  2. Hold spray nozzle for five (5) seconds or until can releases clear gas
How to Unclog Your Spray Paint Tip

If your Krylon spray tip can has become clogged, follow these steps to safely unclog your Krylon spray can:

  1. Wipe off the spray opening with clean, warm water
  2. Use lacquer thinner to wipe nozzle if water doesn’t unclog tip
  3. Test spray paint onto scrap material

To guarantee lasting quality and performance of your Krylon product, make sure your spray can’s valve has been completely cleared before storing.

Looking for more advice on how to clean your spray paint nozzle? Ask Krylon to get answers to your specific questions.

How long should I wait between coats of spray paint?

Krylon® spray paint dry times vary by product, so be sure to check the can label for specific dry time instructions.

Keep in mind that if your project requires the application of multiple coats of spray paint, the required spray paint dry time starts only after your last coat has been applied.

Handling your project before the suggested dry time has elapsed puts a smooth, quality finish at risk.

Still have questions? Ask Krylon.

Preparation

How do I prevent my spray can tip from clogging?

Prevent your Krylon® spray paint tip from clogging by following these simple steps after each use:

  1. Turn spray can upside down
  2. Press spray nozzle for five (5) seconds or until clear gas is discharged

These precautionary measures can greatly impact the quality of your spray paint after your first use while prolonging the usage of a single can of Krylon paint.

For added protection and safety, make sure to wear eye protection before attempting to unclog the spray nozzle.

Still have questions on how to prevent your spray paint nozzle from clogging? Ask Krylon.

How do I prevent spray paint air bubbles?

Applying Krylon spray paint in ideal weather conditions can help prevent air bubbles from forming on the surface of your project. We suggest applying Krylon spray paint when the temperature is between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity is below 85%.

Recommended Spray Paint Techniques

In addition to this, we suggest applying multiple thin coats by following these application tips:

  1. Begin and finish your spray paint pattern off the object
  2. Release spray button at the end of each pass
  3. Use an even side-to-side motion
  4. Overlap your spray paint pattern by about one-third
Removing Spray Paint Air Bubbles from Project Surface

If spray paint air bubbles are released onto your project’s surface, follow these steps:

  1. Allow spray paint to dry
  2. Lightly sand the affected surface
  3. Reapply paint

For additional advice on preventing spray paint air bubbles, ask Krylon.

How do I prevent spray paint overspray?

Overspray can occur both indoors and outdoors. Depending on your project and location of your spray paint area, there are multiple materials that can be used to cover surrounding surfaces and protect them from overspray, including:

  • Newspapers
  • Painter’s Tape
  • Drop Cloths

For additional spray paint overspray protection, Krylon® suggests creating your own “spray booth.” Create a spray booth for your smaller spray painting projects by turning a large cardboard box on its side and placing your object inside before applying Krylon spray paint.

Still have questions on how to prevent spray paint overspray? Ask Krylon.

Product

Can I repair scratches on my appliances?

Easily repair scratches, chips and nicks on your homes metal appliances with Krylon® Appliance Epoxy. Your metal appliances will be dry in 10 minutes or less and look as good as new with this one-step, touch-up application from Krylon.

Looking for additional answers on how to repair scratches on your appliances? Ask Krylon® for additional advice.

Can I spray paint over grass?

Yes, Krylon® makes it easy to spray paint grass with Krylon® Marking Chalk, a temporary, fast-drying, water-based spray paint formula. Krylon Marking Chalk can be used to fulfill your professional and recreational needs by offering you the ease and convenience of temporarily spray painting grass to outline volleyball courts, soccer fields and even landscaping areas.

In addition to spray painting grass, Krylon Marking Chalk can be used to spray paint surfaces such as:

  • Pavement
  • Concrete
  • Gravel
  • Soil

Still have questions on how to spray paint grass or other outdoor surfaces? Ask Krylon.

Can I spray paint outdoor furniture?

Yes, you can spray paint outdoor furniture using Krylon®. In fact, Krylon® Rust Protector™ spray paint is specifically formulated to add a long-lasting durability to outdoor furniture. In addition to protecting these surfaces against natural elements, Rust Protector is available in an assortment of colors and finishes, allowing you to coordinate your outdoor furniture with your personal style.

For outdoor wooden furniture, consider applying Krylon® Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, which offers durability, UV-fade protection, and water repellency. As the first and only aerosol exterior wood stain on the market, this unique formulation provides your wood surfaces premier protection that goes on smooth and holds up under the toughest conditions.

Still have questions on how to spray paint outdoor furniture? Ask Krylon.

Can I spray paint over rust?

Yes, you can spray paint over rust. Before you paint, take the time to prepare your surface properly. Surface preparation is extremely important and is the best predictor of how long your new paint finish will last.

Remove Loose Rust and Paint

Remove loose rust with a wire brush, sandpaper or chemical rust remover. The goal is to make your surface as smooth as possible to ensure the new paint finish adheres well to the surface.

If your surface has any chipped or peeling paint, remove all loose paint. Lightly sand glossy surfaces to dull the finish. Do not sand old paint that may contain lead. For more information, contact the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-800-424-LEAD.

Clean Surface

Dirt, grease and oil can also affect paint adhesion, just like loose rust and peeling paint. Ordinary soap and water or household cleaner is effective at removing most surface grime. Remove grease and oils with a degreaser or denatured alcohol. Avoid using strong solvents on previously painted surfaces. Solvents may soften the old paint, which can then cause the new paint to wrinkle or pull away from the surface. Rinse and let your surface dry completely.

Your surface should now be clean, dull and dry.

Priming
When surface has extensive rust

If the surface still has extensive rust after all loose rust has been removed, start with Krylon® Rust Protector™ Rust Converting Primer or Krylon® Rust Tough® Rust Fix. This primer chemically changes rust into a waterproof, paintable surface. Spray directly over the remaining rust to protect against further corrosion. Apply multiple thin coats to prevent runs and drips. This primer sprays on clear and dries to a black primer finish. After 24 hours, topcoat with your choice of paint color. Surface can be sanded lightly before applying topcoat, if desired.

When surface has some rust

If the surface still has some rust after all loose rust has been removed, spray with Krylon® Rust Protector™ Rust Converting Primer. This primer offers increased corrosion protection for rusted surfaces and superior adhesion and hiding. Apply multiple thin coats to prevent runs and drips. The primer dries to the touch in 8 minutes and tack free in 15 minutes. Topcoat with your choice of paint color.

When surface rust has all been removed

If you were able to remove all traces of rust with a wire brush or sandpaper, you can either prime with Krylon® Rust Protector™ Rust Preventative Primer or Krylon® Rust Tough® Enamel Primer, or you can choose to skip the priming step because Krylon Rust Protector and Rust Tough Enamels are specially formulated to offer superior rust protection direct to metal — even without a primer.

Priming always helps to create a smooth, consistent surface that is ideal for painting. Primer also helps decrease the likelihood of colour change and increases adhesion. If you choose to prime, apply multiple thin coats to prevent runs and drips. Rust Protector Primer dries to the touch in 8 minutes, tack free in 15 minutes and a topcoat can be applied at any time. Rust Tough Primer dries to the touch in 20 minutes and a topcoat can be applied after 30 minutes.

Painting

After your surface is clean, dull, dry and primed appropriately, spray Krylon Rust Protector or Rust Tough Enamel on your well-prepared surface. Apply multiple thin coats to prevent runs and drips. Dries to the touch in 8 minutes and tack free in 15 minutes.

Still have questions on how to spray paint over rust? Ask Krylon.

What clear coat spray paint will protect my digital photos?

Krylon® Preserve It!® Digital Photo & Paper Protectant aerosol spray will protect your digital photos. That’s because Krylon Preserve It! Digital Photo & Paper Protectant more than doubles the life of your digital photos by protecting them against moisture and UV fading.

Drying in 10 minutes or less, Preserve It! Digital Photo & Paper Protectant provides a gloss or matte finish to your digital photos and more, including:

  • Address Labels
  • Greeting Cards
  • Scrapbook Materials
  • Artwork

For additional information on digital photo protection using Kyrlon Preserve It! Digital Photo & Paper Protectant, ask Krylon®.

What is primer and when should I use it?

A primer is designed to prepare bare metal, wood, canvas or other materials to create a smooth surface for which your Krylon® spray paint will be applied. A primer should be used on projects in order to seal the surface which will help:

  • Smoothen out uneven blemishes
  • Increase spray paint adhesion
  • Improve corrosion resistance
  • Ensure the true colour of the spray paint
Why Should I Use A Primer?

Generally, using a primer improves the amount of coverage you get from a can of Krylon spray paint and it provides additional benefits for the following surfaces:

  • Metal — Increases corrosion resistance on bare metal surfaces
  • Wood — Helps avoid an uneven paint finish by allowing for even penetration of bare wood surfaces

To help cut down on project time, Krylon offers Krylon® Dual Superbond™ Paint + Primer, which allows you to prime and paint in one step.

Krylon Primer

Find primers specific to your project specifications by searching a variety of Krylon products.

Still have questions about Krylon’s protective clear coatings? Ask Krylon for expert advice.

Surface

Can I spray paint aluminum?

Yes, spray paint any aluminum project with Krylon®, even if the paint on your aluminum surface is starting to chip back to the primer and oxidation. When this begins to happen, we suggest using Krylon® Rust Protector™ Rust Converting Primer for a durable finish that protects your aluminum surface against:

  • Rust
  • UV Color Fade
  • Weather Damage
Spray Painting Aluminum

Once primed, spray paint the aluminum surface by using any of the following Krylon products:

Still have questions or would like to learn more about spray painting aluminum? Ask Krylon.

Can I spray paint glass?

Yes, you can spray paint glass using Krylon® products. Although most Krylon spray paints such as Krylon® ColorMaster, Krylon® Glitter Spray and Krylon® Dual Superbond™ Paint + Primer adhere to glass surface, Krylon has specially formulated products to transform your clear glass projects into beautiful frosted or mirrored surfaces, such as:

Krylon Spray Painting Surface Preparation Tips

Before applying Krylon spray paint to your glass surface, prepare the surface by following these easy steps:

  1. Lightly sand with fine grain sandpaper (less slick surfaces allows for better adhesion)
  2. Wipe clean with a tack cloth
  3. Apply primer to further improve adhesion (glass will no longer be transparent if a primer is used)

Still have questions about spray painting glass? Ask Krylon.

Can I spray paint on fabric or clothing?

Yes, Krylon® can be used on fabric or clothing. In fact, Krylon spray paint is a unique opportunity for you to become your own personal fashion and interior designer by providing you with a fun, easy and affordable way to update your wardrobe and home fabrics.

In fact, Krylon can easily be applied to the following home fabrics and fashion accessories:

  • Jeans
  • Jackets
  • T-shirts
  • Hats
  • Tennis Shoes
  • Bracelets
  • Earrings
  • Belts
  • Lampshade
  • Table Linens
Krylon Spray Paint Fashion Projects

Whether you want to use Krylon spray paint over stencils to get a professionally designed look on your clothes and home fabrics or on shoe strings to turn your plain pumps into your outfit’s fashion focus, Krylon products provide endless possibilities.

Ready to make a statement? Find inspiration through Krylons fashion projects, complete with step-by-step instructions.

Still have questions on how to spray paint fabric or clothing? Ask Krylon.

Can I spray paint plastic?

Yes, you can spray paint plastic surfaces with the help of Krylon® Fusion for Plastic®. It is a no prep, one-step, super-bonding paint from Krylon® that is designed to bond to plastic surfaces. Whether your plastic, PVC or resin surface is going to be used indoors or outdoors, Krylon Fusion for Plastic provides a long-lasting finish that is available in more than 35 colors.

In addition to spray painting plastic, Krylon Fusion for Plastic adheres to multiple surfaces, including:

  • Wood
  • Metal
  • Wicker
  • Wrought Iron
  • Hard Vinyl
  • Glass
  • Plaster
  • Ceramic
  • Paper 
Learn more about Krylon Fusion for Plastic Spray Paint

Watch Krylon how-to videos for tips on how to spray paint plastic surfaces and more.

Still have questions or would like to learn more about spray painting plastic? Ask Krylon.

Can I spray paint vinyl?

Yes, you can spray paint vinyl surfaces with Krylon® Fusion for Plastic® spray paint, which exclusively bonds to hard, rigid, non-flexing surfaces such as vinyl, plastic, PVC and resin. Krylon Fusion for Plastic dries in 15 minutes or less and requires no sanding or priming, making it easy to refresh your vinyl project surfaces.

Interested in learning more about spray painting vinyl or still have questions? Ask Krylon.

Can I spray paint wood?

Yes, you can spray paint wood with Krylon® products. In fact, multiple Krylon spray paints are available to help you update wood surfaces. Choosing which Krylon product is right for your project is dependent on the finish, use and location of your wood surface.

Krylon® Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Spray Stain

Krylon Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is the first exterior wood staining protection available in a spray can. Dry to the touch only 15 minutes after application, Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain offers your exterior wood projects UV fade protection and water repellence.

Krylon® ColorMaster Spray Paint

If you’re looking to add colour to your outdoor wood projects, Krylon® ColorMaster™ spray paint is available in a variety of colour options.

Learn more from Krylon

Get instruction on how to spray paint wood surfaces by visiting our how-to video section.

Still have questions about spray painting wood? Ask Krylon.

How can I spray over already painted metal?

Spray paint metal surfaces that have already been painted by first preparing the project, following these steps:

  1. Remove loose rust with a wire brush, sandpaper or chemical rust remover
  2. Lightly sand the metal surface
  3. Remove dust with a tack cloth

Once rust, blemishes and dust have been removed from your metal surface, it is important to prime your project to ensure a smooth, durable finish, before applying Krylon® spray paint.

Prevent rust and corrosion by applying Krylon® Rust Protector™ Primer to your metal surface. If you’re interested in saving time and effort without sacrificing quality, use Krylon® Dual Superbond™ Paint + Primer, a formula combining the durability of a primer and professional finish of Krylon spray paint in one convenient aerosol can.

Both Rust Protector and Dual Paint + Primer are available in a variety of colors and finishes to fit your project needs.

Still have questions on how to spray paint metal? Ask Krylon.

Trouble Shooting

Are Krylon® spray paint cans recylable?

Yes, Krylon® spray paint cans and their plastic caps are designed to be recyclable where recycling facilities for these materials exist.

Once completely empty of contents, recycle Krylon spray paint cans to help reduce the volume of waste in landfills and conserve energy.

Steel Aerosol Can Recycling Instructions

When recycling your Krylon steel aerosol spray can, make sure to follow these three easy steps:

  • Use your Krylon product until the container is empty
  • Remove the plastic spray cap to be recycled separately
  • Recycle spray cans along with other containers according to your community guideline

Please note that recycling facilities for steel aerosol cans may not exist in your area.

Go Green with Krylon

Discover how Krylon strives towards environmental sustainability in our products, manufacturing plants and distribution plans.

Still have questions on recycling your spray paint cans? Ask Krylon for expert advice.

Can I remove sand, dirt or grass from wet or tacky spray painted surfaces?

Yes, you can remove particles such as sand, dirt or grass from your project’s surface that is still wet or tacky by lightly sanding or using paint thinner.

Severe Appearance of Damage

If your spray paint project’s surface has become heavily coated with dirt, sand or other particles, follow these steps to remove the particles from the area:

  1. Wait until your spray paint has dried completely
  2. Remove paint in the affected area by lightly sanding or using paint thinner
  3. Reapply spray paint
Moderate to Light Appearance of Particles on Spray Painted Surface

If your freshly spray painted surface has been affected minimally by dirt, sand or other particles, follow these steps to remove them from your project:

  1. Recoat the affected area with spray paint while still wet
  2. Recoat the affected project area again once the surface has dried completely

Need additional advice on how to remove unwanted particles from your freshly painted surface? Ask Krylon for expert advice.

Can I spray paint indoors?

Yes, Krylon® spray paint can be applied indoors. However, we suggest applying spray paint to your project surface outdoors whenever possible.

When applying Krylon spray paint indoors, we advise that you follow these safety tips to ensure your indoor spray paint area is properly ventilated:

  1. Open all windows and doors to ensure fresh air entry during application and drying
  2. Use a fan to circulate the aerosol emissions towards opened windows and doors
  3. Wear a painting mask for additional respiratory protection
Krylon Spray Painting Safety Tips

Before starting your next indoor project, learn more about Krylon’s safety tips.

Have questions about using spray paint indoors? Ask Krylon for expert advice.

Can I spray paint outdoors?

Yes, Krylon® spray paint can be applied outdoors. In fact, applying spray paint outdoors is our recommended method because it ensures a well-ventilated spray paint area.

Krylon Spray Painting Safety Tips

Before starting your next spray paint project, learn more about Krylon’s safety tips.

Looking for additional tips on spray painting outdoors? Ask Krylon for expert advice.

How do I remove preexisting paint before applying spray paint?

Remove preexisting paint before applying spray paint by lightly sanding the project surface. Once the preexisting paint colour is dulled and the surface is smooth, remove dust with a tack cloth and apply Krylon® spray paint. It is not necessary to completely remove preexisting paint as Krylon is formulated to cover previously painted surfaces.

Still have questions on recycling your spray paint cans? Ask Krylon for expert advice.

How do I remove spray paint overspray?

Learn how to remove spray paint overspray by reading the “After Use” section found on the Krylon spray can label instructions.

In most cases, paint or lacquer thinner will remove spray paint from the objects surrounding your spray area. In these cases, follow the solvent manufacturer’s safety instructions and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after use.

When to use spray paint?

Use Krylon® spray paint on your project when you are looking for a durable, smooth and professional-looking finish. The additional benefits of using Krylon products include, among others:

  • Quick dry time
  • Easy clean-up
  • Portable convenience
  • Less waste
  • Recyclable
  • Coat hard-to-reach surfaces

Learn more about Krylon products and determine which one is best for your next project by viewing Krylon Products.

Still have questions regarding the best Krylon product for you? Ask Krylon for expert advice.