Need Spray Paint But Just Can't Find The Right Color? Try This Simple Trick

Sometimes, you have a vision that demands the perfect paint color. When your imagination runs wild or you're trying to replicate a specific shade, finding the perfect hue in a spray might be impossible. By making your own spray paint, you can save a few dollars and create a custom color to match your needs. That's where this DIY trick comes in handy. In just a few minutes, you can easily turn acrylic paint into spray paint with an airbrush medium, a spray bottle, and water. Whether you're using spray paint for your next furniture makeover or working on a smaller project, such as giving a Dollar Tree glass vase a luxe DIY, you'll be able to mix your own color with ease.

The key to turning acrylic paint into the perfect spray paint lies in understanding how to prepare your materials effectively. Acrylic paints are naturally thick, which makes them unsuitable for spraying. The consistency can clog the nozzle or cause unattractive splattering. Thankfully, this issue is easily resolved by using an airbrush medium to thin the paint, ensuring smooth and consistent application. When the perfect color is out of reach, simply grab some acrylic paint and let your creativity fill in the blanks.

Start by gathering your supplies: acrylic paint in your desired color, an empty spray bottle, and a thinner, such as Golden Airbrush Medium. Begin by adding the acrylic paint to the bottle, filling it only about a third of the way. If you're mixing paints for a custom color, it may be best to perfect the shade in a separate container before pouring it into the spray bottle. Keep in mind that thinning your paint for it to be airbrush-ready will make the pigment more translucent, which could slightly alter the shade or require additional coats for full coverage.

Next, give your bottle of airbrush medium a good shake, then add it to your paint, and thoroughly combine the two. Most thinners, including Golden Airbrush Medium, suggest a 50-50 ratio, but be sure to follow the instructions on your bottle. Finally, test your spray on scrap paper to ensure the consistency is just right. It should have the viscosity of skim milk. If the mixture feels too thick, add a little water to your paint before spraying to thin it out. However, be careful not to add too much. A blend of less than 30% water is recommended to allow the paint to still stick to your desired surface. Once everything is added, shake the bottle, and your custom spray paint will be ready to bring your creative vision to life!