Can I Apply Spray Paint with a Brush? (With Pros & Cons)

DIYers often wonder if they can use a paintbrush to apply spray paint that comes in aerosol bottles or cans.

Why? There are many reasons.

Maybe your spray can nozzle is not spraying the paint correctly, the paint in your old aerosol can has dried partially from the inside, or you are just trying to avoid oversprays and the mess they can create.

Using spray paint with a paintbrush is an excellent option for those who need to have better control over the outcome without worrying about oversprays. Make sure you use a brush with soft natural bristles and medium thickness. This will help achieve finer results even in tricky areas.

But before you proceed, there are a few things to consider when using this technique. In this today’s blog, I will show you exactly how you should do it along with its pros and cons. So, let’s dive straight into the basic steps you need to follow…

Decanting Spray Paint to Use with Brush

To apply the spray paint with a brush, you must first pour all the content inside the aerosol can out so that it can be used easily.

There are several ways to decan or transfer the spray paint to another can. The method you use will depend on:

• Quantity of paint you require
• Condition of the paint in the spray can
• The working condition of the can’s nozzle

Firstly, if you need to drain out the wet usable paint in small quantities (for a small craft or decorative project), you can open the can’s cap and spritz as much paint as required for the project inside of it.

Secondly, if the paint has partially dried inside or the nozzle is not working, you can use a small glass jar with a lid to decant the paint.

Cut the aerosol can from the middle (like shown in the video here) and pour the required amount of paint inside the jar, making sure not to overfill it. Doing so will make it difficult to tighten the lid back on the jar.

Third, if the nozzle of your spray paint can is in working condition and you need to pour enough paint into the bottle or container, you can use a straw method.

1. Cut the drinking straw in half with a scissor.
2. Using a hot glue gun, stick one end of the straw with the nozzle
3. Shake the spray paint can and put the other open end of the straw inside the bottle
4. Spray to empty the paint inside the bottle.

Here’s a quick video for this decanting method if you want to refer.

TIP: Try using a syringe (instead of a straw) if you don’t find the straw working. It will also give you better control over the paint flow for decanting purposes.

Also, consider covering the work area with cardboard or a drop cloth to save it from spills if it happens accidentally.

Using the Spray Paint with Your Paintbrush

Once the spray paint is poured out and is ready in the cup or bottle, take a 2-inch or 3-inch brush. Use a smaller brush, like 1 inch or so if you are painting an object with intricate details. This will help you get better control over your paint project.

• Dip the paintbrush into the paint and wipe off the excess paint from the brush.
• Start painting the surface of the object from the middle, spreading the paint towards the outer area with even strokes.
• Use even strokes while painting and avoid going over the same area multiple times, as it will cause the paint to build up and will also make the bristles splay out.

Remember working with spray paints can turn out to be extremely hazardous because of the VOCs it contains. So it’s good to work only in a well-ventilated area while wearing a face mask.

Also, when you are using spray paint with a brush, it is best to work in small sections to ensure that the paint does not dry before you finish painting the entire object.

Once you are done with one section, move on to the next and continue painting until the entire object is painted. Then let the paint dry thoroughly for a few hours depending on the type of paint and the thickness of coating you have applied on the surface.

Using Spray Paint with A Brush – Pros and Cons

There are several compelling reasons why you should consider using a brush or even a sponge to apply spray paints. Some of them are:

• It’s easier to control the paintbrush than simply spraying from the can.
• Spray paints come pre-thinned, so you might not need any water or any other thinning medium to thin them before brushing.  
• Brushing evenly with the spray paint ensures exceptional adhesion on the substrate.
• Brushes allow for more intricate detail work that would otherwise be impossible with spray cans alone.
• Using a small brush helps you in applying the paint even on the trickiest areas and if used with a combination of the sprayer it helps achieve finer results.

Despite the manifold advantages of using your oil-based and latex-based spray paints with a brush, there are some drawbacks associated with this practice. You should consider these potential issues before you begin.

• You will need to buy extra paintbrushes.
• Not all types of spray paints can be used with brushes and sponges.
• Brushing will require certain skills and if not done correctly can leave brush marks and messy thick layers of paint that take much time to dry.
• After you finish your project, removing any lingering spray paint from surfaces and cleaning the brushes (unless you used disposable brushes) is also essential which will take some extra time and effort.

The Bottom Line

While using a brush with spray paint can offer some flexibility for specific tasks, it’s generally not the best choice for large, smooth surfaces where an even finish is desired. For most projects, sticking with a spray nozzle will yield more professional-looking results and save time.

However, if you’re willing to experiment or need to work on fine details, applying spray paint with a brush can be a creative solution that brings a unique, custom touch to your work.

This alternative method can be useful in achieving a unique texture, handling small touch-ups, or working on intricate areas that may be challenging to cover with spray.