5 Best Spray Paints for Metal Legs

When you work with metal, Flowyline understands that spray paint is the go-to tool for countless projects. It is essential for adding a new look to metalwork, wheel wells, whether for decoration or protection against rust. But there's a big problem that spray paints are not created the same. To get the best results, especially if you want the paint to last and stick properly, it's important to choose the best spray paint for metal surfaces. Keep following this article to make the right choice, you'll achieve not just good-looking results but also one that stands ages.

Top Spray Paints for Metal

BEST OVERALL BEST FOR HOME USER FOR OUTSIDE
Rust-Oleum 249124 Krylon K05505007 Krylon K02727007
COVER 12 sq. ft. per can 25 sq. ft. per can 25 sq. ft. per can
WEIGHT  12 ounces 12 ounces 12 ounces
PROS The spray paint offers excellent color retention and produces a beautiful glossy finish. A unique combination of black color and gloss finish UV-resistant, fade-resistant, weather-resistant, and rust-resistant formula
CONS It may require multiple coats The paint has a strong odor before it dries The smell of the paint is strong
PRICE $5.98 $7.79 $6.98

KrylonCOLORmaxx

This wrecking ball spray paint is perfect for metal table legs and wrought iron. It comes in a black finish that looks great on metal and works for both indoor and outdoor projects. It's also handy for other crafting tasks indoor and outdoor. Just keep in mind, you might need a few coats for even coverage.

Some people may not like its smell. Additionally, temperatures between 55°F and 75°F and humidity levels below 60% are ideal for its use. Most Krylon spray paints are dry to the touch in about 20 to 25 minutes and are completely dry in about one hour.

Rust-Oleum Metallic

This spray paint comes in many colors, with red, gray, and copper being the top choices. It’s weather resistant and can work on metal and other surfaces. Rust-Oleum Metallic spray paint is a bit pricey but helps keep surfaces dry quickly, efficiently, and prevents rust.

It can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications with a versatile coating, good adhesion to a variety of substrates, and flexibility in harsh weather. Apply two or more light coatings spaced a few minutes apart and spray in a steady back-and-forth motion for best effects.

Montana Cans BLACK

This paint is great for graffiti but also works well on metal surfaces like metal legs, bolts, and latches. It gives a matte black finish and comes in small sizes, and thus perfect for small projects.

Montana Cans BLACK is highly regarded for its high color quality and coverage, giving an effect comparable to high-end products. Drying time is also quite fast, within 3-5 minutes depending on the surface, temperature, humidity, and thickness of the coat. On the other hand, it also has some shortcomings related to the quality of the outer shell and nozzle.

Krylon Fusion Rose Gold

Specific designs like drawer pull look great when they are painted in rose gold color. This spray can be best for the surfaces where your thick rose gold color is the only option. Not only rose gold, but you can also choose different colors. It comes in both textured and hammered finishes.

Krylon Fusion Rose Gold is superior in that it can bond to difficult surfaces such as plastics and ready-to-assemble furniture without sanding or priming. The large nozzle allows for a more even and beautiful spray. It also performs best in the same temperature and humidity conditions as KrylonCOLORmaxx.

Krylon Shimmer Metallic

Krylon Shimmer Metallic is not only a great choice for giving non-metal surfaces but also for metal. You can use it indoors or outdoors. This spray provides a selection of colors for you to choose and ensures a wide array of metallic shades to complement your project.

This spray paint adds a touch of sparkle to your furniture with durability and beauty that lasts. It has a dry-to-touch time of just 10 minutes but a dry-to-handle time of up to 24 hours.

So, what is the best spray paint for metal? The answer depends on what you need, then consider factors such as metal surface, desired finish and whether it is suitable for outdoor use. Please note that you need to follow the instructions from the supplier to achieve the best results.

Why Should You Use Spray Paint for Your DIY Projects?

Spray paint allows you to cover large areas quickly, making it perfect for large and complex projects. Spray paint dries fast, enabling you to apply multiple coats in a short time with a smooth, even finish and without streaks or brush marks.
You can find it in hardware stores at an affordable price. Plus, it’s easy to touch up; no need to scrape off old paint, making it ideal for quick projects and convenient for beginners like painting metal table legs.

Spray paint is excellent for protecting metal furniture. Selecting the correct spray paint is essential for achieving excellent results when you take part in DIY metal. There are various options available for adding a touch of color or a durable finish. But not all spray paints work well with metal. To get the best outcome, you need a paint that’s made for metal surfaces. This will help it stick better and guard against issues like chipping, flaking, and rust.

Considerations When Choosing the Best Spray Paint for Metal

Before quickly heading to the store or immediately clicking "add to cart," pause for a moment to think about the specific needs of your project. Choosing the best spray paint colors for your next project is based on a range of factors. Before selecting the suitable product for your project, it is essential to take into account the below “golden keys”. 

Durability

If your project will face severe weather or high temperatures, choose a spray paint that can resist these changes. Search for formulas that are resistant to weather or heat to guarantee that your project will last long.

Color Selection

Your project's final result can be greatly affected by the color you select. It is important to consider the look you want and pick spray paint colors that match your vision. When you choose a paint color, let's think about your room's style and how the color will fit in. For a modern look, try bold or neutral shades. For a cozy feel, go with earthy tones or soft pastels. Don’t forget to consider how the color will match your overall home decor and how the table will be used. Test a few options in different lighting before deciding to achieve the best result.

best spray paint colors

There are many different spray paint color palettes to suit your preferences
Credit: Flowyline Design
Buy now: 311 Lithe Table Base

Application and Drying Time

Efficiency is important, particularly when working on projects with strict deadlines. Search for spray paints containing rapid-drying formulas for speedy and effortless application, ultimately saving you time and energy.

Primer and All-in-One Options

You might have to use a primer before applying the spray paint, depending on the state of your metal surface and the finish you want. Nevertheless, there are spray paints available that offer both primer and paint in one single product for increased convenience.

With a comprehensive grasp of the important factors, let's delve into the best spray-paint choices currently on the market.

What Is the Best Spray Paint Type for Metal?

Weather Resistant Spray Paint

This spray paint is tough enough to handle outdoor conditions, keeping your metal projects protected and vibrant all year. The big plus here is durability, but you might need to apply a few coats, and it can be pricier than regular options.

High Gloss Spray Paint

With a shiny finish and lots of color choices, this spray paint adds a unique look to your metal table legs ideas. However, high gloss spray paint can also show imperfections, and you might need to do some extra prep work.

Matte Spray Paint

Matte spray paint gives a smooth, flat finish with no shine, perfect for a more subtle, modern look. It’s good at hiding imperfections, but it can show fingerprints because of the slight gloss finish and might need a clear coat to stay looking fresh.

Fast-Dry Formula

If you want to save time, this fast-drying spray paint helps you get the job done quickly without sacrificing quality. The best part is the time it saves, but it can be tricky to touch up, and you’ll need to be careful with your application to avoid uneven coverage.

2-in-1 Primer and Paint

This all-in-one spray paint makes life easier by combining primer and paint, giving you a smooth finish with less effort. It’s super convenient, though it might not perform as well as using separate products, and color choices can be limited.

what is the best spray paint for metal

Choosing the right paint type is one of the most important steps in creating stunning metal table legs
Credit: ©IL21 on Canva.com

Essential Tips You Need to Know Before Painting Metal Surfaces

First of all, you will need to determine the size of the spray paint location. This will enable you to buy the correct number of cans needed for the painting job. You may need one spray can for every 8 to 10 square feet. This way, you can estimate how many cans are required to apply the paint.

Plan your step by step spray painting outdoors and you will find moderate climatic conditions are necessary. The climate is considered appropriate when the humidity is lower than eighty percent and the temperature is higher than fifty degrees Fahrenheit. It is best to select days with no wind outside.

painting metal surfaces


Some useful tips for spray painting
Credit: Flowyline Design
Buy now: 409 Cleo Table Legs; 333 Lithe Table Base

Preparation Process

In this task, you prepare the best spray paint which suits your project. Furthermore, you need to wear a mask or a respirator that will protect you from harmful chemicals present in the paint. Sometimes, it is essential to use a primer when the metal surface is rusty. The suitable primer will improve how well the paint sticks, protects the surface, and gives you better color. Before applying the primer, it is necessary for you to:

  1. Take a brush and clean the surface to ensure any loose paint particles are shed off.
  2. Once you have done this, clean the surface with a wet cloth to remove any dust particles.
  3. Do this process until there are no signs of dust.
  4. Let it dry before applying the primer.

Should read: 5 Metal Table Legs Ideas for Your Accent Tables

With the right spray paint in your hands, the possibilities for transforming and protecting metal surfaces are endless. By taking into account elements like longevity, choice of colors, how it will be used, and whether it requires a primer, you can confidently choose the ideal spray paint for your project. Therefore, whether you are starting a small do-it-yourself project or tackling a larger professional task, be sure to select the best spray paint for metal table. Do not forget to save and share this blog to your family and friends if this blog is helpful. Let your creativity flow and watch as your vision comes to life with each stroke of the can.

Decor trend