Can You Paint Over Spray Paint? (Easy Guide For All Types)

In short, yes! Typically any paint can brush over spray paint (and still look aesthetically pleasing afterward).  

The benefits of painting over spray paint outweigh the negatives. Your project will go from haphazard or unsightly to polished and professional with the appropriate materials and preparation. 

Paint generally adheres to spray paint well, but a few materials might give you trouble. Below are in-depth explorations of which paints cooperate with spray paint - and which ones you may want to skip. 

Yes, polyurethane goes over spray paint well if you apply it after curing. Most spray paints need about 24 - 72 hours to dry. After that point, you should be able to layer polyurethane without issue. 

Remember to wear long sleeves and a mask when putting polyurethane over paint, as it can be a dangerous chemical if it makes contact with skin. 

Acrylic paint glides over spray paint well under the right conditions but may not work as efficiently as oil-based spray paints. If you want to use acrylic paint, you need a water-based spray paint formula.  

You may also need to apply more than one coat of acrylic paint, as it is not as thick as spray paint and will not cover everything the first time around. 

Epoxy is a great way to liven up your spray paint project! The result is glossy, polished, and smooth-looking. Another bonus of using epoxy is that it seals your work and protects it from humidity, cracks, and everyday damage. 

Note that you should use epoxy resin for the best results. Powder epoxy may not work as well against spray paint. 

Latex is another type of water-based paint that you can use over spray paint. Latex paint will only work with water-based spray paints - but latex paint cooperates well with oil-based and water-based primers if you first sand and prime your item.  

One of the benefits of using latex paint is its capability to withstand any environment. Latex paint can endure harsh cold or hot temperatures, whether painting something for your interior or exterior. It is also less likely to fade, weather, chip, or crack over time.  

Chalk paint suits spray-painted surfaces well with proper priming and sanding. Before applying chalk paint, remove any rough edges or bumps from the surface to ensure a smooth application.  

If you have a glossy finish spray paint base, use a primer before applying the chalk paint for the desired matte effect. 

You can apply powder coats to spray paint, but it can be tricky. Before you administer a powder coat, ensure your base spray paint meets the following criteria:   

If your project has the above qualities, you can use powder. Otherwise, you may want to consider other options. 

Stains are perfectly safe to use over spray paint, but only if you want a particular result. Staining a spray-painted surface creates a rustic, lived-in look - ideal for modern farmhouse homes or updating old furniture. 

If you want your dresser from childhood to look shiny and new, staining may not be the best option. 

If your project turned out too matte for your taste, a clear-coat application is the easiest way to create a shiny, glossy finish.  

Clear coats show up best on matte spray paints or natural finishes. Bases painted with semi-gloss or glossy paints do not usually need clear coats. 

You can only use water-based paint over a spray-painted base on a primed and sanded surface. Otherwise, water-based paints will not adhere to the spray paint and drip off.  

Oil paint works best with matte spray paint bases. Glossy finishes will not adhere to oil paints. You may need to sand the surface first if you encounter problems during the application, but most oil paint formulas cooperate with spray paint well. 

Applying your preferred paint is not as challenging as it sounds with the proper materials and preparation steps. Below is a step-by-step guide on painting your project for the best result possible. 

Materials Needed 

When painting over spray paint, there are a couple of factors to consider for personal and overall safety. Since most paints are water-based, you do not need to worry about toxic fumes. However, working in a well-ventilated area is essential, even with safe substances such as acrylic. 

Another factor to consider is when you are applying the paint. Ensure you apply thin coats to the spray-painted surface. Thinner coats will dry faster, and you can administer new layers quicker.  

If you want your paint to last, try using a clear coat after applying your preferred paint over the base. Some DIY-ers have issues getting formulas to stick to spray paint - if you have this problem, sand the surface and prime it before applying the new layer. 

So, to review, can you paint over spray paint? Yes! Typically, water-based acrylic paint is best. Still, any formulation will adhere over the spray paint as long as you sand and prime your item first. Whether you want to cover mistakes or revamp old furniture, painting over spray paint is fast and easy.