Spray Paint VS Brush Paint Furniture

Are you looking to update the look of your furniture with a fresh coat of paint? If so, you’re likely considering whether spray painting or brush painting is the right approach. Spray paint vs brush paint furniture is a debate that has been going on for years.

Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand exactly what they are before making a decision. Check out this blog post on furniture painting tools and supplies to learn about the other things that we use for painting furniture

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both spray painting and brush painting furniture, as well as provide some tips on how to achieve the best results with each method.

If you choose the wrong technique, you could end up wasting time and money on something that doesn’t give you great results.

But with the information in this post, you won’t have to worry about wasting time or money on a technique that isn’t suited for your needs – instead, you can be sure that whatever method you choose will give you great results!

Spray painting offers several benefits, including quicker application, even coverage, and a smooth finish. However, there are also drawbacks, including poor control, potential overspray, and health and safety concerns.

On the other hand, brush painting offers greater control and precision, as well as less potential mess and waste.

However, it does come with some drawbacks, such as longer application time, potential brush marks, and runs and drips in the paint.

Which option is right for you? Let’s dive into more details about each method!

Spray Painting Furniture

Spray painting furniture with a paint sprayer is an efficient and cost-effective way to give your large projects a new look.

It allows you to apply even coats of paint quickly and easily, resulting in a smooth, professional finish.

However, there are some drawbacks that come along with using this method, such as poor control over the direction of the spray and potential overspray.

In this section, we’ll explore these pros and cons in more detail so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s the right approach for your project.

Pros of Spray Painting:

• Efficiency: Spraying paint allows for quick and even coverage of surfaces, which can save time and yield better results than hand painting.
• Smooth finish: Spraying paint can achieve a smooth finish, with no brush or roller marks.
• Versatility: Spraying paint can be used on a variety of furniture materials, including wood, metal, and plastic.

Cons of Spray Painting:

• Messy: Spraying can be messy, as paint can get on surfaces you don’t intend to paint, especially if you don’t use proper prep and masking techniques.
• Cost: Spraying paint requires special equipment, such as a paint sprayer or air compressor, which is more expensive than a paint brush.
• Learning curve: Spraying takes practice, so if you’re not experienced you may end up with an uneven or patchy finish.
• Health hazards: Spraying can release harmful fumes and particles, so it’s important to use protective equipment and work in a well-ventilated area.

Overall, spraying paint on furniture can be a good option if you want a smooth and even finish, are willing to invest in the necessary equipment, and take proper safety precautions.

If you’re looking for affordable options, here’s my list of the best cheap paint sprayers for more information.

No need to worry if you’ve never used a sprayer before. Here’s everything you need to know about how to use a paint sprayer.

However, it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget, don’t have the space for proper ventilation, or prefer a more hands-on approach to painting.

Check out my list of the best paint for spraying furniture here.

Best Paint Sprayers for Furniture

A budget friendly paint sprayer is a great investment for painting furniture.

As long as you practice with some water first, filter the paint before putting paint into the sprayer, and depending on the paint, thin it out a little, you will have great success!

Check out this post on the best paint sprayers for painting furniture to find out which one is best for you. I’ve also compiled my paint sprayer reviews here for more information.

Also, read this post to learn how to use the Wagner FLEXiO 3000 (my favorite!) to paint your furniture, and here’s how to thin paint for a Wagner FLEXiO sprayer.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I also may earn from other qualifying purchases with other companies or get free product to review and use. All opinions are my own.

Best Spray Paints for Furniture

If you don’t want to purchase a paint sprayer, you can use the aerosol spray paint cans that are preloaded with oil based paint.

For small projects, spray cans are much more budget friendly. But, for large projects, or multiple projects, buying a budget friendly paint sprayer can make a world of difference in the outcome and your wallet.

Check out this post about the best spray paint for wood furniture to learn about how the different brands of spray paint compare.

Also, here is a post that compares the best chalk spray paint for furniture. (I liked the chalk spray paint a lot better!)

Spray Painted Furniture Makeovers

Still unsure if you want to use a paint sprayer or spray paint on your furniture? Well, we have some great makeovers to help guide your decision.

Here are some spray painted furniture makeovers, so you can see what went into spray painting furniture, and if it’s right for you.

• Redoing End Tables
• How to Spray Paint a Dresser with Chalk Paint
• Grey Chalk Paint Dresser
• Painting Oak Furniture Black

Brush Painting Furniture

Brush painting furniture is an inexpensive and easy way to give any piece a new, fresh look.

It’s perfect for those who don’t want to invest in expensive equipment or take on the time-consuming process of learning how to use a paint sprayer.

Brush painting also allows you to have more control over getting into tight spots on your furniture and can create a beautiful finish if you use the right paint.

With just a few simple steps and some basic supplies, you can transform your furniture with a paint brush and some paint.

Here are some possible pros and cons of brush painting furniture:

Pros of Brush Painting:

• Affordability: Brush painting is relatively cheap, as it only requires basic materials such as paint, a brush, sandpaper, and primer.
• Control: Brush painting allows for greater control over the application of paint, especially for tight spaces.
• No specialized equipment: Brush painting does not require any specialized equipment other than brushes, which are readily available and inexpensive.
• No risk of overspray: Since brush painting is done by hand, there is no risk of overspray or paint getting on surrounding areas.

Cons of Brush Painting:

• Time-consuming: Brush painting can be slower and more time-consuming than other methods, especially for large surfaces.
• Brush marks may be visible: If the paint isn’t applied properly, or you use the wrong paint, or a cheap paint brush, brush marks may be visible on the finished piece.
• Difficult to get a smooth finish: Achieving a smooth, even finish with a paint brush or a roller can be difficult, especially for beginners.

Overall, brush painting can be a good option if you are on a budget, have a small project or want more control over the painting process.

It is also a good option if you need to paint in a tight space or indoors where spray painting may not be feasible.

However, brush painting can be time-consuming, and getting a smooth finish can be challenging. Learn more about how to paint furniture without brush marks here to achieve a smooth finish.

Best Paint Brushes for Painting Furniture

When it comes to painting furniture, having the right brush can make all the difference in achieving a smooth, professional-looking finish.

While there are many types of brushes available on the market, some of the best options for furniture painting include the Country Chic Paint oval brush, Staalmeester paint brushes, Zibra paint brushes, and Cling On paint brushes.

Each of these brushes has its own unique features and benefits, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preference and the specific details of your project.

Learn more about the best paint brushes for painting furniture here.

Brush Painted Furniture Makeovers

If you are still on the fence about whether brush painting furniture will work for you, here are some of our furniture makeovers where we only used a paint brush.

You can still create a flawless looking finish with brush painted furniture! But you have to use the right tools and paint.

Check out these makeovers for the best tips!

• DIY Cedar Chest Makeover
• Painting with General Finishes Milk Paint
• Behr Chalk Painted Dresser Makeover

Spray Paint VS Brush Paint Furniture

When it comes to painting furniture, there are many factors to consider when deciding between spray paint and brush painting.

Some of the most important considerations include the type of project, available equipment, and personal preference.

For example, if you are painting 1 small project, using a paint brush and self leveling paint might be your best option.

If you are working on a large project, or have multiple projects to do, it might be worth the cost of buying a paint sprayer for you.

If having a professional looking fine finish on your furniture is the most important to you, then spraying your furniture is the way to go.

You can also check out our comparison between paint sprayer vs roller to get more information.

Depending on your specific needs and preferences, one method may be more suitable than the other for achieving a professional-looking finish.

It is important to weigh all options before making a decision in order to ensure that you get the best results for your project.

More Painting Furniture Resources

• Best Rollers For Painting Furniture
• Spray Paint Tools
• Spray Painting Furniture
• Best Electric Paint Sprayer
• How to Paint Stripes on a Wall Without Bleeding

Follow us on YouTube to get more tips for painting furniture.

Or share your project with us on our Facebook Group and be part of our community. See you there!