What are the best spray paints for graffiti?
Graffiti is an art of its own, and as such it requires different considerations when choosing the right spray paints for the job.
So if you’re wondering how to choose the absolute best spray paint for a DIY graffiti job or wall mural, you’re in the right place.
In this ProPaintCorner.com guide, you will learn:
- What to look for in spray paint for graffiti
- The best 4 spray paints for graffiti
- And much more!
Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose and use the best spray paint for graffiti.
Image | Product | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick | Our Top Pick | Montana BLACK Popular Colors Set of 12 Graffiti Street Art Mural Spray Paint
|
| View on Amazon |
Best Budget | Best Budget | Krylon COLORmaxx Spray Paint
|
| View on Amazon |
Best High End | Best High End | MTN Hardcore 2 Popular Colors Set of 12 Graffiti Street Art Mural Spray Paint
|
| View on Amazon |
| Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Metallic Spray Paint
|
| View on Amazon |
Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
Updated On May 19, 2023
Our top pick spray paint for graffiti is the Montana BLACK color set.
This set is full of amazing, high-coverage colors for any surface or situation. Used by muralists and street artists alike, this series of spray paints is a go-to for graffiti experts.
You can see these Montana spray paints in action in the Youtube video below to see just how great they are at covering existing work.
They go on super smooth and the colors come out vibrant and true.
Top 4 Best Spray Paints for Graffiti
In a hurry? Check out our Top 5 picks below! Keep reading to learn more about these spray paints for graffiti!
- Montana BLACK Popular Colors Set of 12 Graffiti Street Art Mural Spray Paint
- Krylon COLORmaxx Spray Paint
- MTN Hardcore 2 Popular Colors Set of 12 Graffiti Street Art Mural Spray Paint
- Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Metallic Spray Paint
It's important to consider what you're aiming to accomplish with the spray paint you choose. So if you want to learn what to look for, read on...
What To Look For In The Best Spray Paint For Graffiti and Street Art?
As we mentioned before, graffiti requires different spray paints than your typical DIY job. Graffiti is an art form with tons of variables that determine the kind of paints you’ll need.
Most of the time, however, you want to look for high-coverage paints in a variety of colors that go on smoothly.
You also want to find the best high pressure spray cans possible, since low pressure spray paint cans won't provide as much precision.
In the past, graffiti artists simply had to work with what they could find. Which usually meant they could only use whatever their local hardware store had on-hand.
Now, there are brands and companies that cater specifically to graffiti artists and muralists so they can get the most out of the paints and spray cans they choose.
No matter what spray paint brands you choose to go with, however, you need to consider a few key things before you get started.
Think about what kind of finish you're looking for. Do you want a matte finish, or do you want more vibrant colors? Also consider how you'll be applying the paint, are you going to use stencils or are you going for more natural spray paint art? All of these things will determine what spray paint brands you end up using.
What Are the Different Types of Spray Paint for Graffiti?
Since graffiti is a broad art form, there are plenty of different types of spray paints to choose from. Choosing the right brand really depends on the surfaces you’ll be spray painting, as well as the finish you’re looking for.
For example, if you know you’re going to be painting on a clean wall (probably sheetrock) you don’t need to worry too much about paint adherence, and a glossier paint will probably do the trick. You likely won’t need to prime the wall too much either.
But, if you intend to work outdoors on a concrete or brick surface, you’ll want something a little more robust and heavy so it sticks to the surface better. There are plenty of factors that go into choosing the right spray paints and finding the best match for you.
Ultimately, depending on the job at hand, you want to look for a spray paint that has some staying power as well as a true-to-color application. Since graffiti is meant to really pop, choosing the right brand with a good color selection is key.
Our Reviews Of The Best 4 Spray Paints For Graffiti and Street Art
Pick #1: Montana Black Popular Colors Set (Our Top Pick)
Montana has cornered the market on spray paint for graffiti for tons of reasons.
But their Montana Black collections take the cake.
This set is full of the most popular colors for muralists and graffiti artists, but the cans themselves are high-pressure and easy to use.
Montana cans and Montana colors are also renowned as high-quality in the graffiti paint communities since they're made specifically for graffiti.
If you’re looking to get started as a graffiti artist, this is the best starter pack on the market.
Pros
- Easy & accurate application
- True to color
- Thick coating for maximum coverage
Cons
- Pricey
- Can get clogged easily
Pick #2: Krylon COLORMaxx Spray Paint (Best Budget)
Krylon has been a leader in the spray paint market for decades, and for good reason.
Their paints can be used pretty much anywhere and everywhere on any project you can throw at them.
These spray paints in particular are amazing for application and come in a variety of finishes to create your desired look easily.
Not to mention they’re usually less than $10 per can on Amazon!
Pros
- Easy application on any surface
- Rare colors available
- Low cost
Cons
- Lower coverage in some colors
- Not always true to color on packaging
Pick #3: MTN Hardcore Popular Color Set (Best High End)
Another great set from Montana in their MTN Hardcore series, these paints live up to their name.
This series comes in a bunch of different color bundles and is meant for the hardcore graffiti artists out there.
Aside from the typical colors, these also come in Montana Gold, Montana Black, and Montana Silver to really round out your color selection.
Montana markets this set as their most durable paints, meant to be “winter proof” and to maintain a glossy finish even in the toughest conditions.
These spray paints are great for outdoor artists and muralists. However, note that you'll want to stock up on some paint thinner or paint remover to clean the caps before each use since they tend to clog.
That's just because Montana cans are meant for graffiti artists so the paint runs on the thicker side.
Pros
- Super durable
- Quick drying
- Great default cap
Cons
- Tendency to clog after first use
- Pricey
Rust-Oleum is another classic spray paint brand in the industry, known for their rust-preventing qualities.
While they’re usually intended for indoor and outdoor DIY projects, graffiti artists are fond of their high-coverage spray paints.
Their metallic series is one of the best on the market because it contains actual metallic flakes and offers a high-gloss finish.
Plus, these spray paints are oil-based and designed to prevent chipping, flaking, and deterioration over time.
Pros
- Super durable
- Weather-resistant coating
- Great color match
Cons
- Produces a lot of fumes (not low-VOC)
- Thin application (tendency to run)
Our Top Pick: Montana Black Popular Colors Set
Montana BLACK Popular Colors Set of 12 Graffiti Street Art Mural Spray Paint is our top pick.
We've given you some cheaper options on this list, but if you really want to get started doing amazing graffiti, these are your best bet.
Their spray caps are designed for street art, unlike some of the other brands listed.
So if you want to get a variety of colors to make your mural pop, these are the spray paints we recommend.
Plus, it’s an excellent value for the money! Check the low price now...
Final Thoughts On The Best Spray Paints For Graffiti
Choosing the right spray paint for your next graffiti project comes down to a few variables. The first thing to consider is how experienced you are with spray paint application, especially when it comes to more artistic uses.
If you’re just starting out and want to get your feet wet, we recommend going with a Krylon or Rust-Oleum paint since they’re lower cost and will help you learn without breaking the bank.
However, if you have some experience and you know that you want to dive headfirst into the world of murals and street art, choosing a Montana variety pack is your best bet. That way you can get started with a variety of colors and get a higher-end finish on your project.
No matter what you choose, though, take proper precautions when working with spray paint to prevent fume inhalation like wearing a 3M painters mask and gloves as well as painting in a well-ventilated or outdoor area.