What is spray paint?

Spray paint is a type of paint that is stored in a pressurized can or aerosol container. It is designed for easy and convenient application by spraying a fine mist of paint particles onto surfaces. Spray paint is commonly used for various projects, such as DIY home decor, automotive refinishing, art, crafts, and more.

The basic components of spray paint include pigments (for colour), binders or resins (to hold the pigments together and adhere to the surface), solvents (to create a liquid paint that can be sprayed), and propellants (to release the paint from the can when the valve is pressed).

The pressurized container allows the paint to be expelled in a controlled manner, giving users the ability to apply paint evenly and precisely. Spray painting provides a smooth and even finish, and it is favoured for its quick drying time, versatility, and ease of use.

Spray paint comes in various types, including acrylic, enamel, lacquer, and more, each with its unique properties and uses. Different finishes are also available, such as matte, gloss, metallic, and textured, allowing users to achieve various effects based on their specific project requirements.

Overall, spray paint is a popular choice for a wide range of applications due to its convenience, versatility, and ability to achieve professional-looking results with minimal effort.

How to use spray paint?

Using spray paint is relatively straightforward, but it's essential to follow certain steps to achieve the best results. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use spray paint effectively:

• Choose the Right Spray Paint: Select the appropriate spray paint for your project, considering the surface you'll be painting and the finish you desire. Different types of spray paint, such as acrylic, enamel, lacquer, or specialty paints, have specific applications and characteristics.

• Prepare the Surface: Ensure the surface you'll be painting is clean, dry, and free from dust, grease, or debris. Sand the surface lightly if needed to create a smooth base for the paint to adhere to.

• Shake the Can: Shake the spray paint can vigorously for at least one minute to mix the paint thoroughly. This ensures an even distribution of pigments and other components within the can.

• Test the Spray: Before applying the paint to your project, perform a test spray on a scrap material or piece of cardboard to get a feel for the spray pattern and to ensure the paint is flowing correctly.

• Apply Primer (Optional): For certain surfaces or projects, applying a primer can help improve paint adhesion and enhance the finish. Consider using a primer specifically designed for the type of surface you are painting.

• Begin Spray Painting: Hold the spray can about 8-10 inches (20-25 centimetres) away from the surface you want to paint. Use a smooth, sweeping motion to apply the paint, overlapping each pass slightly for even coverage. Keep the can in motion while spraying to avoid drips or uneven coating.

• Apply Thin Coats: It's better to apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat to prevent drips and runs. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next one.

• Allow Drying Time: Read the instructions on the spray paint can to know the recommended drying time between coats. Drying times can vary based on paint type and environmental conditions.

• Add More Coats (if necessary): Depending on the desired finish and coverage, you may need to apply multiple coats of paint until you achieve the desired result.

• Clean Up: After you finish spray painting, wipe the nozzle of the spray can with a clean cloth to prevent clogging. If there's paint overspray on nearby surfaces, clean it up immediately.

Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate protective gear, such as a face mask, goggles, and gloves, to ensure your safety while spray painting. With practice and attention to detail, you can achieve professional-looking results with spray paint for various projects.

What surfaces can I use spray paint on?

Spray paint can be used on a wide range of surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. Its versatility allows for various applications and creative projects. Here are some common surfaces that are suitable for spray painting:

• Metal: Spray paint adheres well to metal surfaces, making it ideal for reviving old metal furniture, car parts, metal sculptures, and other metal objects.

• Wood: Wood surfaces, such as furniture, cabinets, picture frames, and wooden crafts, can be easily transformed with spray paint.

• Plastic: Many spray paints are formulated to adhere to plastic surfaces, making it possible to update or customize plastic furniture, containers, toys, and more.

• Glass: Glass surfaces, such as vases, jars, and glassware, can be spray-painted to create unique decorative pieces.

• Fabric: Some spray paints are designed specifically for fabric, allowing you to personalize clothing, canvas, or other textile projects.

• Stone or Concrete: Spray paint can be used to add colour or designs to stone or concrete surfaces, such as planters, statues, or outdoor decorations.

• Ceramic or Pottery: Spray paint formulated for ceramic or pottery can be used to enhance or personalize ceramic and pottery pieces.

• Paper or Cardboard: Spray paint can be used on paper or cardboard surfaces for various craft projects, such as posters or cardboard sculptures.
• Canvas: Spray paint can be applied to canvas for creating artwork or mixed media projects.

• Wall Surfaces (with caution): While spray paint can be used on walls, caution is necessary, especially indoors. Use proper masking techniques and protect surrounding areas from overspray to avoid unintentional painting.

Always ensure the surface is clean, dry, and properly prepared before applying spray paint for the best adhesion and finish. Additionally, choose a spray paint that is specifically designed for the surface you are working on to ensure optimal results and durability.

What are the different types of spray paints available?

Cosmos has the largest range of spray paints across different brands and product ranges based on the use. Whether it be a canvas, fabric, metal, wood or even glass; spray paints provide similar functionality to regular paints but with easier application.

• Cosmos Paints - Best used on metal, canvas, fabric, walls, paper and wood. Can be used on other surfaces like plastic, ceramics and glass after a coat of primer. Available in 200 & 400ml high pressure cans in 6 finishes and has 90+ colours.

• EasyMax - Best used on fabric, walls (for graffiti), wood, cane, mdf, metal, stainless steel, glass, plaster, ceramics, stone, paper and others. Available in 400ml low pressure cans in a satin finish and has 20 colours.

• Chalk Effect - Best used on furniture, wood, cane, mdf, walls, metal, stone, ceramics, stainless steel, glass, fabric, paper and marble. Available in 400ml low pressure cans in an ultra-matte finish and has 25 colours.

• Tinted Wood Varnish - As its name suggests, best used on wood and wood lookalikes. Available in 400ml high pressure cans in a glossy finish and 4 colours.

• Primers - Known for great adhesion, primers can be used on all or any surfaces to prepare it for painting. Available in 400ml high pressure cans in 4 colours.

• Flame - Best used on walls for graffiti. Can also be used on metal, glass, canvas, fabric, wood and others. Available in 400ml low pressure cans in a matte finish and 120 colours.

• RAL line- Premium acrylic paints best used on wood, metal, stainless steel, plaster, ceramics, stone, marble and others. Easiest for finding the exact colour match. Available in 400ml high pressure cans 23 glossy colours and 2 matte colours.

• Paint remover- Fast acting paint remover to remove existing coat of paint or any paint residue in unwanted locations. Available in 400ml.

What is the difference between Cosmos, Chalk effect, Easy max and Flame Products?

The key difference between all the products is its functionality:

COSMOS PAINTS is an easy to use, quick drying spray paint that uses high pressure technology to cover larger areas in a lesser amount of time. It comes in 90+ colours and 7 different finishes; from a super glossy, Matte effects to Flash finishes and metallic hammer tone textures. Cosmos has a spray for all your projects; may it be an artistic endeavour or a simple touch up. It is cost effective, user friendly and works excellent on surfaces like metal, canvas, fabric, walls, wood, plastic, etc.

COSMOS LAC has a speciality range of effects such as Chalk Effect, Easymax, RAL line, Tinted Wood Varnish and Primers all made in Greece.
Chalk Effect provides an ultra-matte look which is perfect for a vintage finish on woodwork. Chalk Effect is ideal for wooden surfaces but also suitable for metal, stone, ceramics and marble. Give new life to your old furniture within just a few minutes. Available in 25 colours.

Easy Max on the other hand provides a satin finish and is compatible with all surfaces especially fabric. It combines extreme coverage with no dripping mechanics. It is an all-surface paint for all creative DIY or professional, indoor or outdoor, projects that demand a stylish satin look. Available in 20 colours.

RAL Line carries premium acrylic fast drying, high weather resistant, standardised colour shades used in various fields, e.g., industry, decoration, and DIY. Application on metal, wood, ceramics, stone, clay, glass, paper and plastics. Guarantees an exact colour match available in 23 glossy shades and 2 matte shades.

Wood Varnish provides a semi-transparent finish in 4 colours. Ideal for painting and protecting wooden surfaces and can be used on unpainted wood as well as to refresh old varnishes. Impressively easy to apply to furniture, tiles, ornamental objects, wooden doors, wooden frames, etc.
All the above have 4 times more pigments and in combination with the triple grinding process, offers 4m² coverage, with only one layer, without the need of a primer.

FLAME is trusted to be the best in the world for graffiti due to its low pressure cans for controlled, fine and fast spraying application. It is widely sought after by graffiti artists from around the world. It has the best possible opacity and coverage with a variety of 120+ colours. Made in Europe.


What equipment do I need to spray paint?

To spray paint effectively, you'll need some basic equipment to ensure a smooth and successful painting process. Here's a list of essential items you'll need:

• Spray Paint: Choose the appropriate spray paint for your project, considering the type of surface and finish you want to achieve. You can find various types, including acrylic, enamel, lacquer, and more.

• Spray Paint Can or Paint Sprayer: Depending on your preference and the scale of your project, you can use either spray paint cans or a paint sprayer. Spray paint cans are suitable for smaller projects and touch-ups, while paint sprayers are ideal for larger surfaces and more significant undertakings.

• Protective Gear: Safety should be a priority when spray painting. Wear protective gear such as a face mask or respirator, safety goggles, and gloves to shield yourself from fumes and paint particles.

• Drop Cloth or Newspaper: Cover the area around your painting project with a drop cloth or layers of newspaper to protect surfaces from overspray and accidental paint splatters.

• Painter's Tape or Masking Tape: Use painter's tape or masking tape to mask off areas you want to keep paint-free. This will help create clean lines and edges.

• Primer: Depending on the surface you're painting, a primer might be necessary to ensure better paint adhesion and a smoother finish.

• Sandpaper: Keep sandpaper handy to prep the surface before painting and to smooth out imperfections between coats.

• Cleaning Supplies: Have cleaning materials, such as soap and water or paint thinner, to clean surfaces and tools after you finish painting.

• Cardboard Box: If you're using spray paint cans, placing the object inside a cardboard box will help contain overspray and protect surrounding surfaces.

Do I need to be an artist to use spray paints?

No, you do not need to be an artist to use spray paints. Spray painting is a versatile and accessible medium that can be used by people of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists. While having some artistic experience or skill may be helpful, it is not a requirement to use spray paints effectively.

Spray painting allows for a wide range of applications, from simple DIY projects to more complex artistic endeavours. Many spray paint projects involve basic techniques such as even application, using stencils, or creating simple patterns. With practice and experimentation, you can achieve impressive results even if you don't consider yourself an artist.

Here are some key points to consider:

• Simplicity in Design: Start with straightforward designs and techniques. As you gain confidence, you can gradually explore more intricate patterns or artworks.

• Practice and Experiment: Spray painting is a learnable skill. Practice on scrap materials to get a feel for the medium and experiment with different techniques and styles.

• Utilize Stencils: Stencils are a great tool for creating clean and precise designs without the need for freehand skills.

• Patience and Persistence: Like any skill, mastering spray painting takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and keep practicing to improve.

• Watch Tutorials and Follow Instructions: There are numerous online tutorials and guides available that can help you learn various techniques and tips to achieve different effects.

• Have Fun: Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your projects. The process of creating with spray paint can be enjoyable, regardless of the outcome.

Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner with no formal art training, spray painting can be an enjoyable and rewarding medium for unleashing your creativity and transforming various objects into unique pieces of art or functional items.

What is spray paint made of?

Spray paint is made up of several key components that work together to create the paint's unique properties and application method. The basic ingredients in spray paint typically include:

• Pigments: Pigments provide the colour in spray paint. They are finely ground particles that give the paint its desired hue.

• Binders or Resins: Binders or resins are the components that hold the pigments together and help them adhere to the surface. Common binders used in spray paint include acrylic, enamel, lacquer, or urethane.

• Solvents: Solvents are liquid substances that dissolve the pigments and resins, creating a smooth and even consistency for spraying. Common solvents include acetone, toluene, xylene, and butyl acetate.

• Propellant: Propellant is a pressurized gas that pushes the liquid paint out of the can when the valve is opened. Common propellants include compressed air, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).

• Additives: Spray paint may contain various additives to enhance its performance and characteristics. These additives can include drying agents, anti-clogging agents, UV stabilizers, and flow agents.

The specific composition of spray paint can vary depending on the type of paint, its intended application, and the manufacturer's formulation. Different types of spray paint, such as acrylic, enamel, or lacquer, have distinct properties and uses based on their unique ingredients. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines when using spray paint to ensure proper application and safety.

What are the benefits of using spray paint?

Using spray paint offers several benefits, making it a popular choice for various projects and applications. Some of the key advantages of using spray paint include:

• Easy Application: Spray paint is simple to use and allows for quick and even application. The aerosol can dispenses paint in a fine mist, ensuring a smooth and professional-looking finish.

• Time-Saving: Spray painting is a time-efficient method compared to traditional brush painting. It covers larger areas quickly, reducing the time required for completing projects.

• Versatility: Spray paint is available in a wide range of colours, finishes, and formulations, including acrylic, enamel, lacquer, and more. This versatility allows users to achieve different effects and work on various surfaces.

• Smooth Finish: The fine mist produced by spray paint helps create a smooth and uniform finish, free from brush strokes or texture marks.

• Uniform Coating: Spray paint provides an even coating, ensuring consistent colour and coverage across the entire surface.

• Minimal Waste: The controlled application of spray paint minimizes paint wastage, as only the necessary amount is used without excess dripping or spilling.

• Quick Drying Time: Spray paint typically dries faster than traditional paint, allowing for quicker project completion.

• Precise Application: Spray paint allows for precise and controlled application, making it suitable for intricate designs, stencils, or masking techniques.

• Great for DIY Projects: Spray paint is a favourite choice for DIY home decor, furniture refinishing, and craft projects due to its ease of use and wide range of colour options.

• Professional-Looking Results: With minimal effort, spray paint can deliver professional-looking results, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

• Adhesion to Various Surfaces: Spray paint adheres well to various surfaces, including metal, wood, plastic, glass, and fabric, making it a versatile option for a variety of projects.

Overall, the benefits of using spray paint make it an attractive choice for those looking to achieve high-quality results quickly and effortlessly in their projects.

How do I prepare a surface for spray painting?

Properly preparing the surface before spray painting is crucial to achieving a smooth and long-lasting finish. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare a surface for spray painting:

• Clean the Surface: Start by thoroughly cleaning the surface you plan to paint. Remove any dirt, grease, dust, or debris using a mild detergent and water. For stubborn stains or grease, you may need to use a stronger cleaner or solvent.

• Sand the Surface: After cleaning, lightly sand the surface to create a smooth and even texture. Sanding helps the paint adhere better and provides a better surface for an even finish. Use fine-grit sandpaper (around 220-grit) and sand in a circular or back-and-forth motion.

• Wipe Down the Surface: Once you've finished sanding, wipe down the surface with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any sanding residue. Make sure the surface is completely dry before proceeding.

• Mask Off Areas: Use painter's tape or masking tape to cover areas you want to keep paint-free. This can include edges, hardware, or any parts you don't want to paint. The tape creates clean lines and prevents overspray on unintended areas.

• Prime the Surface (Optional): Depending on the type of surface and the spray paint you're using, you may want to apply a primer. Primer helps the paint adhere better and can provide a smoother finish. Use a primer specifically designed for the surface you're painting.

• Prepare the Work Area: Choose a well-ventilated area to work in, preferably outdoors or in a properly ventilated room. Cover the surrounding area with a drop cloth or layers of newspaper to protect surfaces from overspray.

• Shake the Spray Paint Can: Before you start painting, shake the spray paint can vigorously for at least one minute to ensure the paint is thoroughly mixed.

• Test the Spray: Perform a test spray on a piece of cardboard or scrap material to check the paint's flow and get a feel for the spray pattern.

• Apply the Paint: Hold the spray can a few centimetres away from the surface (as mentioned on the can). Apply thin, even coats using smooth, sweeping motions. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next one.

• Allow Drying Time: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time between coats and for the final cure time before handling the painted surface.

By following these preparation steps, you can ensure a clean, smooth, and durable finish when spray painting your project. Proper surface preparation is essential for achieving professional-looking results and making your spray paint project successful.

How long does spray paint take to dry?

The drying time of spray paint can vary depending on several factors, including the type of paint, the environmental conditions, and the thickness of the applied coats. Generally, spray paint dries relatively quickly compared to traditional brush-on paint. Here are some estimated drying times for different types of spray paint:

• Acrylic Spray Paint: Acrylic spray paint typically dries to the touch within 10-20 minutes. However, it may take up to 1-2 hours to be fully cured and ready for handling or additional coats.

• Enamel Spray Paint: Enamel spray paint usually dries to the touch within 15-30 minutes. It can take up to 24 hours or more to fully cure, depending on the ambient humidity and temperature.

• Lacquer Spray Paint: Lacquer spray paint dries very quickly, often within 5-10 minutes. However, it can take a few hours to fully cure and achieve maximum hardness.

Keep in mind that drying times can be affected by environmental factors such as humidity, temperature, and air circulation. Higher humidity levels or cooler temperatures may prolong drying times, while warm, dry conditions can speed up the drying process.

For best results, follow the manufacturer's instructions on the spray paint can for specific drying and recoating times. Additionally, when applying multiple coats of spray paint, it's essential to allow sufficient drying time between each coat to prevent running or sagging and achieve a smooth and even finish.

How do I store spray paint?

Properly storing spray paint is essential to maintain its quality, prevent clogging, and ensure its longevity. Here are some tips on how to store spray paint effectively:

• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Choose a cool, dry area for storing spray paint. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect the paint's quality and performance.

• Keep Away from Sunlight: Avoid exposing spray paint cans to direct sunlight, as it can lead to changes in the paint's consistency and colour.

• Store Upright: Always store spray paint cans upright to prevent leakage or clogging. Storing them on their side or upside down can cause issues with the nozzle and make it challenging to use.

• Seal Tightly: After each use, make sure to seal the spray paint can tightly. Ensure the cap is secure to prevent air from entering the can, which can cause the paint to dry out or clog the nozzle.

• Test Before Use: Before using spray paint that has been stored for an extended period, perform a test spray on a scrap material to ensure the paint is still in good condition and flows smoothly.

• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store spray paint out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.

• Dispose of Properly: If you have spray paint cans that are empty or no longer usable, dispose of them according to local waste management regulations. Empty cans can often be recycled, but be sure to check your local recycling guidelines.

By following these storage tips, you can prolong the shelf life of your spray paint and ensure it remains in good condition for future projects. Proper storage practices help you avoid common issues like clogging, uneven spraying, or drying out of the paint, allowing you to achieve the best results when you use it.

How do I remove spray paint? 

Removing spray paint can be a bit challenging, depending on the surface and the type of spray paint used. Here are some methods for removing spray paint from different surfaces:

Metal Surfaces:

• Use Paint Remover: Apply paint remover to the surface directly or mineral spirits to a clean cloth and gently rub the spray paint until it starts to dissolve and lift off. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and follow safety guidelines.
• Sanding: If the spray paint is stubborn, you can try sanding the metal surface using fine-grit sandpaper until the paint is removed.

Wood Surfaces:

• Sanding: Sand the wood surface gently with fine-grit sandpaper to remove the spray paint.
• Paint Stripper: Apply a paint stripper following the manufacturer's instructions to dissolve the spray paint. Use a scraper or putty knife to remove the paint.

Plastic Surfaces:

• Rubbing Alcohol: Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently rub the spray paint until it starts to come off.
• Nail Polish Remover: Acetone-based nail polish remover can also help remove spray paint from plastic surfaces.

Glass Surfaces:

• Paint Stripper: Apply a paint stripper following the manufacturer's instructions to dissolve the spray paint. Use a cloth to remove the paint.
• Razor Blade or Scraper: Carefully use a razor blade or glass scraper at a shallow angle to remove the spray paint from glass surfaces. Be gentle to avoid scratching the glass.

Fabric Surfaces:

• Soaking and Scrubbing: For fabric, soak the stained area in warm, soapy water and gently scrub with a soft brush until the paint loosens.

Concrete or Stone Surfaces:

• Power Washer: A pressure washer can help remove spray paint from concrete or stone surfaces. Use it with caution to avoid damaging the surface.

Always test any cleaning method in a small inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage or discolour the surface. Additionally, take appropriate safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and working in a well-ventilated area, especially when using chemical solvents.

Can I order a custom colour?
Yes, if you have a bulk order quantity of 3000 cans for a certain shade, our colour matching experts can create the exact shade for you based on a swatch that you provide. For more information regarding customization please contact us on info@cosmoscolour.com.

What is Cosmos MRO?

COSMOS MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Operations) are spray based products designed to cater to all industrial, technical, specialty functions and home improvement- be it on heavy duty machinery or simply to grease your cycle. This very convenient yet specialised range has products to fix squeaky hinges, open tight nuts and bolts, clean your laptop/ any electrical products, insulate walls, fix cracks, remove rust, degreasing surfaces to clean your car and upholstery.

• De-rust (100, 200 & 400ml)
• Paint Remover (400ml)
• Chain Lubricant (200 & 400ml)
• Foam Cleaner (650ml)
• P.U. Foam (750ml)
• Contact Cleaner (400ml)
• Urethane Red (420ml)
• Brake Cleaner (500ml)
• Power Glue (400ml)
• Sealer (500ml)
• Leak Detector (500ml)
• Rust Shock Freeze Penetrating Oil (400ml)
• Multi Max Lube (400ml)