Fact or Fiction: Spray Paint

Staff

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About This Quiz

So you think you know a lot about spray paint, huh? OK, smartypants -- let's see if you can tell fact from fiction when it comes to aerosol paint.

Spray painting is dangerous.

While there are some dangers if used improperly, spray paint is fairly safe if you follow the manufacturer's instructions and paint in a well-ventilated space.

Spray Paint is only for outdoor use.

There are several varieties designed specifically to be used indoors. These are typically low-odor and fast-drying.

You should use a primer before spray painting any project.

Yes! A primer is a great way to reduce surface imperfections and achieve a smooth, final look.

You can't use spray paint to stain wood.

Most manufacturers offer options for applying spray finish to wood.

You can spray paint your lawn.

In addition to using spray paint to mark sports fields, there are also paints on the market that you can spray on a dead lawn to turn it green.

Spray paint is damaging to the environment.

Modern spray paints use chemical and organic propellants that are safer for the environment.

Spray paint fades faster than regular paint.

Spray paint will last as long as traditional roll-on paint, and there are even options formulated to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

Spray painting is faster than using a brush or roller.

It's not only faster, but spray paint offers coverage in hard-to-reach areas.

Spray painting takes practice.

It may take some time to learn just the right amount of pressure to apply and to achieve the smooth, even strokes required for the desired finish.

Spray paint always makes a mess.

If the surrounding area is masked to protect it from splatter and the can is held the proper distance from the object, clean-up should be a breeze.

Spray paint doesn't store well.

The valve in the can automatically seals itself and should prevent unused paint from drying up.

The rattle means the can is empty.

The rattle is caused by the pea, a small metal ball place inside the can to help mix the paint/propellant mixture.

Spray paint can be used to get high.

Huffing, or the intentional inhalation of aerosol compounds, can result in intoxication.

Graffiti artists use special spray paint.

As this art form has increased in popularity, manufacturers have started formulating supplies to cater to this group.

All spray paint is the same.

Spray paint comes in a variety of options designed for specific surfaces, color palettes and weather resistance.

My color isn't available in spray paint.

This one's probably false. Spray paint comes in virtually any color, shade or finish.

Spray paint dries quickly.

Spray paint dries very quickly compared to regular paint, and many brands boast curing times of less than 10 minutes.

Spray paint was invented during WWII.

WWII helped spur the popularity of aerosol sprays as a means of administering bug spray, but it wasn't until 1949 that Ed Seymour used it for paint.

Spray paint is always toxic.

Many manufacturers use non-toxic compounds in their paint formulas.

Spray paint is ideal for any project.

For painting large, featureless surface areas, using a brush or roller is probably most effective.

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