How to: Durable Splatter Paint Finish

Different-size paintbrushes splatter paint differently.

Splatter painting may seem easy, but it takes some skill and practice to achieve the results you anticipate. You can splatter paint almost any surface, from walls to canvas. In addition, you can use any type of paint to splatter paint, including latex, oils, acrylics and even watercolors. No matter what type of paint you use, it is important to seal the paint for a durable finish. The best way to seal the paint is with sprayed-on clear varnish or lacquer.

Things You'll Need

• Drop cloths
• Masking tape
• Paint
• Paintbrush
• Rags
• Clear varnish spray

Instructions

1. Move all furniture out of the room where you will be painting. Cover the floors and walls with plastic or drop cloths and tape them into place to secure them. Anything left uncovered may be splattered with paint.

2. Prepare your surface by painting it the color you've selected for the background. Allow the paint to dry.

3. Dip a rag into the darkest color you want to splatter and sling it toward your painting surface. This will leave large splotches of color on the background. Continue until the paint pattern of large splotches suits you. Repeat with the lighter colors.

4. Dip a paintbrush into the darkest color of paint, coating it well. Standing several inches from the painting surface, run your hand or another paintbrush across the bristles of the loaded brush. This will splatter small amounts of paint onto the surface. Continue until you are happy with this pattern, and then add the lighter colors in the same manner.

5. Allow the surface to dry completely to the touch. Decide if you want a gloss or matte finish on your art, and if the finish needs to dry to a hard surface or be protected from wear and tear. Purchase the correct clear coat or lacquer to meet your needs.

6. Shake the can of clear spray varnish or lacquer for at least one minute, until the product is thoroughly mixed. Hold the can 12 to 24 inches from the surface and apply a light coat to the splatter-painted surface. Apply a second and third coat if desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Empty ketchup bottles, water balloons and small cups also make interesting splatter patterns. Experiment with making splatters before you begin your project to figure out which tools you prefer.

References

• WatercolorPainting.com; Watercolor Techniques: Splatter & Spray Watercolor Tutorial; Gregory Conley