From: Murals & Illustrations / Specific to: Mural Artist
What kind of paint is used for painting murals?
The two most common options for mural paint are acrylic house paint and aerosol/spray can paint.
HAPPY DECAY’s main go-to mural paint is premium acrylic long-lasting house paint. Paint for external walls in harsh conditions, a tough, hard-wearing paint from all weather conditions. A paint that guarantees it won’t peel, flake, or blister.
Acrylic House Paints
You will find that exterior house paints will have longer-lasting qualities than aerosol spray can paints when painting a mural in full sun. Some acrylic house paint will give 25 years up to a lifetime guarantee.
You may also like to read my article on – How to Paint Murals and you can ask questions at the bottom of this article too.
Here is a list of some paints to consider for murals.
- Dulux Weathershield
- Haymes Solashield
- Taubmans All Weather
Aerosol Spray Paint
There are also aerosol paints to consider for painting murals. Just be aware that spray paint isn’t as hard-wearing as acrylic-style house paints. You can consider using a UV-resistant clear coat of paint. If you ask at your local paint shop they should be able to guide you to the best paint product for this.
If you are using spray paint on a wall in full sun then more than likely after 5-10 years there is a good chance that the colours will fade. If painting inside out of the sun then this is less of a worry.
List of aerosol/spray can paints to consider for murals
- Loop – Spray Paint
- Montana
- MTN 94 Spray Paints
Good Mural Paint
Normally the good mural paint is the one that is higher priced as you will sometimes find cheaper paints need more coats to give a full colour effect.
In particular with house paints, they will have entry-level and premium level paint. Be sure to ask at the paint store which is of higher quality if this is a concern for you.
Choosing the right paint for murals
Choosing the right paint for murals depends on several factors, including the surface you’re painting on, the location of the mural (indoors or outdoors), and your budget. Here are some common types of paint used for murals:
- Acrylic Paint: Acrylic paint is versatile and commonly used for murals. It dries quickly, is water-resistant when dry, and is available in a wide range of colors. Acrylic paints are suitable for both indoor and outdoor murals.
- Latex Paint: Latex paint is another popular choice for mural painting, especially for outdoor murals. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and easy to clean up with water. Latex paints come in various finishes, including matte, satin, and gloss.
- Oil-Based Paint: Oil-based paints provide excellent durability and coverage, making them suitable for outdoor murals. However, they have a longer drying time and require mineral spirits for cleanup, which can be more challenging than water-based paints.
- Spray Paint: Spray paint is often used for large-scale murals or for adding intricate details. It’s fast-drying and allows for smooth application, but it can be more challenging to control than brush-on paints. Make sure to use spray paint in a well-ventilated area.
- Mural Paints: Some companies offer specialized mural paints designed specifically for large-scale artworks. These paints often have high pigment concentrations, good coverage, and weather-resistant properties.
- Chalk Paint: Chalk paint is a type of matte finish paint that can give murals a unique, vintage look. It’s often used for indoor murals or decorative wall art.
- Primers and Sealers: Before painting a mural, it’s essential to prepare the surface properly. Use a primer suitable for the surface to ensure better adhesion and longevity of the mural. Additionally, applying a clear sealer over the finished mural can help protect it from UV rays, moisture, and other environmental factors.
When selecting paint for your mural, consider factors such as the mural’s size, location, expected weather exposure, and desired aesthetic. It’s also essential to choose high-quality paints and materials to ensure the longevity and vibrancy of your artwork.
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