Overview
This article explains the primary types of paint used by graffiti artists, highlighting their features, preferred uses, and popular brands.
Spray Paint
- Spray paint is the most popular graffiti medium due to its portability, versatility, and speed of application.
- It allows for a wide range of effects, from detailed to large-scale works, and dries quickly.
- Professional spray paints and caps designed specifically for art are now widely available.
- Paint fumes from spray paint are toxic, so respirator masks are recommended for safety.
Low Pressure Spray Paint
- Low pressure spray paint offers more control and is ideal for detailed work and fine lines.
- Beginners are advised to use low pressure paint for easier handling and fewer drips.
- Popular low pressure brands include Montana Gold, MTN 94, and Flame Blue.
High Pressure Spray Paint
- High pressure spray paint delivers more paint quickly, making it suitable for covering large areas fast.
- It offers less control and a higher risk of drips; experienced artists can manage this better.
- Common high pressure brands are Montana Black, Flame Orange, and KOBRA.
Paint Markers
- Paint markers are a common alternative to spray paint, used mainly for tags and details.
- Early graffiti writers made homemade markers, but now professional markers are readily available.
Pump Markers
- Pump markers release paint via a valve system, suitable for thicker paint.
- Well-known pump marker brands are Posca, uni-ball, and Molotow.
Mop-style Markers
- Mop markers can produce bold, drippy tags and are often homemade or modified for bigger nibs.
- Popular mop-style markers include Dope Dripper, MTN Street Dabber, and KRINK K-60.
Emulsion Paint
- Emulsion paint is typically used to prepare walls with a solid color background before spraying.
- It helps spray paint colors appear more vibrant and is used for both commission pieces and roller graffiti.
- Roller graffiti enables large, high-up works at low cost with extended paint rollers.
- Emulsion paint is inexpensive, widely available, but not specifically made for graffiti.
Recommendations / Advice
- Wear a respirator mask when using spray paint to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.
- Beginners should start with low pressure spray paint for better control.
- Emulsion paint can be sourced from local DIY shops for background preparation or roller graffiti.