Harsh Lessons of Paint: Confounding Caps

It can be hard to find the perfect spray paint for your case, and confounding caps certainly don’t help. For example, look at this comparison of a Rust-oleum lid next to a cap painted with its contents:

On the right is what the can looks like on the shelf, and on the left is what the paint actually looks like. Don’t get me wrong, the grey on the left is an excellent faux-steel finish, but it certainly isn’t mirror chrome. Mismatch between cap and paint can also be much more subtle, with slight differences in color or finish.

So what can you do to avoid buying the wrong can? There’s 3 simple steps to avoid getting burned:

1. Paint on a piece of scrap first- You should always do this, and confounding caps are one of the many reasons
2. Save the receipt- Most big-box stores will allow you to return spray paint, as long as you have only used a small quantity
3. Read online reviews- This one speaks for itself

In conclusion, don’t get fooled by misleading caps next time you’re browsing your local store!