As an avid crafter, DIYer, and bargain hunter, I know firsthand the satisfaction of finding a great deal on supplies for my latest project. And when it comes to affordable and accessible options, it‘s hard to beat Dollar General. But as a discerning shopper, I also want to make sure I‘m getting a quality product that will give me the results I‘m after.
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That‘s why I‘ve put together this exhaustive guide to buying spray paint at Dollar General. I‘ll cover all the essential information you need to make an informed purchase, including:
- The specific types and brands of spray paint carried at Dollar General
- How Dollar General‘s spray paint offerings compare to other retailers in terms of price and quality
- Key factors to consider when choosing a spray paint for your project
- Expert tips and tricks for getting the best results with spray paint
- Important safety precautions and environmental considerations
Whether you‘re a novice crafter or a seasoned pro, by the end of this guide, you‘ll have all the knowledge you need to confidently select and use spray paint from Dollar General. Let‘s get started!
Spray Paint 101: The Basics
Before we dive into the specifics of Dollar General‘s spray paint selection, let‘s review some fundamental information about this versatile medium.
Spray paint is a type of paint that is dispensed from a pressurized can in an aerosol form. It was first invented in 1949 by Edward Seymour, who developed a can with a built-in spray head after his wife requested a faster, easier way to paint her wicker chairs.[^1]
Over the years, spray paint technology has evolved and expanded to include a wide array of finishes, colors, and formulations for various surfaces and applications. Some common types of spray paint include:
- General purpose: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use on wood, metal, plastic, and more
- Enamel: Hard, durable finish often used on appliances, vehicles, and outdoor furniture
- Lacquer: Fast-drying, lustrous finish ideal for wood and metal crafts
- Chalkboard: Turns any surface into a usable chalkboard
- High heat: Withstands temperatures up to 1200°F for grills, engines, and stoves
- Metallic: Creates a shiny, reflective finish in gold, silver, brass, and more
- Textured: Adds dimension with a stone, hammered, or sand finish
- Glitter: Infuses sparkle and shine to any project
The global spray paint market size was valued at USD 2.9 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2021 to 2028.[^2] This growth is largely driven by increasing urbanization, rising disposable income, and the popularity of DIY projects and home improvement.
Spray paint is beloved by crafters and DIYers for its ease of use, quick dry time, and smooth, even coverage. It‘s commonly used for:
- Refreshing outdoor furniture
- Updating home decor items
- Creating custom finishes on picture frames and mirrors
- Making seasonal crafts and decorations
- Painting smaller items like planters, vases, and toys
- Priming surfaces for larger paint jobs
With that background in mind, let‘s take a closer look at what Dollar General has to offer in the spray paint department.
Spray Paint at Dollar General: The Rundown
Brands and Selection
Dollar General carries one primary brand of spray paint in stores: Miracal. Miracal is Dollar General‘s in-house line of spray paint, offering a budget-friendly alternative to premium name brands.
At most Dollar General locations, you can find Miracal spray paint in three main finishes:
- Gloss: Shiny, polished finish in basic colors like black and white
- Premium: Richer color payoff and coverage in vibrant shades like red, green, brown, and blue
- Metallic: Eye-catching gold and silver metallics for adding a touch of shine
These spray paints come in 8 oz cans, with the exception of the Premium Clear topcoat which is 9 oz.
In terms of color selection, Miracal offers a somewhat limited range compared to larger brands. You‘ll mostly find classic, primary colors rather than on-trend shades or unique metallics. However, the essentials are well represented.
It‘s worth noting that Dollar General stores do not carry any other brands of spray paint like Krylon, Rustoleum, or Montana. If you have your heart set on one of those name brands, you‘ll need to look elsewhere (more on that later).
Price Point
One of the biggest draws of Dollar General‘s spray paint is the affordable price point. Miracal spray paint is one of the most competitively priced options on the market.
Here‘s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for each type of Miracal spray paint at Dollar General:
- Miracal Gloss (8 oz): $1.70
- Miracal Premium (8 oz): $3.85
- Miracal Premium Clear Top Coat (9 oz): $3.85
- Miracal Metallic (8 oz): $4.35
To put those prices in perspective, here‘s how Miracal stacks up against other popular spray paint brands at different retailers:
| Brand | Size | Price | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miracal Gloss | 8 oz | $1.70 | Dollar General |
| Rustoleum Painter‘s Touch 2X Ultra Cover Gloss | 12 oz | $4.58 | Walmart |
| Krylon ColorMaster Gloss | 12 oz | $5.99 | Michaels |
| Montana Black | 400 ml | $7.95 | Blick |
*Prices sourced from retailer websites as of September 2021 and subject to change.
As you can see, Miracal offers significant savings compared to other brands, even with a smaller can size. For casual crafters and DIYers on a budget, those cost differences can really add up over the course of multiple projects.
However, it‘s important to keep in mind that lower cost sometimes equates to lower quality. Let‘s take a look at how Miracal performs compared to the competition.
Quality and Performance
In my experience, Miracal spray paint is best suited for quick, low-stakes craft projects and basic home improvement tasks. If you need a simple, one-color finish on a small indoor item, Miracal will get the job done adequately.
I‘ve found the Gloss and Metallic finishes to be the most consistent and user-friendly. They dry relatively quickly (about 10-20 minutes to the touch for Gloss, up to an hour for Metallic) and provide even coverage with minimal drips or splatters. The Premium colors are more hit-or-miss – some have great opacity and vibrancy, while others come out thin or streaky.
Where Miracal really falls short is in durability. These spray paints simply don‘t have the same level of chip and scratch resistance as higher-end brands. They‘re also not ideal for outdoor use or high-traffic items, as the color will likely fade or peel over time.
Compared to a brand like Rustoleum, which is specifically formulated for heavy-duty applications like appliances and outdoor furniture, Miracal just doesn‘t measure up in terms of longevity. The same goes for Montana, which is favored by artists for its ultra-fine mist and vibrant, long-lasting color.
That said, for the average user who just needs a quick color refresh on a vase or picture frame, Miracal is a perfectly serviceable option. Just don‘t expect gallery-quality results or all-weather durability.
Tips for Choosing the Right Spray Paint
Whether you opt for Miracal or another brand, there are a few key factors to consider when selecting a spray paint for your project:
Surface compatibility: Make sure the paint is suitable for the material you‘re working with (wood, metal, plastic, etc.). Some surfaces may require a special primer for optimal adhesion.
Finish: Choose a finish that aligns with your desired aesthetic – gloss for shine, satin for a subtle sheen, matte for a flat look, metallic for sparkle, or textured for dimension.
Color: Consider the specific shade you need and whether you want an opaque or translucent effect. Keep in mind that lighter colors may require multiple coats for full coverage.
Durability: If your item will be handled frequently, exposed to the elements, or subject to heat or moisture, opt for a paint that‘s rated for those conditions.
Dry time: Check the label to see how long the paint takes to dry to the touch and fully cure. Fast-drying formulas are great for quick projects, but may not be as durable in the long run.
Coverage: Higher-quality paints will typically cover more square footage per can, saving you money and time in the long run.
Ease of use: Look for features like comfort spray tips, anti-drip nozzles, and easy-to-grip cans for a smoother, more controlled application.
Cleanup: Water-based formulas are generally easier to clean up with soap and water, while oil-based paints require mineral spirits or paint thinner.
By taking these factors into account, you can narrow down your options and choose a spray paint that‘s tailored to your specific project needs.
Spray Paint Best Practices
Once you‘ve got your spray paint in hand, follow these expert tips and tricks for a flawless finish:
- Always spray in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. Inhaling spray paint fumes can be harmful to your health.
- Protect your work surface with drop cloths, newspaper, or cardboard to prevent overspray.
- Clean and dry your item thoroughly before painting to ensure proper adhesion.
- Use a spray paint handle attachment for comfort and control during extended projects.
- Apply multiple thin, even coats rather than one heavy coat for a smoother, more professional look.
- Start spraying off the edge of the item and move in smooth, steady strokes to avoid drips and splatters.
- Overlap each pass slightly to eliminate bare spots or streaks.
- Let each coat dry completely before applying the next (refer to the label for recommended dry times).
- Apply a clear topcoat to protect the finish and extend the life of your project.
- Store spray paint cans in a cool, dry place away from heat sources or open flames.
By following these guidelines, you can achieve a high-quality, durable finish with any spray paint – even a budget-friendly option like Miracal.
Proper Disposal and Environmental Impact
One important consideration when using spray paint is its environmental impact. Spray paint contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can contribute to air pollution and health problems if not used and disposed of properly.
To minimize your environmental footprint and protect your health, follow these best practices:
- Always use spray paint outdoors or in a well-ventilated area with proper respiratory protection.
- Choose low-VOC or water-based formulas whenever possible.
- Buy only as much paint as you need for your project to avoid waste.
- Donate unused paint to a local school, theater group, or community organization.
- Allow empty cans to dry completely before recycling them. Most curbside recycling programs accept empty aerosol cans.
- Never puncture or incinerate spray paint cans, as they may explode or release toxic fumes.
- Dispose of dried paint residue and used drop cloths in the trash, not down the drain.
By being a responsible consumer and properly disposing of your spray paint supplies, you can enjoy your favorite hobby while minimizing your impact on the planet.
Where Else to Buy Spray Paint
If you can‘t find the color or finish you need at Dollar General, or if you‘re looking for a higher-end brand, there are plenty of other retailers that stock a wide variety of spray paints.
Arts and Crafts Stores
For the best selection and expertise, head to a dedicated arts and crafts store like Michaels, Hobby Lobby, or Blick. These retailers carry an extensive array of spray paints for every project need, including:
- Basic colors in gloss, satin, and matte finishes
- Specialty metallics, glitters, and textured finishes
- High-performance formulas for outdoor use or industrial applications
- Unique finishes like chalkboard, stone, and crackle
- Primers, sealers, and clear topcoats
You‘ll find all the top brands, including Krylon, Rustoleum, and Montana, as well as budget-friendly store brand options. Prices tend to be slightly higher than at general retailers, but you‘ll have access to a wider range of colors, finishes, and can sizes.
Many arts and crafts stores also offer classes, demos, and project ideas to help you get the most out of your spray paint purchase. And if you‘re a frequent crafter, you can often take advantage of coupons, sales, and loyalty programs to save on your favorite brands.
Hardware Stores
Another great option for spray paint is your local hardware store, such as Home Depot, Lowe‘s, or Ace Hardware. These retailers stock a robust selection of spray paints geared towards home improvement projects, including:
- Appliance epoxies for updating refrigerators, washers, and dryers
- High heat enamels for grills, stoves, and fire pits
- Rust-resistant formulas for metal furniture, fences, and tools
- Concrete and masonry paints for outdoor walkways and patios
- Reflective and glow-in-the-dark paints for safety and visibility
Prices at hardware stores are typically competitive with general retailers, and you can often find great deals on multi-packs or bulk purchases. And if you have any questions about which type of paint to use for a particular surface or application, the knowledgeable staff can point you in the right direction.
Online Marketplaces
For the ultimate convenience and selection, you can‘t beat online shopping. Marketplaces like Amazon, Etsy, and eBay offer a vast array of spray paints from both major brands and independent sellers.
One advantage of buying spray paint online is the ability to easily compare prices and read customer reviews before making a purchase. You can also find niche brands and hard-to-find colors that may not be available in stores.
However, keep in mind that shipping costs and hazardous materials fees may apply when ordering spray paint online. And be sure to purchase from a reputable seller to avoid counterfeit or expired products.
Conclusion
In summary, Dollar General is a solid choice for affordable, basic spray paint in a pinch. The store‘s Miracal brand offers a small selection of gloss, metallic, and premium finishes at unbeatable prices, making it a great option for quick craft projects and low-stakes DIYs.
However, if you‘re looking for a wider color selection, higher-end finishes, or heavy-duty durability, you may want to explore other retailers like arts and crafts stores, hardware stores, or online marketplaces.
Regardless of where you purchase your spray paint, be sure to follow best practices for application, cleanup, and disposal to ensure a smooth, professional finish and minimize your environmental impact.
With the right tools, techniques, and a little creativity, you can transform any surface into a work of art with spray paint. Happy crafting!
[^1]: "The History of Spray Paint." Krylon, https://www.krylon.com/the-history-of-spray-paint/.
[^2]: "Spray Paint Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Application (General Industrial, Automotive, Architectural), By Region (North America, Europe, APAC, CSA, MEA), And Segment Forecasts, 2021 – 2028." Grand View Research, Feb. 2021, https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/spray-paint-market.
