8 Fun Spray Paint Crafts for Teens to Try This Summer

Looking for something fun (and just a little messy) to dive into this summer? These spray paint crafts are the perfect way to turn everyday items into bold, colorful masterpieces! Whether you’re decorating your space, creating awesome gifts, or just getting creative for the fun of it, these teen-friendly DIYs are easy, exciting, and budget-friendly. Most use thrifted or forgotten treasures you probably already have-so let’s grab some paint and get spraying!

Always Spray Smart

Before you let your kiddos loose with the spray paint be sure to have them spray smart by:

• Always spray outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• Use gloves and a mask for safety.
• Let each coat dry before adding more or flipping pieces.

1. Rustic Rainbow Horseshoes

Got some old horseshoes from a garage sale or a barn clean-out? Don’t toss them-transform them! Clean them up, then spray them in bright rainbow colors or go with a sleek metallic finish. Hang them on your wall (open end up for luck!), or use them as funky paperweights.

🖌 Try this: Use painter’s tape to create color block patterns!

2. Boho Wicker Plate Holders Turned Wall Art

You’ve probably seen those circular wicker plate holders at thrift stores-super cheap, super outdated. But with a little spray paint, they become instant boho wall art. Choose bold neons, soft pastels, or even ombre tones to match your vibe. Group 3 or more together for a cool gallery wall look.

🎯 Tip: Spray lightly in layers so the wicker doesn’t get soggy or too saturated.

3. Glow-Up Photo Frames

Take those plain, boring photo frames and give them a total makeover. Neon pink? Yes. Chrome silver? Absolutely. Match your room’s aesthetic or go wild with color. Add your favorite summer pics and boom-instant mood booster.

📸 Idea: Spray paint a set of three frames in different shades of the same color for a cool ombré effect.

4. Color-Dipped Mason Jars

Spray paint the bottoms of mason jars in fun, summery shades and use them as vases, pencil holders, or organizers. The dipped effect looks chic and artsy, and you can match the colors to your bedroom decor.

🌸 Bonus: Add fairy lights inside for nighttime sparkle.

5. Upcycled Soda Cans into Pencil Cups

Finish a can of sparkling water? Don’t toss it-wash it out and turn it into a sleek desk accessory. Use metallic or matte spray paint for a modern look, and line them up for pens, markers, paintbrushes, or makeup brushes.

⚡ Hack: Add painter’s tape before spraying for geometric designs.

6. Statement Hangers

Spray paint wire or wooden hangers in bold colors and use them to hang up outfits, art prints, or even jewelry. It’s an easy way to add personality to your closet or bedroom wall.

👚 Level up: Use metallic gold or rose gold for a touch of glam.

7. Customized Clipboard Art

Find an old clipboard (check the dollar store or your junk drawer), spray it in a solid color, and clip on your favorite quotes, mini posters, or summer bucket list. Hang it on your wall or lean it on your desk.

📋 Fun idea: Paint a chalkboard section and use it as a mini message board!

8. Tin Can Wind Chimes

Collect a few old tin cans, spray paint them in fun colors, and hang them from a stick or hanger using twine or fishing line. Add beads, keys, or shells for extra sound and sparkle. Hang them outside for a breezy summer vibe!

🎶 Try this: Use glow-in-the-dark spray paint for night-time charm.

So there you have it – 8 creative spray paint crafts for your teens to try this summer. Do you need some more ideas?

Shop the Thrift Stores for More Ideas

Thrift stores are known for their aisle upon aisle of random housewares. Almost all of the pieces can be painted for a new lease on life. Here are some of my favorite houseware recycles with paint in addition to the 8 we mentioned above:

• salt and pepper shakers
• wood bowls
• glass bowls
• candlesticks
• boxes
• baskets
• jewelry boxes
• banana holders
• paper towel holders
• napkin rings
• wooden trays

3 Additional Spray Paint Craft Inspirations

If you’re into trash to treasure, then you will also want to check out these fun ideas for transforming housewares with spray paint.

• Did you know that you can upcycle old Christmas cookie tins into modern painted tin containers? Check out these fun ideas for old holiday tins.
• You can find baskets galore at yard sales or thrift shops. Sometimes all they need is a fresh new color. For a fun take on painted wicker baskets, try your hand at painting them to look like expensive dip-dyed baskets.
• Finally, with a few simple plastic animals from the dollar store, you can create dozens of key chains. These would make fabulous party favors or gifts! Using a metallic spray paint color gives these animal kingdom key chains such a fun look.

What Can I Do with Spray Paint Crafts?

The only downside I’ve found is that your middle school and high schoolers might get carried away with all the painting fun. What should you do with all the trash to treasure items? Glad you asked! Here are two ideas.

• Give as Gifts – You could definitely stock up on the finished spray painted crafts and store them to use later as gifts. Maybe choose your favorite idea above and count up how many gift recipients you’ll have on your family list at Christmastime. Go ahead and create the items now, store them in a safe place, and when the holidays roll around, you’ll already be ahead on the gift-giving.

• Start a Business – If your teen is really motivated, they can start a mini business and sell their creations at a local craft fair or online Etsy shop. Have your teen listen in on this podcast interview with a teenage entrepreneur who got started at her local craft shows.

Always Spray Smart

Before you let your kiddos loose with the spray paint be sure to have them spray smart. Remember to:

• Always spray outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• Use gloves and a mask for safety.
• Let each coat dry before adding more or flipping pieces.

Final Thoughts

Summer’s the perfect time to get crafty, and spray paint is your secret weapon for turning trash into treasure. So grab your goggles, shake that can, and let your creativity fly!

Which one are you trying first?