If you want to paint your cardboard for giving a fantastic customized look, you will require the best paint to use on cardboard because you can not use any substandard paint that will be damaged if you bend or use water on your cardboard.
Best Paint for Cardboard

Most people use cardboard for crafting purposes, where they need the most durable and smooth color. And if you are like most people, the best paint for cardboard will not disappoint you with the paint quality.

You must use the best paint for cardboard available in the market that will not damage or spoil the paint on your cardboard due to bending, cutting, or reshaping your cardboard.

So here in this write-up, we will discuss the ten best paints to use on cardboard so that you don't get lost on the internet to find a perfect one.

If it seems intimidating to you to paint cardboard because you have not ever done this before, let us assure you that it's not as hard as you think it is. What you need to do is that you have to know the exact procedure to do that. Because if you treat your cardboard like metal or wood, that would be very unfair.

So, before you paint your cardboard, knowing the fundamentals are essential.

  • Firstly, you must clean the surface so that you can get the maximum adhesion. Clean surfaces ensure ultimate stickiness for lasting use.
  • After you are done cleaning your surface, it's better if you use a latex primer. Because cardboard is liquid absorbent like paper, so if you use a primer that will lock the paint's surface so that the color doesn't get absorbed easily. But if you use spray paint, then without priming the surface you will get a flat finish.
  • At last, when you are done applying the primer, you can apply any paint we mentioned on the top 10 list. If you use acrylic or oil-based paint, you must ensure that the brush or roller you are using is clean.

What is the Best Paint for Cardboard?

Preview
Sargent Art Acrylic Paint, Set of 12 Colors pieces of...
Pintyplus Aqua Spray Paint - Art Set of 8 Water Based...
MARSH-30394 Mark Over Paint, 11 oz Spray Can, Tan
Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint, 14 Rich Pigments Colors...
Coyote Brown 12 Oz. Spray Paint
Colorations Washable Tempera Paint, Set of 6 Colors,...
Product Name
Sargent Art Acrylic Paint, Set of 12 Colors pieces of...
Pintyplus Aqua Spray Paint - Art Set of 8 Water Based...
MARSH-30394 Mark Over Paint, 11 oz Spray Can, Tan
Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint, 14 Rich Pigments Colors...
Coyote Brown 12 Oz. Spray Paint
Colorations Washable Tempera Paint, Set of 6 Colors,...
Brand
Sargent Art
PINTY PLUS
MARSH
Magicfly
Rothco
Colorations
Type
Acrylics Paint
Spray Paint
Spray Paint
Acrylics Paint
Spray Paint
Acrylics Paint
Size
16oz Bottles
150 ML
11 oz
12 oz
12 oz
08 oz
Used On
Arts & Crafts/Fabric,Cardboard & More
Arts & Crafts/Fabric,Plastic,Metal,Wood,Cardboard & More
Arts & Crafts/Plastic,Metal,Wood,Cardboard
Artist & Hobby Painters
Arts & Crafts Metal,plastic etc
Arts & Crafts
Preview
Sargent Art Acrylic Paint, Set of 12 Colors pieces of...
Product Name
Sargent Art Acrylic Paint, Set of 12 Colors pieces of...
Brand
Sargent Art
Type
Acrylics Paint
Size
16oz Bottles
Used On
Arts & Crafts/Fabric,Cardboard & More
Details
Preview
Pintyplus Aqua Spray Paint - Art Set of 8 Water Based...
Product Name
Pintyplus Aqua Spray Paint - Art Set of 8 Water Based...
Brand
PINTY PLUS
Type
Spray Paint
Size
150 ML
Used On
Arts & Crafts/Fabric,Plastic,Metal,Wood,Cardboard & More
Details
Preview
MARSH-30394 Mark Over Paint, 11 oz Spray Can, Tan
Product Name
MARSH-30394 Mark Over Paint, 11 oz Spray Can, Tan
Brand
MARSH
Type
Spray Paint
Size
11 oz
Used On
Arts & Crafts/Plastic,Metal,Wood,Cardboard
Details
Preview
Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint, 14 Rich Pigments Colors...
Product Name
Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint, 14 Rich Pigments Colors...
Brand
Magicfly
Type
Acrylics Paint
Size
12 oz
Used On
Artist & Hobby Painters
Details
Preview
Coyote Brown 12 Oz. Spray Paint
Product Name
Coyote Brown 12 Oz. Spray Paint
Brand
Rothco
Type
Spray Paint
Size
12 oz
Used On
Arts & Crafts Metal,plastic etc
Details
Preview
Colorations Washable Tempera Paint, Set of 6 Colors,...
Product Name
Colorations Washable Tempera Paint, Set of 6 Colors,...
Brand
Colorations
Type
Acrylics Paint
Size
08 oz
Used On
Arts & Crafts
Details

There are three types of paint you can use to paint cardboard or cardboard boxes. These are acrylic, oil, and spray paint. Each of them is used based on the user's requirements. Some people want a brighter color over ease of application.

Then they go for oil-based paint instead of acrylic paint. Someone wants ease of application with ultimate and easy coverage; then, they go for spray paint over oil-based paint.

It will depend on you to choose the right one for you according to your requirements.

But here in this article, we will cover all of them. So don't keep your eyes away.

Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint Set

Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint, 14 Rich Pigments Colors...

Painting on cardboard with ultimate bright and the smooth color is now possible with Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint. This is one of the best acrylic paint on cardboard.

You can not paint something, ensuring decent quality with substandard paint. While painting something on your cardboard will require a variety of colors along with superior quality so that the paint looks more lively and beautiful. If you want to paint your canvas full of colors to create a unique piece of art, Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint Set will be a big help.

If you buy a set of Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint, you will get 14 different colors with outstanding coverage on the cardboard canvas. The bigger volume of 240 ml/8. 12 fl oz of a single bottle will save your money by a lot.

With the classic gold and silver color variation, it will be easy for you to create any artwork you want. The vibrant color of this acrylic paint will ensure that every color can make a clear and smooth visual on the cardboard or canvas surface.

Without any additional color, you can blend or mix this acrylic paint easily for any professional use. The bright colors are not going to disappoint you at all.

Pros

  • Bright and Vibrant Color.
  • Easy for blending.
  • Ultimate coverage.
  • Ideal for painting purposes.
  • Top-quality paint for long-lasting.

Cons

  • The paint will disappoint you if you don't shake it.

MARSH Mark Over Paint, 11 oz Spray Can

MARSH-30394 Mark Over Paint, 11 oz Spray Can, Tan

If you want to get rid of unintended chemical marks from your cardboard, you will require something to cover up the blemishes or old and damaged spots. And what can do better than MARSH Mark Over Paint?

Using the MARSH Mark Over Paint, you can give your cardboard an excellent smooth look. You can use this paint to recycle your cardboard box for further use. It can cover up any marks for its paint formula. This is one of the best paint for cardboard boxes for ultimate cover up.

The highly visible color of MARSH Mark Over Paint makes it suitable for painting and crafting design. It gives a bright, vibrant color that even pops out in the low light. You can use this paint without any doubt for any artistic purpose. You can also use it on wood, plastic, or paper surfaces, not only on cardboard.

The paint will undoubtedly stick longer on the surface. It does even take much time to dry. So you will not be wasting your time using a can of MARSH Mark Over Paint.

Pros

  • CFC free paint that is good for the environment.
  • Quick Dry.
  • Vibrant and bright color.
  • It can cover anything on a cardboard surface.
  • The price is affordable.
  • Lead-free.

Cons

  • It needs to improve the stickiness a bit.
  • Sometimes cover-up can be noticeable if the color doesn't match with your cardboard.

Pintyplus Aqua Spray Paint

Pintyplus Aqua Spray Paint - Art Set of 8 Water Based...

If you are looking for a water-based paint brand that can be used on your cardboards, Pintyplus Aqua Spray Paint can be a perfect option for that.

This water-based spray paint has been developed for art and craft, especially. So if you want to use your cardboard for painting, Pintyplus Aqua Spray Paint will not disappoint you with its quality and performance.

The comfortable spray tip will ensure ease of use and ultimate coverage. The spray tip can also prevent over-spraying issues so that you don't need extra time to clean the mess.

This spray paint comes in 8 different colors, which is perfect for any professional artwork. The bright and saturated color will stand out entirely on the surface.

One of the essential and mentionable features of this paint is that it can be easily removed within 15 minutes with water or soap. This feature will help professionals to resolve their mistakes on the cardboard surface.

In the end, another satisfying feature of this PintyPlus Aqua Spray Paint is its environment-friendly paint formula, which creates a low amount of odor.

Pros

  • Ideal for professional painters.
  • Amazing Control.
  • Low odor formula.
  • 8 Different vibrant colors.
  • Premium quality.

Cons

  • Using this spray paint on cardboard, primer is needed.
  • The price is higher than acrylic paints.

Sargent Art (SARAD) Acrylic Paint Assortment

Sargent Art Acrylic Paint, Set of 12 Colors pieces of...

Here is another acrylic paint on our list to paint your cardboard. But what's the specialty about this Sargent Art Acrylic Paint, and why are we talking about this paint?

The best part about this paint that made us include this paint on our top 10 list is its water-resistant formula. Most of the time, when you accidentally pour water on the painted cardboard surface, the color gets damaged. But with Sargent Art Acrylic Paint, you will not have to worry about water damage. The paint dries immediately right after you are done painting.

Another best part about this paint is its superior quality. You can use this Sargent Art Acrylic Paint for any artistic purposes. The opaque and bright color is ideal for any cardboard or canvas.

Most of the time, acrylic paint users face discomfort for the toxic material that creates a strong odor. But if you use the AP certified Sargent Art Acrylic Paint, the non-toxic material will not generate that discomfort you were experiencing. 

Pros

  • Ideal for professional artists.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Quick Dry.
  • It contains no toxic chemicals.
  • Easy dispensing.

Cons

  • The coverage may not satisfy you.

Coyote Brown 12 Oz. Spray Paint

Coyote Brown 12 Oz. Spray Paint

If you need any paint that will not damage or spoil in any harsh condition, Coyote Brown Spray Paint is the best option for that.

When you are painting on the cardboard, you may know how absorbent cardboard is. So if the paint is not tough and thick, you will need to spend a lot of money on several extra coatings.

But if you use Coyote Brown Spray Paint, it's going to ensure a tough finish on your surface, which will not be easy to crack or peel even in any harsh condition.

The visual characteristic of a true camo cover, which color is identical to 595 federal specifications, can be a perfect option to paint your cardboard for reuse. 

The ultimate durability with maximum coverage of this paint also satisfied its user without any doubt.

Last but not least, the outstanding color quality is going to blow you away.

Pros

  • Hard finish.
  • Durable and long-lasting color.
  • Does not drip.
  • Compatible with harsh conditions.

Cons

  • The color doesn't always stay the same over time.

Colorations Washable Tempera Paints

Colorations Washable Tempera Paint, Set of 6 Colors,...

Are you looking for paint that is washable on any surface? You are in the right place because we have the answer. In our list, we have Colorations Washable Tempera Paints for you.

Colorations Washable Tempera Paints is the ultimate solution for water damage. When we paint our t-shirt or any wearable clothes, it needs to be washed for reuse.

But if you use paint that drips from the surface when it comes to contact with water, then you must use Colorations Washable Tempera Paints for saving your clothes from being spoiled by the color.

The vibrant and glossy color of Colorations Washable Tempera Paints can turn your boring cardboard or any kind of paper, plastic and wooden surface into something artistic. Having this paint in your house can also make your children interested in art for its six types of eye-

popping, bright, and vibrant colors.
This paint is non-toxic, and you can use it for different purposes like easel painting, sponge painting crafting, or any professional artwork.

Pros

  • Easy to use on any surface.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Smooth and creamy color consistency.
  • Vibrant and eye-popping color.
  • The non-toxic formula makes it perfect for the children.

Cons

  • May does not last as long as you expect.

Krylon K02732007 Fusion All-In-One Spray Paint

Krylon K02754007 Fusion All-in-One Spray Paint, Black,...

There is nothing new to talk about Krylon's product. Krylon has a reputation for making high quality paint for more than six decades. And there is a huge fan base of Krylon's creation in the painting and DIY community. And there is no exception with the quality of Krylon K02732007 Fusion All-In-One Spray Paint.

The perfect adhesion will make sure that you can use this paint on any surface you want. If you're going to cover up any old marks or damaged parts of your cardboard box, the perfect adhesion will ensure the ultimate cover-up on the surface. The bonding of Krylon K02732007 Fusion All-In-One Spray Paint is also great for giving a new look to your cardboard.

The matt black finish will leave no spot on the surface. And you don't even need any pre-treatment on your cardboard surface for ensuring low absorbent. The quick-dry feature will save you time and effort. The ease of application with its spray tip is pretty much convincing.

Pros

  • Perfect for any surface.
  • It will perfectly stick to the cardboard surface.
  • Dries fast.
  • Super thin spray pattern.
  • Hard finish.

Cons

  • Cost a bit extra.

Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint

Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint in Assorted Colors (16...

When you use high-quality acrylic paints on any surface, nothing remains impossible. To take the possibility of art beyond your imagination, we have Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint. 

This water-based paint will give a smooth matte finish when it gets dry. So if you use this paint to create any artwork on your cardboard, you won't have to worry about the color's finish. Not only cardboards, but you can also use this paint on so many surfaces like paper, wood, canvas, and styrofoam.

This paint does not contain any toxic material. Therefore your kids can use or play with this paint.

Like most other acrylic paints, Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint dries quickly, and the creamy paint color sticks on the surface correctly. This paint also doesn't lag in terms of coverage. Its maximum range will curtain the cost of your painting and art project.

Pros

  • Creamy and soft color.
  • Ultimate stickiness.
  • Non-toxic and environment friendly.
  • Matte finish.
  • Value for money.

Cons

  • You can only use this paint indoors.

Rust-Oleum 7590838 Enamel Spray Paint

Rust-Oleum 7590838 Professional High Performance Enamel...

In our list, now we have one of the best spray paint for cardboard. Yes. We are talking about Rust-Oleum 7590838 Enamel Spray Paint.

If you don't want to risk your money to buy paint, then Rust-Oleum Enamel Spray Paint is the safest option for that. This paint is compatible with any surface like wood, metal, plastic, or paper, not just on your cardboard. You can use this paint wherever you need a tough finish with a fantastic finish. This paint is also suitable to withstand weathering.

This high-quality oil-based spray paint will ensure maximum stickiness on your surface, maintaining a perfect balance between color and smoothness. If you are worried about durability, Rust-Oleum Enamel Spray Paint will never let you down.

If you want to cover up the damaged spot on your cardboard boxes, the flat finish of this paint will be able to cover all those imperfections. Therefore the cardboard will be usable after using that several times.

Pros

  • Tough and Flat Finish.
  • Compatible with heavy use.
  • Oil-based formula.
  • 50% faster coverage.
  • Maximum Adhesion.

Cons

  • The color gets dull sometimes.

Snow Cooler Acrylic Paint Set

Acrylic Paint Set, 20 Colors (60ml/2OZ) Acrylic Paints...

At the very least, we want to end with the market's best acrylic paint. With this Snow Cooler Acrylic Paint Set, there will be no color left. No matter if you are a professional or want to buy it for your children, the 20 different colors that this paint set offers will be perfect for any artwork.

If you are facing issues with mixing your color, then Snow Cooler is perfect for you. It has the best and superb color mixing mechanism to give you different types of shades and colors that you may need for professional artwork.

We suggest this paint for professional art workers for the suitability to use this paint for art techniques. But if you want your cardboard to have some artistically blended look, then Snow Cooler Acrylic Paint will not disappoint you.

The color is richly pigmented and has a fast-drying capability. The versatility of this paint is going to surprise your kids with its vibrant and bright color.

Pros

  • Ideal for professional painting projects.
  • Amazing color blending.
  • Artistic Quality color.
  • Fast Dry
  • Versatile and durable.

Cons

  • Strong Odor

How to Choose the Best Paint for Cardboard ?

When you buy the perfect paint for your cardboard, half of the job is done. To make your half of the job easy, we have reviewed the ten best paint to use on cardboard. But if you are still confused, then what we are going to tell you now will help you to fix your mind.

Basically cardboard is just hard paper. And people use it for different purposes. Some use this as a canvas for painting. Some use this for cardboard boxes. So which paint you should buy mainly depends on what purpose you need your cardboard to serve.

If you want to create an artistic design on your surface, then oil-based or acrylic paints will be a perfect choice. These paints can be easily mixed or blended with other paints and provide an artistic finish. You will find many color variations of these paints that are indeed needed for any art project.

But if you want to cover up the imperfection on the cardboard surface, you must use the best spray paint for cardboard because it's easy to use. Also, it provides the ultimate coverage.

That's what you need to cover a more expansive space with the paint. Most importantly, it will cost you less than any other paint. And it is obvious that you will not spend so much money to cover up the spot on your cardboard.

Conclusion:

We know how much effort it takes to do any artwork on your cardboard to make it look good. Sometimes you need to cover up the scratches on your cartoons that are made with cardboards. 


To help you, we wrote this article to give a clear idea about how you will pick the right paint to make your cardboard brand new and reusable.


From now on, finding the best paint for cardboard will not be a stressful job. From our top 10 list, we pinned out every useful feature you need to know about the paint.


You can now choose the perfect paint to give your cardboard an artistic look.

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com.

Scroll to Top