Best Spray Guns For Applying Plasti Dip Like A Pro

Alright, let’s cut to the chase—you’re thinking about spraying Plasti Dip, and not just some random splatter job. You want it to look pro, right? Smooth. Even. Like you knew what you were doing the whole time. Whether you’re blacking out your rims, dipping an entire car, or just messing around with some DIY projects in your garage, one thing’s for sure: your spray gun matters. Big time.

And I get it—choosing the right spray gun can feel like trying to pick a Netflix show on a Friday night. Too many options, too many opinions, and half the time you end up settling for something “just okay.”

But not today. We’re diving deep into the world of Plasti Dip spray guns—real talk, no fluff, and all the info you need to pull off a job that’ll make people go, “Wait, you did that yourself?”

Whether you’re here because you’re tired of the streaky mess that aerosol cans leave behind, or you just want to dip your ride without dropping a fortune at the auto shop, you’re in the right place. This guide isn’t just about gear—it’s about getting the confidence to spray like you’ve been doing it for years, even if this is your first rodeo.

We’ll walk you through everything from the different types of spray guns, to the best models for your budget, to tips from real folks who’ve made mistakes so you don’t have to. If you’ve ever thought, “Can I really pull this off?” the answer is yes—and we’re about to show you how.

What is Plasti Dip, Anyway?

If you’re scratching your head wondering what all the hype is about—no worries, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down in plain English.

Plasti Dip is a flexible, rubberized coating that you can spray, dip, or brush onto surfaces to add a layer of protection, grip, and color. Think of it as liquid rubber that turns into a soft, peelable skin once it dries. It’s basically the duct tape of the spray world—versatile, easy to use, and surprisingly satisfying.

Originally invented to coat tool handles (yep, that’s why it’s called “Plasti” Dip), it’s now a full-blown phenomenon in the DIY and automotive world. People use it to black out car rims, protect furniture, customize electronics, and even give entire cars a fresh, non-permanent paint job.

Here’s why people go crazy for it:

It’s removable. Change your mind? Just peel it off like a sticker.
It’s protective. Shields against UV rays, road salt, scratches, and general wear and tear.
It’s grippy. Adds texture where you need it, like tool handles or gaming controllers.
It’s fun. Seriously, once you start spraying, it’s kinda addictive.

It dries into a matte, rubbery finish that’s tough but not permanent—perfect for folks who like to switch things up without the long-term commitment. Whether you’re covering chrome, refreshing plastic trim, or color-coding your gear, Plasti Dip is like the magic wand of the DIY world.

But—and it’s a big but—the final result depends heavily on how you apply it. That’s where the spray gun comes in. Because let’s be real: while aerosol cans are fine for tiny projects, if you want a smooth, professional finish (and to actually enjoy the process), you need to level up your gear.

Who’s Actually Searching for This Stuff?

Glad you asked.

1. Car Modders & DIY Detailers If you’re into cars—even just a little—you’ve probably thought about dipping your wheels, trim, or badges. These folks want showroom looks without the pro price tag.

2. Weekend Warriors Garage guys (and gals) who love tinkering. They might not be pros, but they take pride in a job well done. They’re the ones turning their garages into mini paint booths on a Saturday morning.

3. Small Auto Shops Yep, even smaller detailing businesses search for pro-level spray guns that won’t cost them their lunch money. Plasti Dip is in demand, and shops want reliable tools to deliver consistent results.

4. Curious Newbies Maybe you saw a TikTok. Or your friend showed off their dipped wheels. Now you’re intrigued but need the lowdown before diving in.

Whatever your vibe, this guide’s got you.

Types of Spray Guns: Know Your Tools

Not all spray guns are created equal—and when you’re working with something like Plasti Dip, that difference matters. This stuff is thicker than traditional paint and needs to go on in smooth, even layers. So before you grab the first gun that pops up on Amazon, let’s break down your options.

🔫 HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) Spray Guns

These are the go-to for a reason. HVLP guns use a lot of air at a low pressure to apply the coating smoothly and evenly. This means less overspray and more control—two things you definitely want when applying something peelable like Plasti Dip.

Best for: Most Plasti Dip jobs, especially cars and wheels
Why it’s great: Great atomization, even coverage, and less waste
What to watch for: Needs a decent air compressor (with enough CFM and PSI output)

Perfect for both beginners and pros, HVLP guns are a sweet spot between precision and power.

⚡ LVLP (Low Volume Low Pressure) Spray Guns

Think of LVLP as HVLP’s air-saving cousin. These guns use less air, which makes them a good match for folks with smaller or portable compressors.

Best for: Budget or limited air setups
Why it’s great: Air efficient, affordable, easy to control
What to watch for: May need to thin your Plasti Dip slightly for smoother flow

If you’re in a tight spot with your gear, LVLP can get the job done—you’ll just need to be a little more mindful with your technique.

🔌 Electric Spray Guns

No compressor? No problem. These plug-in guns are basically spray-painting made simple. Just fill the container, plug it in, and start spraying.

Best for: Beginners, hobbyists, and small-scale projects
Why it’s great: Portable, easy to set up, no extra equipment needed
What to watch for: Less control, heavier in the hand, can clog with thick dip

Some models—like the Wagner FLEXiO—are solid performers, but they still don’t quite match the finesse of compressor-powered HVLP units.

💨 Airless Spray Guns

These beasts are more common in construction than car work. Airless systems push material out at high pressure without using compressed air.

Best for: Large surface areas (like walls or fences)
Why it’s great: Fast coverage, high material flow
What to watch for: Way too much power for delicate dip work—overspray and pooling can be a problem

Bottom line: not recommended for Plasti Dip unless you really know what you’re doing.

🧪 Gravity Feed vs. Siphon Feed

One last distinction to make—where the paint cup sits.

Gravity feed guns have the paint cup on top. Gravity helps pull the dip into the gun, which means smoother flow and less air required.
Siphon feed guns pull the dip up from below the nozzle. These need more air pressure and are generally less efficient with thicker materials.

Verdict: Go with gravity feed for Plasti Dip. They’re easier to clean, use less air, and give you more precise control.

Now that you know your options, you’re in a way better place to choose the right tool for your next dip job. Don’t just buy what’s trendy—buy what fits your setup and skill level. Up next: the top guns that actually get the job done.

Top 5 Spray Guns for Plasti Dip (Let’s Get to the Good Stuff)

🥇 1. Wagner FLEXiO 590

Type: Electric HVLP
Why it’s awesome: No compressor needed. Adjustable settings. Decent for wheels and small panels.
Best for: Beginners
Downside: Not great for full-car jobs. Can get heavy after a while.

🥈 2. TCP Global HVLP Spray Gun Set

Type: Compressor-fed HVLP
Why it’s awesome: Comes with different tip sizes. Great value. Professional feel.
Best for: Intermediate DIYers
Downside: Needs a solid air compressor setup

🥉 3. DeVilbiss StartingLine HVLP Kit

Type: HVLP
Why it’s awesome: Excellent atomization. Solid build quality. Trusted brand.
Best for: People who want a flawless finish
Downside: Not the cheapest, but worth it

⭐ 4. HomeRight Super Finish Max

Type: Electric
Why it’s awesome: Affordable, user-friendly, easy to clean
Best for: Beginners, small projects
Downside: Limited control compared to compressor guns

🔧 5. SPRAYIT SP-33000 LVLP Gravity Feed Gun

Type: LVLP
Why it’s awesome: Great for smaller compressors. Decent control. Lightweight.
Best for: Budget setups
Downside: May need to thin dip more

How to Use a Spray Gun for Plasti Dip (Without Screwing It Up)

Let’s be real. You could have the best gun on the planet and still end up with a bubbly mess if you don’t use it right.

Here’s the quick-start crash course:

Clean the surface – Dirt, oil, and old wax are your enemies.
Mix the dip well – Shake it like a Polaroid picture.
Test spray – Always test on cardboard or scrap before hitting the real thing.
Multiple thin coats > 1 thick coat – Patience, my friend.
Overlap each pass slightly – Avoid streaks.
Let each coat dry 15–30 mins – Don’t rush it.

Pro Tips from Real People Who’ve Done It

Warm the can or dip before spraying. It flows better.
Keep your hand moving—staying still in one spot = drips.
Use masking tape & plastic sheeting for a clean job.
Clean your spray gun after every session. Seriously. Don’t skip this.

FAQ Time (Because You Were Probably Gonna Ask Anyway)

Q: Can I just use Plasti Dip aerosol cans?
A: You can, but for larger projects or a smoother finish, spray guns win every time.

Q: Do I need to thin Plasti Dip?
A: Sometimes yes, especially with LVLP or older HVLP guns. Use xylene or naphtha—but always follow safety guidelines.

Q: Can I reuse leftover dip?
A: Yep, just seal it tight and store it somewhere cool.

Q: How many coats should I apply?
A: 4 to 6 is the sweet spot. More for durability. Fewer if you plan to peel it soon.

Q: Is it safe to spray indoors?
A: Only with proper ventilation. Wear a mask. Be smart.

Bonus: Plasti Dip Projects That’ll Make You Wanna Start Spraying

All-black wheel sets
Chrome delete on car trim
Two-tone motorcycle tanks
DIY tool grips
Gaming controllers (yes, really)
Outdoor metal furniture makeovers

Final Thoughts (AKA The Pep Talk)

Look, you don’t need to be a pro to spray like a pro. You just need the right gear, a bit of patience, and a willingness to learn. Whether you’re turning heads at the car meet or just jazzing up your old toolbox, having a solid spray gun makes all the difference.

It’s okay to mess up the first time. It’s okay if your first coat runs or you overspray a little. That’s how you learn. What matters is that you start. That you go from thinking about it to actually doing it. Because every flawless finish you’ve seen? That started with someone who just gave it a shot.

Plasti Dip is fun, forgiving, and honestly addictive once you get the hang of it. So don’t overthink it. Pick your weapon, prep your project, and dive in. You’ll surprise yourself.

And hey, don’t keep that sweet dip job to yourself—show it off! Post it online, tag the gear you used, share what worked (and what didn’t). There’s a whole community of DIY dippers out there who’d love to see it—and maybe even learn a thing or two from you.

You got this. Let’s get to spraying. 🎨💪