🎨 How to Paint Pine Cones: Best Paints, Methods & Time-Saving Tips
Painting pine cones is one of the most satisfying parts of pine cone crafting — but it also brings up a lot of questions:
What kind of paint should I use? Brush or spray? Why won’t it stick or fully cover? How do I keep the cones from closing?
We’ve gathered answers from experienced pine cone crafters and compiled this guide to help you paint like a pro — with less mess, better coverage, and longer-lasting results.
🖌️ Most Popular Pine Cone Painting Methods
1. Hand Painting with Acrylics
This is by far the most-loved technique in the pine cone crafting world.
- Pros: Best for detail, relaxing, lets you control color blends
- Cons: Time-consuming, often takes 2–3 coats
Many crafters say they enjoy the process itself:
“I listen to audiobooks and enjoy my time while hand painting. It’s so relaxing.” – Group Member
Top Paint Picks:
2. Spray Painting
Great for speed and coverage, especially with large batches.
- Pros: Fast, decent base coat
- Cons: Often misses deep crevices, strong fumes, some colors need multiple coats
“I usually spray white latex paint first, then detail with acrylic paint.”
“Spray paint is easy, but I don’t like how it hides the natural texture.”
Pro Tip: Use spray paint for a base coat, then finish details by hand.
Recommended:
3. Dip Painting
Fast and messy — but with a fun payoff.
- Pros: Good coverage, fun to do
- Cons: Wastes paint, cones may close up from moisture
To reduce waste, thin the paint with a small amount of water, and hang cones to drip dry. Expect to touch up by hand afterward.
“I dipped mine in a cup with just a bit of water. Let them dry overnight, then brushed touch-ups.”
4. Airbrushing and Sponging
Less common but gaining popularity, especially for delicate shading or quick touch-ups.
- “I airbrush first, then finish by hand.”
- “I saw someone roll pine cones across a paint-soaked sponge!”
Great for getting creative with finishes and color transitions.
🎯 Favorite Paint Brands (Based on Crafter Feedback)
| Brand | Pros |
|---|---|
| DecoArt Americana | Excellent coverage, vivid colors, dries fast |
| FolkArt Multi-Surface | Great for wood, cones, and plastic — flexible use |
| Apple Barrel | Budget-friendly but needs extra coats (especially yellow) |
| Dollar Tree Paint | Surprisingly good! Some bottles are thick and vibrant, especially purple and blue. Yellow tends to be weaker |
| Chalk Paint | Offers good coverage with a single coat, great for a rustic look |
“I was hesitant about Dollar Tree paint, but the big bottles actually covered great!”
💡 Why Pine Cones Might Close When You Paint Them
If cones aren’t baked or sealed properly before painting, they can absorb moisture and close up. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Bake your cones first (200°F for 30–45 minutes) to dry them and kill bugs.
- Let them cool and fully dry before painting.
- Avoid soaking them too long during cleaning or dipping.
- If they close after painting, set them in the sun or near a heat source — they’ll reopen!
🛡️ Do You Need to Seal Painted Pine Cones?
If your craft will be used outdoors or stored for next season, sealing is highly recommended.
- Rust-Oleum Clear Sealer is a crowd favorite
- Matte or gloss spray sealers help preserve color and protect against weather
- Brush-on varnish works great for full control and shine
“I seal mine with Rust-Oleum if they’ll go outside. It protects the paint and keeps the cones from fading.”
“Gloss sealant really makes the colors pop.”
Recommended Sealers:
⚡ Final Tips from the Pros
- Use two light coats instead of one heavy one — it dries faster and covers better.
- Rotate your cones between coats for even coverage.
- For a natural look, let the brown show through instead of full coverage.
- Don’t skip sealing if you live in a humid or hot climate.
📌 Bonus: Suggested Pine Cone Paint Kits for Beginners
Want to jump right in without guessing? Start with these kits: