Q&A for How to Paint on Cardboard

Gesso has a glue component that seals any porous surface. You can use acrylic paint, but you will have to apply thin layers and allow it to dry to get good coverage. The surface can end up warping if the cardboard gets too wet.

Cardboard is a porous surface that can make it difficult for some types of paint to bind to it. The best paints to use on cardboard are acrylic and spray paint, but you should use a primer like gesso to help your paint adhere to the cardboard. You'll also need to paint several layers so you can't see through them.

You can keep your cardboard from warping after you paint it by first applying a gesso primer. The gesso will create a protective surface that gives the paint something bind to. It also reduces the amount of paint that the cardboard absorbs, which will help prevent warping.

Yes! Spray paint is a great way to paint cardboard. Make sure you work in well-ventilated area to avoid breathing in the paint's fumes and place some old newspaper or an old sheet under the cardboard to protect the ground or surface behind it. Apply at least 2 coats of spray paint for better coverage.