How To Paint a Soccer Ball (Spray and Acrylic)

Reading Time: 6 minutes

Did you know that it’s possible to spray paint a soccer ball? Yes, the same thing as painting your bedroom or deck, and it is important to select the right type of paint for what you are looking to do.

There are many different colors available, and they will last longer than water-based paints.

The only thing more satisfying than a well-placed goal is the feeling of triumph when you’ve been able to repaint your soccer ball after it’s been through the wringer and painting a soccer ball is also an easy way to add some flair. But there are a few things to keep in mind before getting started.

In this article, we will discuss:

  • How to spray paint a soccer ball
  • What kind of paint is ideal for painting a soccer ball
  • How to customize a soccer ball
White Adidas soccer ball on a field

Spray Painting a Soccer Ball

Painting a soccer ball is a great way to liven up your game. There are many ways to do this, but the easiest and most cost-effective way is by using spray paint. To achieve the best results, you will need:

  • A can of spray paint (any color)
  • An old soccer ball
  • You may also want to put some cardboard inside the ball so that nothing else falls into it when spraying

Next, clean off your ball thoroughly with warm water and soap or detergent before drying it well with paper towels.

Finding a paint that will work with latex or rubber can be quite tough, so make sure you read up on the paint type beforehand. Once you have your materials together, follow these steps:

  1. Remove all laces from the ball
  2. Fill holes in the ball with glue
  3. Paint
  4. Let dry
  5. Add new laces
  6. Play

Does Spray Paint Stick To Soccer Ball?

Yes, spray paint will stick to a soccer ball but it needs to be prepared for it to be used for soccer games without it fading.

See also  Best Soccer Ball for Footgolf (+ Beach Soccer)

Spray paint will leave a residue on your ball, and the color may fade over time because of the sun exposure, so it’s best not to use spray paint on your soccer ball.

Instead, you should use acrylic paint, which won’t leave a residue and will last much longer than regular spray paint.

Foot on a soccer ball yellow cleat and orange ball

Should You Paint a Soccer Ball?

You should paint a soccer ball if you are a creative person and have a spare soccer ball with suitable paints. They can however fade quickly over time and will need to be reapplied.

Be sure to follow this guide to prepare the ball properly for a longer-lasting effect.

If you’re a soccer player, then painting a soccer ball is a great way to get creative and express yourself.

Soccer balls can be painted in any color or design that you desire.

The most popular colors are black and white, but some players prefer orange or green for visibility.

Painting your soccer ball may require some patience because it will take time to dry before it’s ready to play with again, but after the paint has dried, you’ll have something unique.

What kind of Paint Is Ideal To Paint a Soccer Ball?

When it comes to painting a soccer ball, you want something that will stay on. The type of paint you’ll want is acrylic craft paint.

Acrylics are water-soluble and can withstand the constant rubbing and contact with other surfaces during play. This means your colors won’t rub off onto clothes or grass while playing the game!

They don’t require any sealing as oil paints do, and they dry quickly, so there’s less wait time between coats.

The best part about using acrylics is that they’re available in every color imaginable so that you can get creative with your design – whether that’s stripes, dots, or just one solid color coating for an all-over look.

It only takes a few thin layers before it dries completely.

Arteza Outdoor Acrylic Paint, Set of 20 Colors/Bottles 2 oz./59 ml. Rich Pigment Multi-Surface Craft Paints, Art Supplies for Halloween Pumpkin and Decorations, Canvas, Rock, Wood, Fabric, Leather, Paper

Will Acrylic Paint Stick To a Soccer Ball?

The question is an easy one to answer, but it’s also a difficult one. Acrylic paint sticks to anything that is porous and has enough moisture in it.

This includes soccer balls, paper towels, plaster casts, or even your hands if you paint with acrylics without wearing gloves.

This phenomenon is because water molecules bind together with the acryl resin in the paint when they contact each other.

These bonds form very quickly and are stronger than any glue-based bond made by hand or found in nature.

Will Latex Paint Stick To a Soccer Ball?

Latex paint is a type of exterior paint that can be applied to any surface and will provide durability and protection from the elements.

Applying latex paint to a soccer ball seems like an easy task, but there are some factors you need to consider before starting your project.

See also  Ideas For Old Soccer Jerseys (8 Amazing Tips)

For example, how much time do you have for this project? What is the temperature in your area right now? Do you want an opaque or semitransparent finish?

These things will affect what type of latex paint is best for your project and when it should take place.

SprayMax 2K Hot Rod Satin Black Spray Paint | Automotive Topcoat With Long Lasting and Durable Finish, High Chemical and Weather Resistance | 2 Pack

How To Paint Soccer Balls Made From Different Materials

Rubber Soccer Ball

You can paint a rubber soccer ball with the right equipment, and the process of painting a rubber soccer ball is not difficult so that anyone can do this.

  • Step 1: Paint the entire surface of the ball white.
  • Step 2: Paint each panel black and let dry for at least 24 hours.
  • Step 3: Cut out shapes from construction paper or card stock for decoration and glue them on the panels using Mod Podge or another craft glue.
  • Step 4: Let dry overnight before applying a clear coat to seal everything in place and protect it from chipping later.

Leather Soccer Ball

Ever wondered how to paint a leather soccer ball? It’s not as difficult as you think, and it’s a great weekend project. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • One can of white spray paint
  • One can of black spray paint
  • Two cans of red-ish brown spray paint (optional)
  • One box or bottle of rubbing alcohol in the same color family as your base coat.

This is an easy DIY that will only take about 20 minutes! Let’s get started.

  • Step One: Remove any stickers from the surface and wipe with a wet cloth
  • Step Two: Cover the ball with layers of either one or two coats depending on desired color intensity.
  • Step Three: Allow it to dry for at least 12 hours before playing with it again.

Synthetic Leather Soccer Ball

Painting a synthetic leather soccer ball is similar to painting a soccer ball made from animal leather. The paint will protect it from scuffs, scratches, and other damage caused by contact with grass or other surfaces.

It also has the added benefit of making the surface smoother for easier control of the ball during play.

Additionally, painting your soccer ball can make it more identifiable on game day because you’ll be able to tell which team’s colors are present on each ball.

Painting synthetic leather balls are easy enough that even beginners can do it.

Can You Take a Spray Painted Soccer Ball in Water?

A spray-painted soccer ball is a common sight on any playground. It’s easy to see why they are so popular- the bright colors and patterns make for an attractive plaything.

But can you take them in water? The answer, surprisingly, is yes.

When sprayed with paint, these balls are made of rubber vulcanized rubber (processed, so it becomes waterproof).

See also  How to Record a Soccer Game with a GoPro (Do This)

That means that while the paint might fade or flake off over time, you can still get plenty of use out of your favorite brightly colored ball before it needs to be replaced.

Just remember not to submerge them in anything other than water- no matter how tempting.

Painting a Soccer Ball

Painting a soccer ball is easy and can be done with spray paint in just a few minutes.

It would help if you used glossy or flat latex paint that’s water-based to make it easier for the next person who uses your customized soccer ball because it will not fade as quickly.

The only downside is you might get some of the colors on your hands when spraying, but this could also add character if you want an old-timey look.

For example, if you want to make an imprint on your ball using stencils or stamps, acrylic paints would be best as they can withstand high levels of pressure from the pressurized airbrush without cracking or fading away.

Second, use masking tape around objects that don’t need to be painted so as not to accidentally cover them up during application—this is especially important when working with black surfaces like our soccer balls.

Thirdly, it’s always good practice to test out any new technique first on something inexpensive.

Soccer Analyst and Publisher at Soccer Blade | Soccer Blade | + posts

Joel is a seasoned soccer journalist and analyst with many years of experience in the field. Joel specializes in game analysis, player profiles, transfer news, and has a keen eye for the tactical nuances of the game. He played at various levels in the game and coached teams - he is happy to share his insight with you.

Sharing is caring :)

Related Posts

[wp_show_posts id="13928"]

/// Awesome Adidas Cleats ///

Product: Updated 2024-04-19 | Images: Amazon Product Advertising API | #ad - soccerblade.com is an Amazon Associate

Product: Updated 2024-04-19 | Images: Amazon Product Advertising API | #ad - soccerblade.com is an Amazon Associate

Product: Updated 2024-04-19 | Images: Amazon Product Advertising API | #ad - soccerblade.com is an Amazon Associate

Soccer Products FAQ

Can I Use Running Shoes for Soccer? 

You can play soccer in running shoes, but you won’t have the best performance unless you wear cleats or soccer boots.

Why are soccer balls black and white?

Soccer balls are traditionally black and white because when soccer was first shown on TV it was in black and white, so the mix of black and white on the balls helped viewers see the ball easier. 

How hard and what pressure should a soccer ball be?

The FIFA regulations say that the soccer balls should have a pressure between 8.81757 psi (0.6 atm) and 16.1655 psi (1.1 atm). If you’re playing soccer with friends, then opt for a pressure amount from the lower range.

What is the size of goals in soccer?

5-A-Side has dimensions that are 12-ft wide by 6-ft high. Such soccer goals are for under-7 and under-8 soccer games
7-A-Side has dimensions that are 12-ft wide by 6-ft high again. Such soccer goals are for under-9 and under-10 soccer games
9-A-Side has dimensions that are 16-ft wide by 7-ft high. Such soccer goals are for under-11 and under-12 soccer game
11-A-Side or full-size soccer goal has dimensions that are 24-ft wide by 8-ft high for the under-15 and over. Whereas, for the under-13 and under-14, it is 21 ft wide by 7-ft high

What is the soccer ball size and weight for each age group?

Size 1 - 3 years or under - 18 to 20 inches - 195 to 205 grams
Size 2 - 3 to 5 years - 20 to 22 inches - U4 - 250 to 280 grams
Size 3 - 5 to 8 years - 23 to 24 inches - U5 to U8 - 300 to 320 grams
Size 4 - 8 to 12 years - 25 to 26 inches - U8 to U12 - 350 to 390 grams
Size 5 - More than 12 years - 27 to 28 inches - U12 to Pro - 410 to 450 grams


Thanks for reading our articles - we hope you've enjoyed them - have fun playing, coaching, and or watching soccer.

Disclosure: Soccer Blade is an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases., at no extra cost to you.