Oil- and water-based metal paints come in large cans, for use with brushes or rollers, or aerosol cans, for spray application. Large cans may be the most cost-effective option when painting large, linear metal objects such as fences and backsplashes, but spray paints (e.g., Rust-oleum Hammered Metal Finish Spray, $8.74 for 12 oz. on Amazon) are more convenient when painting smaller surfaces with irregular contours, such as curved patio chair legs, light fixtures, or bed frame poles. Spray paint can cover these metal surfaces more smoothly and with fewer applications than a brush, and you’ll also avoid pesky brush marks.