5 Easy Graffiti Words for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 6 min read

Embarking on your graffiti journey is as exciting as it is colorful. It's not just about painting on walls but expressing your unique voice and style. Our tutorial today will guide you through creating easy graffiti words, even if you're just starting out. So grab your tools and let's add some color to those blank canvases!

1. Get to Know Your Tools

Understanding the tools of the trade is the first step in your graffiti journey. It's not just about the can of paint—there's more to it. Let's break it down:

Choosing Your Spray Paint

Not all spray paints are created equal. For graffiti, you need colors that pop and last. Montana Black or Ironlak, for example, are popular choices among artists for their vibrant colors and durability. Remember, the better the paint, the brighter your easy graffiti words will be.

Understanding Caps and Nozzles

The cap or nozzle of the spray can controls how the paint comes out. A skinny cap is perfect for detailed work and thin lines, while a fat cap is great for filling in large areas quickly. Most spray cans come with a standard cap, but you can buy additional ones to suit your needs.

The Importance of Gloves and Masks

While we're all about having fun, safety is important. Always wear gloves to protect your hands from paint. A mask is also a good idea, especially if you're working in a closed space to shield yourself from fumes. Trust us, your lungs will thank you later.

Now that you're familiar with your tools, it's time to dive into the fun part: creating your first piece of graffiti art!

2. Learn the Basics

Before you start spray painting your first masterpiece, you'll need to know some basics. Graffiti is a form of art, and like any other art form, it has its own rules and techniques. Let's take a look at what you need to know:

Fundamentals of Lettering

Creating easy graffiti words starts with understanding the structure of letters. Graffiti lettering often exaggerates and distorts the normal shapes of letters, but they still follow some basic rules. Practice sketching out the alphabet in your own style, paying attention to how each letter can twist and bend while still remaining readable.

The Art of Shading

Shading adds depth and dimension to your graffiti words. It can make your letters seem to pop off the wall. Start by choosing a light source direction, then add shading on the opposite side of each letter. This might sound tricky at first, but with practice, your easy graffiti words will start to come to life.

Practicing Strokes

Control is key in graffiti. The more control you have over your spray can, the more precise your work will be. Practice different strokes on a piece of cardboard before moving onto a wall. Experiment with line thickness, shapes, and how close you hold the can to the surface. Remember, the goal here is consistency.

Okay, you've got the basics down. Now it's time to apply what you've learned and start creating!

3. Start with Simple Words

Now that you've gotten a hang of the basics, it's time to start creating some easy graffiti words. Don't worry about creating a full masterpiece just yet; starting with simple words is the best way to practice your skills.

Choosing Your First Words

What will your first graffiti word be? It's a more important question than you might think. Choose a word that's meaningful to you, but also consider how the letters will work together. Words with varied letter shapes, like 'graffiti', can be more challenging but also more fun to create.

Sketching Your Words

Before you start spraying, take the time to sketch out your word. This step can save you from making mistakes and help you plan your design. Use a pencil and paper to play around with different letter styles and layouts. Once you're happy with your design, you're ready to move onto the real thing.

Applying Color

Color can make or break your graffiti words. Start with a single color for your first few words to keep things simple. As you gain more confidence, you can start to experiment with different color combinations and techniques. Remember, the goal is to make your words pop and stand out.

Great job! You've created your first easy graffiti words. But don't stop there—your journey in graffiti art is just beginning.

4. Experiment with Styles

As you gain confidence in creating easy graffiti words, it's time to start pushing your boundaries a little. Experimenting with different styles can help you find your unique voice in the world of graffiti. Let's explore some ways you can start to add more flair to your creations.

Trying Different Fonts

There are countless fonts out there, each bringing a different vibe to your graffiti words. From bold block letters to sleek cursive styles, the possibilities are endless. Try recreating your favorite words in various fonts. Not only will this enhance your skills, but it will also add a new dimension to your graffiti art.

Experimenting with Colors

You've already started working with colors, but now it's time to take it up a notch. Consider using multiple colors in one word, or using a gradient effect. Experiment with contrasting colors to make your words really stand out. Remember, there are no strict rules in graffiti art—feel free to let your creativity flow.

Adding 3D Effects

Want to make your graffiti words really pop? Try adding some 3D effects. This can be a little tricky for beginners, but with practice, you'll be able to create graffiti words that look like they're jumping off the wall. Start by adding a drop shadow to your words, and as you get better, you can try more complex 3D effects.

By experimenting with different styles, you're not just creating graffiti—you're creating art. And remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process.

5. Create Your Own Masterpiece

After mastering the basics, experimenting with styles, and getting comfortable with your tools, you're ready to create your own graffiti masterpiece. This is your chance to bring together everything you've learned and make something that truly represents you. Let's dive into the final steps of this journey.

Planning Your Composition

Before you start spraying, take some time to plan your composition. This means deciding on the words you want to include, the arrangement of these words, and the overall design of your piece. This step is crucial in ensuring that your final work is balanced and visually striking. Don't be afraid to sketch out your ideas before you start—this can help you visualize your piece and make any necessary changes before you commit to spray paint.

Working on a Large Scale

One of the most exciting aspects of graffiti is its scale. As you get more comfortable, consider moving from small sketches to larger pieces. This can be a challenge, as you'll need to consider factors like the size of your letters and the space between them. But don't worry—with practice, you'll learn how to create impactful graffiti pieces that grab attention from a distance.

Final Touches

Once you've sprayed your masterpiece, you might think you're done. But there's one more step—adding the final touches. This could include outlining your letters to make them stand out, adding a background to make your piece pop, or even including smaller details that give your piece a unique twist. These final touches can make the difference between a good piece and a great piece.

Creating your own graffiti masterpiece isn't just about the end product—it's about the journey you take to get there. So take your time, enjoy the process, and most importantly, have fun with it. After all, graffiti is about expressing yourself, and there's no 'right' or 'wrong' way to do that.

If you've enjoyed learning about graffiti words for beginners and want to explore more unique art styles, check out the workshop 'How To Make Glitch Art' by Tom Glendinning. This workshop will teach you how to create stunning digital glitch art pieces, adding a new skill to your artistic repertoire.