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In my years of painting, I have dealt with many of those pesky clogged cans. Here are some of the methods I have used to remedy them.
Step #1
Firstly, sometimes you can feel that the can is beginning to become clogged – when you change the cap and it still isn’t spraying properly. If you notice this, immediately give the can a good shake and put the fattest cap you have on it and try spraying the can upside down to get the thick solidified paint out. If you have a can with a male valve like Rustoleum, use a cap adapter with no cap and press down on the sides.
You can also try to use a sharp object like a pin to try and clear out obvious clogged paint that you can see.
Step #2
Sometimes by just waiting some time, the can will unclog. I don’t know why, it just does. Wait a few minutes/hours and try step #1 again if it doesn’t work the first time.
Step #3
If you have an air compressor, you can spray air into the can to try and clear the clog. But most people don’t have an air compressor laying around. If it’s a male valve can, you can try to put a little bit of paint thinner or acetone (nail polish remover) in the stem.
Step #4
Submerge the cans in some very hot water. You can just do this in your sink or a bucket or something, what this does is increase the pressure of the cans, and. Then repeat step #1.
Step #5
If after repeating these steps, you still have no luck, your next best option is to just pop the can and use it for a fill/background/effects in your piece. The easiest way to do this is to use a sharp object like a pair of scissors to pierce the bottom of the can. This is easier and less messy than puncturing the side of the can.