Throw-ups & Hollows: Speed and maximum visibility

Where the tag is the signature, the throw-up is the first real step towards a work of art. But make no mistake: a throw-up is not about artistic depth or spending hours on details. Here, one law rules: speed.

In this blog, you will read why the throw-up (or 'throwie') is essential for any writer who wants to be taken seriously in the scene.

What exactly is a throw-up?

In terms of complexity, a throw-up sits right between a tag and a masterpiece (piece). It usually consists of large, rounded letters – often called 'bubble letters' – that are put on the wall at record speed.

An experienced writer can finish a two-color throw-up (a 'fill' and an 'outline') within two minutes. Why so fast? Because these works are often placed in high-risk areas where every second counts.

*Seen throw-up - Source: Facebook

The aesthetics of the 'Bubble'

The reason most throw-ups have rounded shapes is purely practical. Sharp corners and details take time and increase the chance of mistakes under time pressure. Rounded shapes can be put on the wall with a fluid, swinging motion from your shoulder.

Tip: Try to draw your outline in one continuous motion. The less you stop your can, the cleaner the line and the lower the chance of drips.

The hollow: Minimalism in its purest form

Sometimes there isn't even time for a 'fill-in'. In that case, you often see a hollow. This is just the outline of the throw-up. Although it has less visual impact, a good hollow commands a lot of respect. You can't hide anything; without a second color, every tremor in your hand is immediately visible. A clean hollow is the ultimate proof of control over your spray can and a testament to style.

*Hollow throw-up - Source: Google

Material use: Why high-pressure is crucial

Because a throw-up uses a lot of paint in a short amount of time, you need materials that can keep up with this pace. You want paint with extremely high coverage that doesn't drip when you move quickly.

• Cap: For the fill-in of a throw-up, a Fat Cap (such as the Pink Fat or Astro Fat) is the standard. This allows you to spray a wide path of paint in one motion. Some choose a fill-in with a skinny cap, like the stock cap, for aesthetic reasons. Regarding the outline, it is also purely dependent on your style and preference. Test with skinny caps and fat caps for different results.

• Spray can: We specifically recommend high-pressure cans for this work, such as the Montana Black, Montana Burner Chrome, or Loop Colors. These cans are developed to release a lot of paint in a short time, so you can put up that silver 'burner' quickly.

Frequently asked questions about throwies

1. What is the difference between a throw-up and a piece?

A throw-up focuses on speed and quantity (many spots in a short time), while a piece (masterpiece) focuses on quality, color use, and technique, often in legal spots.

2. Which colors work best for a throwie?

Silver (Chrome) with a black outline is the classic combination. Silver covers everything, even old, dark layers of paint.

3. Why does my cap keep clogging?

With cheap paint or low pressure, paint cakes up faster. Always use professional graffiti spray cans from graffiti brands to prevent this.

This article was written by the team at Cantastic. With years of experience in the graffiti scene, we know exactly which caps and cans won't let you down. Check out our graffiti supplies for the best fat caps and high-pressure cans.