column painter?

5-8$ on spray paint is way cheaper than powder coating... but powder coating would be more durable.....

I would scuff the surface with some scotch bright as DusterDude72 said. As 68FormulaS340 said above, use a semi-gloss or matte finish spray paint. You can also find a textured paint but don't use the hammered paint for that as it is glossy and not the look you want.

Put the can in a bucket of HOT HOT water for 5-10 minutes before you use it. That gives the can a bit more pressure and makes the paint spray a lot nicer.