Spray paint may seem easier to apply than liquid paint, but you still need to know how to use it properly. You must have the right materials and tools to protect the painted surface and your health. You also need to know how to prepare objects for painting and the correct painting technique.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Preparation Stage
Step 1. Gather the ingredients
Spray paints are available in a variety of brands and colors so check your choice to assess the best for the needs of the project. You will also need some other supplies for professional spray painting. Before starting, you will need:
- Spray paint in the color of your choice.
- Primary
- Newsprint, or plastic sheeting to protect the floor and other objects around the painted item.
- Cover tape
- Disposable gloves, safety glasses and ventilator masks.
Step 2. Prepare the workplace
Spray paint should only be used in a well-ventilated area as the fumes can damage breathing. Remember that paint will not adhere well if the weather is too cold or wet so it is best to wait until the humidity level is below 65% and the weather is sunny and warm enough.
- Lay down newspapers, mats, or tarpaulins. If you are working outdoors, use weights (such as rocks) to keep the protective material from being blown away by the wind. You also need to stretch this protective material wide enough so that the porch or driveway of the house is not exposed to the color of the spray paint.
- Cover any areas you don't want painted. Make sure the edges are taped well to prevent paint from seeping underneath.
Step 3. Consider using a sawhorse to hold things up
If you're painting an object that can stand firmly on an easel, it's best to use it to hold the object to be painted in the air. This will help you paint things because you don't have to bend much. An easel can also help you reach areas that are difficult to reach if an object is placed on the floor.
Step 4. Create paint boxes for small objects
If the object to be spray-painted is small enough, try placing it in a box lying on its side. Then, you can spray paint on the objects in the box so that the surface of your workspace doesn't get stained too. You can also place a small cardboard box under the object in the box to make it easier to rotate when painted.
Step 5. Clean the surface to be painted
Paint will not adhere well to dusty, greasy, and dirty surfaces. Take a few minutes to wipe away any dirt that may have stuck to the surface to be spray-painted.
- You can clean the item with just a rag, or use a household cleaning product if the surface is quite dirty. Just make sure the item is completely dry before painting.
- If there is any sticky residue on the surface of an object, such as an old price tag sticker, scrape it off and use a household cleaner to remove the residue.
- You can use sandpaper to smooth out rough surfaces. This helps to produce a smooth spray paint surface.
Part 2 of 3: Keeping Safe and Using Correct Techniques
Step 1. Put on protective gear
Before starting, make sure you are wearing a respirator mask, safety glasses, and disposable gloves. Safety glasses will protect your eyes in case the paint is blown back onto your face. Meanwhile, gloves and a respirator need to be worn because spray paint is toxic. Put everything on before starting to paint.
- Respirators are usually sold for IDR 300,000-450,000, but these devices are still cheaper than the cost of seeing a doctor due to respiratory problems.
- Rest if you feel lightheaded, nauseous, or have trouble breathing. Remember, your health and safety is more important than this project.
Step 2. Spray the primer first
Shake the can of primer for about 3-4 minutes before use. Then, start by spraying back and forth along the painted object. Spray the primer evenly over the entire object. Then, wait until the primer is completely dry.
- You only need to apply a coat of primer before painting things.
- Using a primer before spray painting helps ensure you get an even finish. Otherwise, you'll need to apply several coats of paint to make it look even.
Step 3. Shake the can well
Shake the paint can for about 3-4 minutes before starting. This will ensure the paint mixes well, which is important for ensuring the color remains consistent in your project.
Remember that you can't shake the can too much, but you can shake it too little
Step 4. Perform a point test
Spray paint on an inconspicuous part of the object, or on old wood or cardboard. That way, you can see how the paint will look when it's sprayed on the object. You also test the right distance to spray to get the desired result.
Part 3 of 3: Painting Things
Step 1. Spray one coat of paint over the entire project
Be sure to rub the paint over the entire surface of the project so that it is even. Do not aim the paint can nozzle at only one point. Also, slightly overlap the sprays so that there are no gaps between the parts to be sprayed.
- Hold the paint can about 20 cm from the object, moving it back and forth at a speed of about 30 cm per second.
- The paint layer should not be thick because it can drip and stick. This keeps the paint layer from smearing. It's better to apply a few thin coats of paint and wait for each coat to dry before applying a new coat.
- Keep in mind that the first coat tends to smudge and the original color appears to penetrate the paint. However, the blotchy area will be covered with a second coat of paint.
Step 2. Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely
Most spray paints require a minimum of 24 hours to dry before a second coat of paint can be applied. Don't rush. You will need to be patient and wait for the paint to dry completely before spraying the next coat of paint.
Step 3. Spray a second coat
Even if it doesn't seem necessary, a second coat of paint will give a more even finish. This allows the entire surface of the object to be coated with paint and produces the brightest colors.
Step 4. Wait for the second coat of paint to dry
Leave the paint for 24 hours to dry completely. Then, get rid of the tape used to protect certain areas of the object. Clean the tarp or newspaper and store any leftover paint in a dry, clean area.
Step 5. Spray the cover paint, if desired
Most spray paints do not require a coat of paint unless they will be handled frequently. However, you can add a coat of paint to spray-painted items. Get some clear spray paint and spray a light coat on the item once it's completely dry. Then, allow the cover paint to dry for at least 24 hours and add a coat if needed.
- Wait for the final coat of paint to dry completely before touching or moving objects.
- Keep in mind that this coat of paint is optional. If you are satisfied with the results of the spray paint, you don't need to apply cover paint.
