Spray painting can be pure joy when you understand the various aspects of the job. Aside from giving objects a new life and colour, spray paints can help you showcase your creative side. However, like all painting jobs, there is nitty-gritty that you must be aware of before starting a spray-painting project. This guide will help you in a stepwise manner.
See also: How to use a paint gun?
On what materials can you use spray paint?
Spray paint can give a nice dash of colour to objects made of plastic, metal, ceramic, wood, wicker, fabric, rubber and glass.
What supplies do you need for spray painting?
- Spray paint
- Primer
- Painter’s tape
- Newspaper or plastic sheet to protect the base, surroundings and other objects from spillage and spread
- Sawhorse
- Paintbox
What protection gear do you need for spray painting?
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in spray paints can cause nausea, headache, dizziness, breathing problems, eye-nose-throat and skin irritation. Make sure you have every protective item on this checklist:
- Respirator mask
- Rubber gloves
- Safety glasses
- Coveralls
- Shoe covers
- Hair covering
How to prepare the work area for spray painting?
Step 1: Cover the area surrounding your selected area/object with newspapers or a plastic sheet.
Step 2: Use the painter’s tape to seal any area that you want to leave unpainted. Seal the edges diligently.
Step 4: For small items, a paintbox would be a great device to ensure a no-mess paint job.
Step 5: If the item needs suspension for ease of painting, use the sawhorse.
How to prepare the item for spray painting?
Paint will stick only to a clean, dust-free surface. Make sure you clean the object/area thoroughly using mild cleaning agents and a wet rag. Use hot water to get rid of difficult grime.
How to get ready for spray painting?
Professional-grade spray paints contain VOCs, which may have short-and long-term adverse health effects. Ensure that you wear the protective gear before starting the spray paint job.
Spray painting in 9 easy steps
Step 1: Shake the primer can for at least 5 minutes so that it is mixed well. Paint the item with the primer. This will ensure an impeccable result.
Step 2: Shake the spray paint but do not overmix it. The right consistency is crucial to get the best results. Use the spay first on a newspaper to check its consistency.
Step 3: Hold the spray at least 8 inches away from the object.
Step 4: The speed of moving the can must be 1 foot per second.
Step 5: In an easy motion, cover the object from left to right with the spray paint.
Step 6: Make sure no gaps are left by overlapping the motion.
Step 7: Make sure you do not point the nozzle at just one point.
Step 8: Apply multiple thin layers of paint.
Step 9: Ensure the first coat is completely dried before applying the next coat. It may take 24 hours for each coat to dry.
Dos and don’ts
- Avoid painting in direct sunlight and on windy or humid days.
- A warm and sunny day is perfect for a spray painting job when the humidity level is below 65%.
- Make sure the surrounding areas are well protected before starting the paint job.
- Read the instruction manual carefully before starting the paint job. This is important to avoid any
- Spray painting in an enclosed area can cause mild to severe breathing impact. Leave the doors and windows open at the time of the job.
- In case of body contact, remove the paint immediately.
- The paint fumes may make you feel dizzy. Take breaks and breathe in some fresh air.
FAQs
How to remove spray paint?
White spirit can remove paint from your tools and skin.
Are spray paint fumes harmful?
Spray paints have Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which may have short-term and long-term impacts on your health.
What are the ingredients of spray paints?
A regular spray paint would have: Acetone Liquefied Petroleum Gas Xylene n-Butyl Acetate Methyl Ethyl Ketone Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Ethylbenzene Magnesium Silicate Carbon Black
What are the side effects of spray paint?
If exposed to spray paint fumes, you may suffer short-term side effects like eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, loss of coordination, nausea and dizziness. Long-term side effects may include damage to the liver, kidneys and the central nervous system.
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