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Spray Paint Basics
Essential Tools and Materials
Here's everything you'll need to get it right the first time.
  • Newspaper
  • Spray paint

 
Our step-by-step guide illustrates how to get the perfect finish fast. This is a fail safe method on how to get the perfect finish every time.
 
 
Step-by-step Guide
 

1. Read: Always read the directions first.

2. Shake: Shake the can well to ensure that the pigment is evenly dispersed in the can. You will hear the rattle of the mixing ball.

3. Practice: Practice spraying on newspaper, keeping the can moving.

4. Prep: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, sanded or primed as necessary.

5. Test: If you are unsure whether the paint is compatible with the material, test first on an inconspicuous area.

6. Mask: Mask areas that you don’t want to be painted.

7. Verify: Check the instructions for spraying distance—this is very important and varies among products.

8. Apply: Spray paint quickly and evenly in several directions moving the can from side to side and up and down.

9. Shake: Shake the can for 10 seconds at regular intervals during spraying. See product can for recommendations.

10. Spray: In most cases spray several thin coats. There are exceptions to this rule—always read the directions first.

11. Dry time: Leave to dry for the recommended time.


 
 
 
 
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Computer screens and printers vary in how colors are displayed. Colors which display on the screen and printed colors may not match the paint's actual color.