5 of the best spray painting techniques for your car
Achieving a great finish when you’re spray painting a car can make the difference between a class act and a complete embarrassment. Take the time to set up the job right and you’ll save time and money, plus you’ll achieve that professional finish you’re looking for.
Preparation, preparation, preparation
If you want a top-quality result, you have to put in the work in at the preparation stage. Use 80 to 300 grade sandpapers to remove any scratches, and then work on your wet sanding methods with 1000 grade sandpaper. The more time you work on thoroughly prepping, the better the end result will be. Apply a primer, then wait 24 hours for it to dry before wet sanding with 1000 – 1200 grade sandpaper.
Removing vs Masking
Remove the part that needs painted and spray it separately if possible, especially if it’s a single door or bumper. Otherwise, you run the risk of overspraying other parts of the car body. If you can’t remove the individual panel, mask it off with professional, painter’s grade masking tape, but try a piece first on a hidden piece of bodywork to make sure it comes off without damaging the paintwork.
Spray more coats
Inexperienced sprayers typically make the mistake of opting for one thick spray instead of a few normal coats. This is the quickest way to get runs and uneven paint buildup that makes the job look messy and amateur. Instead, you’ll need to add several thin coats applied side to side (not up and down). Stand around a foot away from the vehicle and use slow, rhythmic strokes. If you miss a patch, don’t panic; just get it on the next coat.
Take it slow
While you’re waiting between each coat, check the rest of the car. Do you need Cambridge diamond cutting for alloy wheels? Use a company like Cambridge diamond cutting alloy wheels specialist Ace Finish to make the rest of the car look as great as the paint finish. You’ll need to wait at least 20 minutes before each coat.
Tidy up your mistakes
Use sandpaper to smooth out any paint buildup and runs before you spray the topcoat. Leave it to dry absolutely thoroughly; 48 hours should be sufficient. Then wax it and go!
