Spray paint is a versatile craft tool even when using the most basic techniques. Add permanent coloring to most anything with a few sprays in a fraction of the time it takes to paint by hand with a brush. Spray paint can add surprising and artistic results to common craft projects.
Preparation
Use spray paint in well-ventilated, open areas and avoid humid conditions to achieve the best results. Prepare the area with necessary drop cloths. Newspaper and old bed sheets work great.
If you are working with wood, sand the surface of the item with a fine grain sandpaper. Wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove excess dust. When preparing to paint metal, remove loose rust with a wire brush. Sand the hard-to-reach areas. Remove any oil with a degreaser. Wipe down the item with a dry cloth to ensure you will be painting on a clean, dry surface. If you will be painting on plastic, sand the entire surface with a fine grain sandpaper. This will allow the paint to stick to the object. Wipe it clean with a dry cloth.
Depending upon what you are painting, you may need to prime the item first. Primer is a base coat of paint in a neutral color, usually gray or white, that prepares a surface for painting. Primer also makes it easier to cover objects that are a different, brighter color with fewer coats.
Basic Technique
Refer to any special instructions provided on the paint can. A good rule of thumb is to shake the can for two minutes after the mixing ball begins to rattle. Shake the can for ten seconds for each minute of use. Spray a test spray on a scrap to make sure the paint is mixed thoroughly---preferably a hidden piece of your project or a scrap piece of the same material as your project. This will also test the paint's compatibility with your item.
You are now ready to begin painting. Start by holding the paint can 10 to 12 inches from the object. Start painting about 6 inches from the edge of the item. Do not spray one continuous stream. Make even passes left to right and then right to left releasing the nozzle after each pass and pressing it again as you start another. Overlap each pass by a 1/2 inch.
Continue painting until the entire object has one complete coat of paint. Apply the paint in thin coats to prevent any running. Refer to the instructions on the paint can for drying times. Ensure you allow for the entire recommended drying time before adding more coats as needed. This technique will coat your item with even color.
Quick Tips
If you are painting three dimensional objects such as: candleholders, vases or baskets, place them on a turntable for even coating.
To paint foam balls or blocks, insert a dowel or other thin object and turn the item in your fingers as you paint it.
If you dislike wearing gloves or are allergic to them, use hand cream or grease to make paint easier to remove when you are done.
Save plastic grocery bags to use for masking off areas you want to protect from your paint. Secure the bags with tape.
Always spray paint outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
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