Paint Spraying Tips & Techniques

  • Humidity and Weather Conditions:
    • Avoid painting in wet or humid conditions to prevent poor finish quality. If the clearcoat dries with a whitish haze or streaks, it indicates that the humidity is too high for painting.
  • Temperature Considerations:
    • Ensure the ambient temperature is at least 70°F but not exceeding 80°F. Temperatures over 80°F can cause the paint to dry too quickly, potentially before it reaches the surface, resulting in a rough texture.
  • Direct Sunlight:
    • Do not spray paint in direct sunlight as it can accelerate drying times excessively, affecting the paint’s finish.
  • Preparation:
  • Spraying the Basecoat:
    • Apply even, overlapping coats, ensuring the painted area is evenly wet without dry spots.
    • Let the first basecoat dry for about 20 minutes before applying the second coat.
    • Allow the basecoat to dry overnight.
  • Sanding and Final Coat:
    • Wet sand the area using 1000 grit wet and dry sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections or dust.
    • Apply a final coat of paint over the area but do not sand this coat.
    • Let the final paint coat dry thoroughly before applying clearcoat, usually overnight. In temperatures below 70°F drying may take longer.
  • Clearcoat Application:
    • Ensure the basecoat is dry to the touch before applying the clearcoat.
    • Shake the clearcoat can for two minutes before use (note: this can does not contain a metal mixing ball).
    • You would typically spray the clearcoat farther out than the paint to a panel line on your vehicle. Again, you don’t want to spray the clearcoat in the middle of a panel without going out to the edges as you will leave a noticeable clearcoat line. Use blender for better results.
    • Apply the clearcoat evenly over the base paint. Avoid spraying in direct sunlight or on parts that have been heated by the sun to prevent a dull finish.
    • Allow the clearcoat to dry thoroughly. Overnight drying is typically sufficient, but in temperatures below 70°F, it may take longer.
    • If imperfections are present, wet sand with 1000 grit sandpaper, then apply a final coat of clearcoat.
    • Let the final clearcoat layer dry for at least three days.
    • Use our automotive rubbing compound (cutting creme) to polish the area and enhance the shine.
    • Adjusting Paint Shade with Clearcoat Application
      • Technique to Lighten Paint:
        • Hold the spray can further from the surface during application to subtly lighten the paint shade.
      • Technique to Darken Paint:
        • Hold the spray can closer to the surface to darken the paint shade.
      • Testing and Practice:
        • Practice these techniques off the vehicle to master the effect and gauge its impact on your specific paint color.
      • Catalyzed Clearcoat Considerations:
        • Be aware that catalyzed clearcoat dries quickly due to the catalyst, especially under warmer conditions.
        • Always review and follow the instructions on the can prior to use for optimal results and safety. Be sure and wear an approved NIOSH respirator. This stuff is very toxic.
  • Paint Spraying—Paint to an Edge:
    • After painting the repaired area, feather the paint out slowly on either side to blend with the existing paint seamlessly.
    • Professional shops often paint to a boundary such as the edge of a door or a panel line to avoid leaving a visible paint line.
  • Notes on Spraying Metallic Paints:
    • For best results, blend metallic paints into the surrounding areas.
    • Avoid applying too much paint or reducing the time between coats, as this can make the metallic flake uneven.
    • Spray the final coat of metallic paint from a farther distance to ensure even distribution of metallic flakes. Practice off the vehicle to find the optimal distance.
  • Watch for Drips:
    • If a drip occurs during spraying, do not attempt to wipe it off. Allow it to dry, then sand it out and reapply the paint.
    • Consider wrapping the spray can with a rag to catch any unforeseen drips and regularly check the nozzle and can for excess paint build-up.