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Home » How-To » How To Spray Paint: A Step-By-Step Guide

How To Spray Paint: A Step-By-Step Guide

Spray paint first timer? If you’ve never used spray paint before, don’t worry, it’s easier than you think.

Good preparation will make the task even simpler. First, ensure you have enough paint to do the job. Check individual cans for approximate coverage rates. Secondly, find a well-ventilated workspace and cover the surrounding area to protect from spray mist.

When you’re ready,  just watch our how-to video and follow these simple instructions and you’ll be up and running in no time.

What you will need

Rust-Oleum Spray Paint

Newspaper / dust sheets

Masking tape

Steps

  1. Before you begin, make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area. After reading the instructions then begin shaking the can for the stated amount of time. For most products it is recommended you begin counting the time once the can makes a rattling sound.

  2. Put some old newspaper down and practice your spraying technique. Note that if you go too fast or leave the can pointing at one spot too long, you’ll get uneven gloss. Practice spraying in slightly overlapping stripes.

  3. Carefully prepare the object ensuring it is clean and dry. Prime where necessary. Test the paint on an inconspicuous area of the object to be painted to ensure colour compatibility. If you’re unsure whether or not you need to prime the object, allow the painted test area to dry fully and check the adhesion. Prime with Rust-Oleum Surface Primer (or Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer where appropriate). If using Rust-Oleum Universal there is no need to use a primer.

  4. Carefully mask any areas of the object not to be painted. Apply the paint at the recommended spraying distance, alternating between moving the can from left to right and up and down.

  5. Pause to shake the can at regular intervals during painting. Be sure to slightly overlap on each stroke to prevent striping. Apply several thin coats and allow to dry for the stated time before recoating.

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