Basic Spray Painting Tips

Simple spray painting techniques can help achieve a high quality spray painted finish. Work on incorporating these techniques to ensure a quality result is achieved each time you use your spray gun.

Always strain the paint prior to spray painting. Even brand-new cans of paint can contain particles which may blemish the final spray painted finish.

Always test the spray gun with water or thinners before attempting to spray paint to ensure the spray gun is functioning correctly.

Ensure the spray gun is travelling before squeezing the spray gun trigger. This technique will ensure heavy build ups of paint are avoided that can occur through squeezing the trigger while the gun is stationary resulting in too much paint being sprayed in one spot.

Work on maintaining a consistent even distance between the surface being spray painted and the nozzle of the gun while maintaining a constant even speed of movement. This will help achieve even paint film build across the entire surface.

Avoid moving or swinging the spray gun in an arc and endeavour to maintain the angle of the spray gun at right angles to the surface being spray painted. If you are spray painting a large surface consider pacing in the direction you are spraying to assist in maintaining 90° to the surface.

Spraying multiple light coats of paint will usually help DIY spray painters achieve a better result although multiple light coats of paint will not work with a very fast drying paints such as acrylic lacquers.

Spray edges and corners first prior to spraying broad areas of any surface as this will assist in achieving a more even appearing final result.

Always ensure quality spray paint equipment is used and monitor wear items such as airless spray tips, air spray gun fluid nozzles, fluid needles and air cap's for either wear or damage which can be detrimental to the final spray painted surface final result.

  • Air Cap
  • Fluid Nozzle
  • Spray Painting
  • Trigger