Spraying Krylon paint effectively involves proper preparation, technique, and aftercare to achieve a smooth, durable finish on various surfaces.
Krylon spray paint offers a convenient way to refresh, restore, or create, but success hinges on understanding the process from start to finish. Following these steps will help you achieve professional-looking results.
1. Prepare Your Workspace and Surface
Thorough preparation is the foundation for any successful spray painting project.
Surface Preparation
- Clean: Ensure the surface is free of dirt, dust, grease, and rust. Use a degreaser or mild soap and water, then rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
- Sand: Lightly sand glossy surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 220-grit) to create a dull finish. This provides "tooth" for the paint to adhere better. Wipe away any sanding dust.
- Prime: For best adhesion and color vibrancy, especially on bare wood, metal, plastic, or previously painted surfaces, apply a suitable Krylon primer. Follow the primer's specific drying instructions.
- Mask: Use painter's tape and plastic sheeting or newspaper to protect areas you don't want painted.
Workspace Preparation
- Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors or in an open garage, to disperse fumes.
- Protection: Lay down drop cloths, old newspapers, or cardboard to protect surrounding areas from overspray.
- Safety Gear: Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and a respirator mask.
2. Shake the Can Properly
Before and during painting, adequate shaking ensures the paint's pigments and solvents are well-mixed for consistent color and flow.
- Shake vigorously: Hold the can upside down and shake it for at least one minute after you hear the mixing ball rattle. This ensures the paint is thoroughly blended.
- Re-shake often: Shake the can for a few seconds periodically throughout your project, especially if you pause for more than a minute.
3. Test the Spray Pattern
Always test the spray on a scrap piece of material (cardboard works well) before applying it to your actual project.
- Check Consistency: This allows you to check for consistent spray pattern and color, ensuring the nozzle isn't clogged and the paint is flowing smoothly.
- Practice Stroke: Practice your spray stroke on the scrap piece to get a feel for the distance and speed.
4. Apply the Paint with Correct Technique
Proper technique is crucial for a smooth, even finish free of drips and runs.
- Distance: Hold the can 8-12 inches from the surface. Holding it too close can cause drips, while too far can result in a dusty, uneven texture (dry spray).
- Motion: Use steady, even strokes. Begin spraying off the object, move across the surface in a continuous, sweeping motion, and release the nozzle off the object. This ensures even coverage from edge to edge.
- Thin Coats: Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat. Thin coats prevent drips and allow for better adhesion and drying.
- Overlap: Overlap each spray stroke by about one-third for uniform coverage.
- Corners and Edges: Angle the can to reach all areas, ensuring thorough coverage on corners and edges.
- Drying Time: Allow appropriate drying time between coats as indicated on the Krylon can. Applying a second coat too soon can cause wrinkling or bubbling.
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful application, issues can arise.
- Clogged Nozzle: If your nozzle gets clogged, turn the can upside down and spray for a few seconds to clear the paint from the valve.
- Drips and Runs: These occur from applying too much paint in one area or holding the can too close. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly, lightly sand the affected area, and reapply a thin coat.
- Uneven Texture: Usually caused by spraying too far from the surface or insufficient shaking. Ensure proper distance and consistent shaking.
6. Finishing and Cleanup
Proper finishing and cleanup ensure your project lasts and your tools are ready for next time.
- Clear Coat (Optional): For added durability and protection, especially on high-traffic items, consider applying a Krylon clear coat after the color coats have fully dried.
- Full Curing: While paint may be "dry to touch" quickly, it takes longer to fully cure and achieve maximum hardness. Refer to the can for full cure times before handling or exposing the object to heavy use.
- Cleanup and Storage: After each use, clear the nozzle to prevent clogging for future projects. Turn the can upside down and spray for a few seconds until only clear propellant comes out. Wipe any paint off the nozzle with a rag and store the can in a cool, dry place.
By following these guidelines, you can achieve beautiful and lasting results with Krylon spray paint on your projects.
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Shake well (1 min+ after rattle) | Spray too close or too far |
| Apply multiple thin coats | Apply one thick coat (causes drips) |
| Work in a well-ventilated area | Paint in an enclosed, unventilated space |
| Use smooth, sweeping motions | Stop and start sprays mid-object |
| Test on scrap material | Spray directly onto your project without testing |
| Clear nozzle after use (upside down spray) | Store cans with clogged nozzles |
