Spray Finishing – Tips for Getting Started
Protect Your Lungs
A proper respirator is a must. Get one that will protect you from organic and paint vapours. (Photo by 3MTM TEKK ProtectionTM Brand.)
Familiarize Yourself
Understand what the knobs and adjustments do while you’re practicing on scrap material so that, when the time comes, you’ll be able to adapt to the situation and apply an appropriate coat. Though there’s generally not much to adjust, each gun is slightly different.
A Good Foot to Stand On
Attach a lazy Susan bearing to the underside of a piece of scrap material and you have a great surface for spraying smaller parts. I also use some Bench Cookie Cones to help keep the work-piece away from any overspray on the turntable.
Follow Orders
Make sure to follow all the manufacturers’ recommendations regarding their products. Both spray equipment and finishing materials will only work well if you use them appropriately. A cup to check a material’s viscosity is a good place to start.
Before you spray
As you spray
Rob is a studio furniture maker and the editor at Canadian Woodworking & Home Improvement.