Dec 20, 2019 06:05 AM EST By Staff Reporter, UniversityHerald Reporter

Spray paint is a useful way to add a touch of color to almost any school project. There is a large variety of colors to choose from and it can be purchased at your local hardware store. Spray paint may seem like a direct procedure but the truth is the result can be amazing if you know the proper application.

Students enjoy spray paint for a variety of reasons. First, it coats flawlessly perfect. Second, it dries almost immediately and lastly is capable of creating some pretty cool effects. Apart from many spray paint crafts that they can do, college students taking up architectural designs or art programs will this item very useful to show their creativity.

Basic Spray Paint Techniques

First, clean the surface to be painted, free of dust, rust, and debris. Make sure that the area is smooth because bumps or imperfections will show through the paint. You can use sandpaper or steel wool to smoothen the surface and then use an absorbent cloth to remove any remaining dust.

Choose the color of spray paint that is room temperature and shake it for about 3 to 4 minutes to mix the paint thoroughly. Don't shake too much as it may cause bumps when applied, shake it little by little occasionally as well.

Press down on the tip with the can about 10 to 12 inches away from the surface, directed to one side, then, in one fluid motion, stroke the paint horizontally across the surface and discharge the tip when you reach the other side. When applying the paint, you should use the whole arm to move the can, not just the wrist, and make sure to start the spray before reaching the surface and release it after passing it.  

In case of a larger surface, multiple passes are required, overlap your passes slightly. It is better to allow the paint to dry in between rather than one heavy coat. Different paints dry at different rates, so you should mind the instructions on the back of the can for drying times. Patiently apply multiple light layers of paint to ensure it will be visually smooth and professionally made.

After painting, turn the can upside-down and press the tip until the spray becomes clear. This technique will clear the tip and prevent paint from drying and clogging inside it.

Painting Small Objects

Using a paint booth is a must if you are painting small objects. To avoid a messy workplace, you can set up a makeshift paint booth using a card box on its side. Setting the object on a turntable is a great way to cover all angles.

Use a Spray Gun

If you have a large painting project and have the available compressor, it is advisable that you buy a spray gun. Instead of using compressed gas in a can, a spray gun uses air delivered from your compressor to pull paint from a paint basin and blow it through a nozzle, crafting a fine spray.

Spray painting is very useful in many ways. It is easy to learn and a very effective and efficient choice at the same time. You can use it either on your personal project or professional projects. So what are you waiting for? Level up your painting ideas with these amazing spray paint techniques.

ALSO READ: How to Properly Repaint a Damaged Dorm Room

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