You no longer need to hire a professional painter to do car painting jobs. Painting vehicles has become so easy and convenient that anyone, from amateurs to DIYers, can paint with spray paint. You only need to learn some tips and tricks to get the desired finish.
So, if you are here to learn how to get a glossy finish with spray paint, you are at the right place. This article is just for you. I will discuss the detailed painting process and provide a step-by-step guide to getting a glossy finish.
It doesn’t matter whether you are a beginner or an occasional painter; these steps will help you do the job easily and effectively! Without any further ado, let’s get started!
How to Get A Glossy Finish with Spray Paint
The finish of a painted item depends greatly on the paint you use and the process. Therefore, it’s extremely important to know how to paint versatile materials, from wood to metal, properly. I am going to explain the most authentic car painting process step by step in detail.
Things you will need:
Though the glossy finish is the last stage of painting, I will state things you will need from start to finish of a complete painting job.
First of all, you need to pick the right paint for the item you are going to color. There are versatile types of paint that not only vary depending on the material but also give a matte to a glossy finish. Since you want to get a glossy finish on a car, choose the one that promises to give a glossy finish. It would be written on the can.
Besides, you will need a power sander, sanding pads, sprayer, grit sandpaper, cleaning compound, masking tape, scrap paper or newspaper, Primer, enamel, thinner, safety goggles, gloves, buffer, buffing pads, rubbing compound, rag cloth, etc.
Step 1: Choose a suitable location
First, you need to choose a location that will allow you to work comfortably. The area must have proper ventilation, electric connections, and less dust.
Step 2: Remove dust and debris
To ensure accuracy in your painting job, you need to make sure the area is clean and tidy. Otherwise, it will catch debris, which will impact the finished painted look.
Step 3: Sanding
Sanding is the key to getting a glossy finish with spray paint. To do the job, you will need sanding paper and a sander. Attach the sandpaper to the sander and begin sanding in a circular motion. Make sure the surface is free of debris and dust before sanding. The key to proper sanding is that it must be brought down to the bare metal.
Start easy and be patient until the entire vehicle is sanded. The purpose is to get a uniform sanded surface. Clean the car with a rag cloth and check if the sanding is complete.
Step 4: Tape the surfaces
At this point, you need to use masking tape to block the places where you don’t want to apply it. This includes areas like windows, door handles, grills, glass, and window trim.
Step 5: Prime before painting
Priming the piece is crucial before applying it. You can use corrosion-resistant primer or self-etching to get a smooth and uneven surface. This helps prepare the surface and gives it a glossy finish later on. After application, let the primer cure for enough time.
Then, sand the car again. But this time, you must not reveal the bare metal, so sand carefully. After that, wipe the car with a clean rag using a bit of thinner.
Step 6: Do the job with the right spray gun
After priming, paint the car. The key to applying spray paint is to use a high-quality gun. It would help if you chose it according to the surface. Since you are painting a car for the first time, you must get the best automotive paint gun for beginners.
Here, you must get a high-quality gun as well as paint in order to get proper coverage and durability of the color. Keep the gun about 6 inches away from the car. Also, ensure the color doesn’t fade away with thorough cleaning.
Step 7: Let the paint dry
Once the painting is complete, you need to allow the freshly painted object to dry properly. To do this, you must choose a well-ventilated area. Since it is sticky, it is prone to catching debris and dust easily. Hence, keeping it inside in an open space is better so it doesn’t touch other elements.
Step 8: Touch up if needed
When it is completely dry, examine the piece thoroughly. You may need to touch up a few spots to boost color. Spray paint will ensure a seamless finish. But before you apply the last coat, sand again and wipe with a clean rag.
Step 9: Buffing
After sanding, it’s time to buff the piece. Attach foam to the buffer and apply a few drops of rubbing element. Now, turn on the buffer and evenly buff the vehicle. Keep buffing until the rubbing compound is gone. Then, wipe the area with a clean rag.
Step 10: Adding rubbing compound
After completing the buffing process, remove the compounded foam. Get another clean foam and add a few drops of polish. You can also add polish to the car. Now, use the foam and polish the surface until the compound is completely gone. Slowly, you will notice the gloss has returned.
And voila! You will see the desired gloss you were expecting. Don’t worry! The repetitive process of sanding and polishing does not affect the original color.
Final Verdict
Here are the simple steps for getting a glossy finish with spray paint. It may seem lengthy, but it’s completely doable by anyone. So, it doesn’t matter whether you are an amateur or a DIYer; you can always get a glossy finish like a professional if you have the right spray gun.
In a nutshell, the process of achieving a glossy finish involves sanding, buffing, and polishing. A few drops of polishing can actually boost the shine of any vehicle. This simple layer will not only give a professional finish but also protect against scratches and dust.