How to Paint With Rattle Cans
- 1). Choose your paint. Most over the counter rattle-can paint is limited to the colors provided, however there are some parts and paint stores that create custom colors for rattle cans.
- 2). Set up your painting area. All spray-paint products should be used in open or well ventilated areas. Place drop cloths over all surfaces and on the floor around the area where you will paint. If the item you are painting is small, a drop cloth over the floor and table you are working on will suffice.
- 3). Place painters' tape over areas that will not be painted. If a large area of the item is not going to be painted, place plastic sheeting over the area.
- 4). Shake the can of primer for at least two minutes and hold the can two to three inches away from the surface. Apply an even coat of primer to the surface and let the primer dry. Most spray primers will dry within an hour.
- 5). Shake the paint can for the allotted time on the instructions. This is normally one to two minutes. Make sure to shake the can for the entire time frame. Turn the can upside down and spray a few times to clear the nozzle.
- 6). Point the nozzle of the rattle can away from you and position it about 12 to 18 inches from the surface. Make smooth light passes over the item from top to bottom. When the surface looks wet, stop spraying. Let the paint dry for an hour.
- 7). Apply a second coat in the same manner as the first coat. Once the item is painted let the paint set. When the paint no longer smells it is properly set.
- 8). Turn the can upside down and spray the nozzle to clear any paint left in the nozzle and reduce the chance of a clog.
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