Paint spraying technique: The most important things to know for optimal coating results

Preparing the Spray Material

Paints are usually sold in a spreadable, undiluted state. The paint usually needs to be diluted for use with the spray gun. To thin the material you are using, try Paint Easy™ Latex Paint Conditioner for latex paints. It thins the paint by adding a specially formulated material for a finer spray. Water will also work but it will dilute the material.

For oil-based materials, use the thinning agent recommended on the material container. To achieve the correct dilution you have to use the viscosity testcup supplied with the unit (viscosity = consistency of the paint). Dip the viscosity test cup completely into the spray material. Hold the test cup up and measure the time (in seconds) until the liquid empties out.

Compare the measured “run-out” time with the viscosity table detailed below. If the actual run-out time is greater than the recommended run-out time, additional thinning of the spray material will be required.



How to spray

Always practice spraying on a piece of scrap wood or cardboard to test your spray pattern. Use the coverage rate recommended by the material manufacturer on the container.

A bad spray pattern will concentrate the paint in the center of the spray and go on blotchy. A good spray pattern has an even amount of material throughout the pattern in a fine spray and will go on smoothly.



Once you have achieved a good spray pattern on your test piece of wood or cardboard, it is time to begin spraying your work. Make sure that the surfaces to be covered are clean, dry and free of dust or fat. The key to a good job is an even coating over the entire surface. This is done by using even strokes. Always begin spraying outside of the spray area to avoid interruptions inside the spraying area. Keep your arm moving at a constant speed and keep the sprayer at a constant distance from the surface. The best spraying distance is10 to 12 inches between the spray tip and the surface. The distance from the nozzle to the object to be sprayed depends on the delivery rate. With a low delivery rate it is possible to go very close to the object and reduce further the amount of spray mist.



The spray gun should be worked as evenly as possible during the spray operation. Accelerating or slowing down during the spray operation can cause an uneven spray pattern, spattering or dripping. Keep the sprayer perpendicular to the surface, otherwise one end of the pattern will be thicker than the other. Keep the sprayer at right angles to the surface. This means moving your entire arm back and forth rather than just flexing your wrist. To achieve optimal spray results, spray back and forth over the surface.



Always hold the spray gun in a horizontal position. If you need to spray upwards (ie. for ceilings) or downwards (ie. for an unhinged door laid on a table) use the flexible nozzle extension accessory.

When using solvent-based paints make sure that there is good air circulation. Use respiration protection if necessary. Prior to making your purchase you might also want to think about suitable waste management.

Handy Hints

• Preparation of the surface to be sprayed is vital to getting the best finish.
• For perfect coverage, the combination of speed of application and overlap of spray is essential.
• Approach difficult or hard to reach areas first. This includes corners and angles.
• Always keep the spray gun clean when not in use. Keep the gun lubricated with a cleaning lubricant or light machine oil in and aroundt he working parts.