Rattle can lacquer techniques

[Rampage]

I've found that IPA will damage lacquer? Even on items that have been painted months ago.

 

[itscervo]

I've found that IPA will damage lacquer? Even on items that have been painted months ago.

The rule for that is to try it on an inconspicuous area first, personally l have never experienced lacquer damage from the use of it.

 

[Iwasgoodonce]

I've found that IPA will damage lacquer? Even on items that have been painted months ago.

Another reason not to drink and ride?

 

[FMJ]

There is a very fine line between not enough and runs.

+1. You have to get enough on so the paint flows into itself. Too much (runs) can be as little as one more pass. Knowing how much is an acquired skill. Some people have a feel for it, some (read: most) don't.

Using a handheld light you can shine it at the surface and easily see if you need more. Spray a bit more on, leave it a few minutes and check again.

I have fluorescent fixtures in the walls of my garage (like you see in a pro paint booth). They give nice even light with no shadows. PITA to move/cover everything before painting anything, but it makes it so much easier once you do.

Use a decent lacquer from a car paint supplier, not Halfords.

I have several guns/air brushes for large jobs and mix the paint with the appropriate hardeners just before painting. For a small job it's easier to have my paint guy pre-mix a batch and put it in a rattle can for me. It's not cheap (about $22 for a large can), but I get a superior finish, and the exact colour I want that way.

If used in cold / damp weather it can turn milky.

Yup. If it's below 60 deg. I heat the garage prior to starting. A combination of electric heaters and a propane torpedo strips the moisture out of the air (turn both off before starting or BOOM!).

*EDIT*

Oh yeah, and I use one of these. I'd highly recommend one if you're painting anything more than a stem.

 

[biglev]

the type of clear coat you use can also make it easier. this is 2k in can. it sets chemically and seem little affect by humidity or my poor capabilities as a sprayer. its seems to make a very nice finish every time and goes of very hard so its quick to cut back. worth a go, but its not cheap:
http://www.specialistpaints.com/product ... -coat-canz

 

[xerxes]

Oh yeah, and I use one of these. I'd highly recommend one if you're painting anything more than a stem.

Or doing a spot of cooking.

 

[The History Man]

Shpuld I have worn a mask in there? Have come down again now.

 

[M-Power]

^^^ smart thinking and a great use for an old rent. I'm a fan of good prep work, warm the item with a heat gun and use BMW paint building up layers carefully. Comes up a treat.