How to Airbrush Steel Panels
Steel panels are used for their strength and durability. They are found in both architectural and residential settings. While the look of steel is incorporated into many designs, there are times when this material needs to be painted over. Prior to advances in paint technology, it was difficult to find a paint that adhered to metal. However, even with these advances it can still be difficult to paint steel panels if the proper techniques are not applied. Use a few professional techniques to airbrush steel panels, ensuring a durable finish.
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Things You'll Need
- Sandpaper
- Rags
- Spray primer
- Electric palm sander
- Painter's masking tape
- Steel wool
- Airbrush
- Respirator
Instructions
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1
Run a sander with 400-grit wet/dry sandpaper in a circular motion across the steel to prepare the surface. When the metal is no longer dull in appearance, stop sanding. Wipe any debris off with a clean rag.
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2
Apply painter's masking tape to the boundaries around the area being painted. Firmly press down on the tape to seal it to the metal surface. Use 1-inch wide tape to create a large border. Add newspaper to the area around the panel to avoid over-spray, adhering it in place with the tape.
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3
Apply a coating of spray automotive primer designed for metal, lightly spraying the surface. Hold the can six inches above the surface being primed. Move the can's nozzle left to right in quick passes. Evenly cover the surface.
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4
Rub fine steel wool across the primed surface in a circular motion to smooth the surface. The primer coat contains uneven spots that must be smoothed out prior to airbrushing the surface. Run a finger across the surface after applying the steel wool. When the surface is smooth to the touch, wipe down the surface with a clean rag to remove any debris.
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5
Spray the panel's surface with the airbrush head for a wide spray pattern. Use quick left to right passes to cover the panel with a fine layer of paint. Apply at least four coats of paint, allowing at least six hours drying time between coats.
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Tips & Warnings
An airbrush requires a specific paint viscosity to keep the paint from clogging the spray head. Refer to the airbrush user's manual for viscosity rates. Viscosity refers to the paint's resistance to flow. Use a thinner designed for use with the type of paint being used.
Always work in a well ventilated place and wear a respirator.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
