How to Paint Lattice

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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There are a number of different ways to use lattice in and around your home. Lattice can be bought in unfinished wood or expensive colored vinyl. If you have a special color or don't want to spend money on the colored vinyl, you can paint wood lattice. Learn how to paint lattice by following these steps.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Find a large, open area to paint the lattice. Make sure the area is well-ventilated. If you don't want grass or other surfaces getting painted, lay a large sheet of plastic over the area before laying the lattice down. Prop the lattice up at an angle to reach every part evenly. Set up two sawhorses to make a table if you want the lattice off the ground.

Step2

Sand the lattice lightly by hand with sandpaper. This smooths any rough edges or splinters that may snag on something. Some lattice may have many splinters hanging off the rough-cut edges.

Step3

Use a can of spray primer or primer and a brush to apply one coat of primer to the lattice. Paint soaks into the lattice and may alter the color unless you use a layer of primer first. Spraying the lattice is much faster and more efficient but can be done effectively with a brush.

Step4

Paint the lattice your color of choice after the primer has dried completely. Latex paint lasts much longer and can be applied smoothly through a paint sprayer or with a brush. Using a can of spray paint is O.K. but won't last as long or look as good as latex paint.

Step5

Allow the lattice to dry completely and then turn it over to paint the other side. Once the paint is dry on both sides, install the lattice according to your project needs.