How to Apply Enamel Paint

Enamel paint can be oil-, alkyd- or water-based. It is a thicker paint that can be low-luster, semigloss and high-gloss. It is important to prepare and clean the surface well before painting the area with primer. You can use paint brushes, rollers or a sprayer to paint with enamel. Enamel can be used on walls, furniture and hand-crafted items.

Things You'll Need

• Paintbrushes with nylon or synthetic bristles Roller Paint tray

Instructions

Paintbrush method

1. Dip the end of a small brush into the paint can. Wipe off excess paint on the rim of the can to be sure it drips back into the container.

2. Paint the outer edges of the painting project with the small brush. To paint the outer edges of a wall, or outline a window, for example, is called "cutting in."

3. Dip the largest brush you can use for the project in the paint. Wipe excess back into container. Use long vertical strokes, controlling the brush with your wrist, to paint a thin coat of the enamel over the project surface.

4. Paint the entire project with at least two coats of enamel. Thin paint layers make a smoother, more professional-looking surface.

Paint Rollers

1. Pour paint into the well of the tray at a depth nearly equal to the height of the roller.

2. Roll the roller into the paint and draw it back up, removing as much excess as possible.

3. Place the roller against the surface and start at the highest point of the wall or project. Pull down in a smooth sweep, filling in the space with paint.

4. Move the roller back up, at an angle and to your right, and smooth out the paint. Roll down again and back up as though you were forming a W shape.

5. Continue to paint and fill in the wall or project with smooth, sweeping strokes. Refill the roller as needed, remembering to wipe away the excess paint each time.

Spray

1. Add 1/2 pint of water per gallon of liquid enamel paint and mix well. (Use self-contained spray paint can according to directions.)

2. Use an airless sprayer with a minimum of 2,000 psi with a 60 mesh filter.

3. Add a .015 to .017 tip to the sprayer.

4. Proceed to the spray paint according to the manufacturers directions. Always wear a mask.

5. Spray a second, even coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean all supplies immediately after use before the paint dries to prevent loss of tools.

Resources

• Painting Inside the Home