How to Paint a Car With Automobile Paint

Painting your car is one way to change the look instantly.

If your car's paint is damaged, or you are just ready for a change in paint color, painting your car with auto paint is a relatively easy task. In order to do it properly so that it will last, the car will need to be primed and painted with auto paint. Other types of paint risk chipping and peeling because they are not made to last in the elements while on hot metal. Starting with the proper auto primer and paint will ensure that you get a professional-looking job.

Things You'll Need

• Sandpaper
• Auto paint
• Primer
• Spray gun
• Body filler
• Spatula
• Newspaper
• Masking tape or painters tape

Instructions

1. Sand your car to remove rust, debris and exterior paint that is peeling or flaking. Sanding your car will also help the new primer and paint to adhere. If there are any cracks in the paint, fill with body filler and sand down to make the surface even with the rest of the car.

2. Tape off any areas of the car that you do not want to paint. Cover the areas with newspaper before taping off to ensure that no paint will get onto those areas. Cover the wheels with newspaper and tape off as well to avoid paint getting on the tires.

3. Pour your primer into the spray gun and start by spraying a sheet of paper. This will help any clogs or bubbles get out of the gun before starting to spray your car. Spray your primer onto your car in fast, even, long strokes. Short bursts of spray will cause your primer to drip. You may need to use several coats of primer to get even coverage. Allow the car time to dry in between each layer of primer.

4. Clean your spray paint gun in preparation for the auto paint.

5. Pour your auto paint into the spray gun. Move in broad strokes at a medium pace. Each coat should take a couple of passes from the spray gun. Let each layer dry before adding on another layer. This will help to make sure that you have the color you like before you add additional paint that could make it darker.

References

• Purple Sage Trading Post: Painting/Bodyworking Tips