How to Paint a Round Object

Be careful not to smudge the wet paint of a round object.

Painting a round object will require you to paint each side in shifts, so you don't rest the sphere on its wet coat. Painting time, therefore, will depend on what the round object is made of, the type of paint you use, and how many coats the object will need to prevent paint from dripping down the sloped sides. Several lighter layers, with time to dry between application, will prevent running and drips.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl or canister
• Pencil
• Utility knife or scissors
• Cardboard box
• Paint
• Brushes
• Rags or an old towel

Instructions

Preparation

1. Make a stand for the spherical object. Find a round bowl or canister with a lip that has a smaller diameter than the round object.

2. Trace the smaller circle onto the side of a study cardboard box with a pencil.

3. Cut out the cardboard circle with the utility knife or scissors. Make sure the circle is smaller than the diameter of the object. This way, if you paint exactly half, it will rest securely on the box without any paint touching the paper.

Paint

1. Apply a first layer and allow it to dry to avoid running paint. Set the round object on a stand, or prop it up with objects at its four corners.

2. Paint a first layer on the untouched side of the sphere, and set it in the stand or prop it up to dry.

3. Then, paint another layer, careful to keep the wet paint from touching the stand.

Rotate

1. Turn the round object 90 degrees away from the "equator" of the round object and apply another coat of paint. Turning the object should prevent a line created by the overlap of paint.

2. Turn the round object 180 degrees to apply another coat of paint on the opposite side of the sphere. Set it in the stand until dry.

3. Add another coat of paint to the other side of the round object, and let it dry in the stand. Turn the round object 180 degrees again, and add another coat of paint. Let the orb stand until dry.

4. Spray with a protective coat or varnish the round object for a complete look.

Tips & Warnings

• Select a paint based on the item and its intended use. Latex paint dries quickly, cleans up with water, and provides a heavier coverage on first coat. Oil-based paints have excellent adhesion, and are good for chalky surfaces or heavy metals. Consider acrylic, a good craft paint that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, canvas, resin, paper mache and Styrofoam. Spray paint is also a convenient paint type for several types of surfaces.

References

• Ace Hardware: Frequently Asked Questions