Latex paint is water based and the latter is mixed with various acrylics and polymers that are used as binders. It is a popular type of paint because it is washable, resistant and adheres well to surfaces; moreover, it dries in a very short time, is applied with a single pass and washes off with soap and water. It spreads easily on most surfaces with a brush or roller; however, the spray technique is a better choice when the area and condition of the material is an issue and you are also short on time. It is the most suitable option because the spray reaches every crevice and corner, guarantees a moist, homogeneous and uniform layer that adheres better to the material. The small latex paint containers are also available as spray cans and are perfect for coloring small objects and small surfaces. To tackle a more demanding job, you need to know the costs and difficulties associated with spray painting with a latex product.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: with a Manual Airbrush
Step 1. Use the airbrush for smaller projects, such as painting furniture
This type of power tool typically comes with a barrel screwed to the gun itself that holds the paint
Step 2. Prepare the surface to be treated by making it slightly rough with sandpaper
Then clean it carefully.
Step 3. Cover all furniture, carpet and adjacent objects to prevent the "cloud" of color from invading them
Step 4. Test the gun on a piece of wood to choose the spray nozzle and type of movement that is most effective for the job you need to do
Step 5. Distribute the color on the surface with light strokes
Step 6. Clean the gun by filling the reservoir with lightly soapy water and spraying all of the liquid
Method 2 of 3: with an Airless Spray Gun
Step 1. Opt for this tool if you need to paint large surfaces, such as interior or exterior walls
Step 2. Prepare the gun, hose and siphon according to the directions on the package
Step 3. Fill a bucket with approximately 8 liters of paint
Step 4. Adjust the pressure and perform a test spray on a piece of cardboard or wood according to the manufacturer's directions
You can understand that the pressure is too high when the paint layer is too thin and the color is dispersed
Step 5. Hold the tip of the gun approximately 35 cm from the material to be painted and move it from side to side, so that each pass overlaps the first one half of its width
Step 6. Wash the equipment with soap and water
Method 3 of 3: with the HVLP (High Volume and Low Pressure) Spray Gun
Step 1. Use an HVLP gun for projects where streaking is important
- This tool, just like the airless one, is equipped with tank, hose, compressor and gun with different nozzles.
- The high volume spraying allows you to apply a greater dose of paint, which is however done at low pressure to avoid spreading a too thick layer.
Step 2. Test the gun on a piece of wood or cardboard to familiarize yourself with the movement you need to perform and choose the most suitable nozzle
Step 3. Paint the surface with smooth movements, so that each pass overlaps the previous one half of its width
Step 4. Wash the equipment with a little soap and water
Advice
- Latex paint is water based, so its most common diluent is water; however, try to use distilled water as tap water contains chemicals that can alter the color.
- Wash tools with water and a little soap.
- Clean up splatters and drops with lightly soapy water.
- Close the paint cans tightly when not in use.
- Make a homemade thinner by mixing distilled water and propylene glycol in equal parts; the water dilutes the color while the chemical promotes slow drying.
- Dilute the paint according to the instructions and directions on the gun you use, as each model requires different viscosities to prevent the flow from clogging.
- Place the paint tank and the machinery away from the surface you need to treat, keep a distance of about 6m when you are indoors and 15m when working outdoors.
Warnings
- If you accidentally inject the paint into your skin, go to the emergency room.
- Latex paint is water-based, so it is not suitable for painting ferrous metals, wallpaper or rough wood.
- Put on the protective equipment, goggles, gloves and respirator included.