Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge OT- Painting for Newbies

Ok, I've been thinking it would be fun to give painting tins a try. I have zero experience, but I figure it can't be that hard right?

So here is the question- What do I need to get started? Nothing high end, I just want something to learn with. I was checking out air compressors and automotive spray guns and lowes, but I really had no idea what I was looking for.

Anybody have any input? I'm sure I have lots of wasted paint and ruined paint jobs in my future, but its cold out and I need a hobby!

Suppose it all depends what you are painting....a sunset or a piece of abstract modern art....even a ceiling all require different techniques and equipment.... ...I will get my coat now...

Always a smart remark!

I just want to be able to lay down a single color paint job on some motorcycle tins. Anybody have any experience doing this sort of thing?

Oh, I was going to suggest Bob Ross' Joy of Painting.

I've done plenty of bodywork and prep for paint. However the only time I actually squirted paint with a professional spraygun it was a disaster. On one side of my computer case I sprayed too light and on the other I sprayed so much the whole thing ran and we just wiped it off with a paper towel and started over. And that was on a flat surface, not a compound curved surface.

I'm sure someone will post something useful, there are a few excellent DIY painters in the group. You might try a search of all the forums - I'm not sure what the appropriate spot would be.

Find an auto body supply place and talk to them about it.
Ive done body work, sprayed in a booth and there are two things I know first hand:
1) Its not easy in any way shape or form.
2) I hate bodywork!

Well heck Nathen since I know you I'll throw in my 2 cents worth. I saw on Texas Walker Ranger once......You know my "favorite" TV show a guy painting a bike...... Well never mind. I have painted several cars and tins on 1 bike and what I learned was...... The jobs turned out ok but I was not satisfied with the finish because..... 1. trash/dust/debris/bugs will always get in the paint without a proper paint booth, Even if your being super careful, I always wet the floor down to keep dust from being blown around, Still got trash in it. That's why I had RC paint my tins. 2. The right pressure setting for the gun your using is way important, I always shot a test piece until I got it like I wanted it. 3. Always keep the gun moving at the same speed when spraying, keep the same distance from the piece being painted and follow the contours, If you slow or stop while spraying say hello to a run......U wont be happy! 4.Select the proper reducer speed for the temperature at which you will be painting in, The paint shop will assist you in this. 5. Good lighting and the piece to be painted at a comfortable height to keep from getting in funky positions that cause fatigue. This will cause you to screw up! 6. which should be #1 but since these are in no particular order.......Prep! A good prep job erases many sins! Sand to a smooth even surface. Paint will not hide any imperfection! 7. A good moisture filter is a must have, Any oil or water will ruin the paint job. Hope this helps. T

So let's see...

FJ says it can be a disaster.
Z says it's hard.
Tmax makes it sound tough.

Maybe I'll take up knitting....

It is tough.
That's why good painters make $$$.

See if your local community college has a course in body and paint.

And don't forget, quality equipment can make the difference. Quality = $$$

It can be done by a hobbyist in the driveway, but it's probably not going to come out right the first, second or even third time. I forgot to mention the owner of said professional spraygun was standing right next to me, coaching me, and I still fubar'd it. The point? I didn't practice first. Or I should say, that WAS my first practice.

Your best bet is to do what I do: do all the prep work and body work and take it to someone who can squirt paint. You'll save money in the long run not having to buy all the tools and materials and do all the practice work, but also not paying the shop to sand. Talk to them first and ask them how they want it prepped. Not all painters will do this so you might have to ask around. Most might want to do all the work to make more money on the job. Some will be happy to just squirt. I happened to luck out and have a buddy who does great work. He also works in the paint business so I hear lots of stories. Don't act like they're doing you a favor, and ask lots of questions. If they won't answer or answer reluctantly, move on.

Consider powder coating. Eastwood sells kits, books, supplies, videos, etc.

Eastwood

all the bodywork--sanding priming, sealing must be perfect to get a good job. usually the thing to do is use one line of products for paint ,primer, sealer, ect. the best paint job wont look good if its not properly prepped. also another thing to think about---when the paint, clear and primer are mixed to fumes are very bad for your health, and the waste is considered hazardous. using spray can primer and paint will not last or will it be able to hold a shine or be waxed. just the paint products can cost hundreds of dollars. to get any decent finish with a paint gun you need to spend at least $300, and you will need a oil and water free supply to the gun. if you want to "learn" it would probably be best to get a book like others have mentioned, if you need the stuff painted i have access to all the proper things and most paint colors, send me a pm , if you wanted to ship it i could do it inexpensively,-----cliff

The health part is very important. Altough not really expensive. You can get proper protection with a 20$ Silicone Mask, and filter cartridges go for 10-15$ a pair.

many of the chemicals when painting can also be absorbed through the eyes, that why a fresh air supplied hood should be worn, along with gloves and a full body suit

I've done a lot of hobby painting over the years, with my best effort being a bright red BMW for my cousin. Although basic painting technique hasn't really changed a lot, the paints and the chemicals used has changed a lot! Barely decent equipemt can be pricy. At least $200 for a fairly good spray gun. Buying material is pricy, also. Just the materials for a basic tin painting is sure to cost at least $100, depending on color and type of paint. Having said all this, I don't want to be discouraging. Take a college class if it is availabe. Better yet, buddy up to an old body man, explain that you would be very willing to shut up and learn some basic painting techniques from an "old pro". Most painter/artists dig a little ego stroking. If you approach asking for help with the right attitude and a humble desire to learn, a lot of painter/bodywork guys would be willing to teach you the basics. One more thing, pick a small shop, not one run by the big auto lots. I've learned a lot of stuff through the years with these techniques.

I don't paint cars or bikes or do my own dental work. I can change oil!