16 / USE THE RIGHT NOZZLES
Cases generally demand wide spray patterns to deal with large areas,
but most cans are equipped with relatively narrow spray nozzles. It’s
best to invest in some alternative nozzles where possible, such as
these Montana nozzles, which offer a variety of spray widths – the two
widest ones are ideal for cases.
19 / SAND AS NECESSARY
You want the surface to be as smooth as possible for the colour coat, and
sanding with 1,000-grit sandpaper can smooth the primer to a perfect
finish. Do this after three or four primer coats, adding more as necessary.
Keep pressure to a minimum and use your fingers to feel when the
surface is silky-smooth.17 / SUSPEND THE PARTS
One simple way to position your components for spraying is to suspend
them, which is easy from inside a plastic greenhouse. You can use electrical
cable to suspend them, as it’s sturdy, durable and easy to tie. Bend it away
from the case sections so the spray can reach every part of them.^20 /^ APPLY COLOUR COAT
Ensure the colour coat is properly mixed according to the can’s
instructions, then spray in the same way as the primer, from 30cm
away, moving swiftly over the panels. Build up layers with 15 minutes’
drying time between each coat. Aim to apply four coats, or more until
the primer layer is covered.
18 / APPLY PRIMER
Primer creates a smooth undercoat on which the colour coat sits, as
well as helping with adhesion. Apply light coats, moving the can about
30cm every second, left to right, from 30cm away. Leave each coat to
dry for ten minutes, adding four coats in total or stopping when the base
case colour can’t be seen.
21 / REMOVE MASKING
Once you’ve applied the colour coat, remove the masking – if you do
this after applying the clear coat, you can end up with the paint tearing.
Pull on the masking tape gently and slowly peel it off.