How do you paint a car?

Question

I want to paint my 96 Buick. Where do I buy the paint and how long does it take and what are all the steps? How much does it cost? Also what if I took it to a shop to get painted how much do you think they would charge?

Answer 1

Painting a car is more an art than mere spraying. You can do it yourself by renting the equip (sprayer, airtank and gun) from a rental place. If you do, make sure you get a gravity feed (ie. paint can on top) as it will have less chance of clogging. You can get paint (by order) from an automotive parts dealer, best bet is shop arounf as prices can vary. The job itself is rather involved, you'll need a space that's relativly clean, and large enuf for you, the equip and your car, about the size of a double car garage.

That being sd, sand the whole car down (please wear a mask/respirator, that paint does havoc on your lungs), wipe it very carefully with a moist cloth, tape/mask all glass and chrome, the wipe it down again and start painting. Make sure the area is well ventilated too, and do it in clean, short strokes with the gun. You'll need a few coats to get it even, probably 3-4, 5-6 is better (depends on paint). wet sand between coats with 600 or 1000 grit.

After that's all done, you'll want to clear coat it, usually 3-4 coats is good, mor eif you want a really deep shine. Again sand between coats. Then, enjoy!

If you take it to a shop, you can expect between $800 (Maco) to about $2000 for about the same thing, depends on colour of paint (rare colours cost more) and how much clear coat. It usually takes a couple days, because they have to let it dry properly (unless they have an oven dryer then it's a LOT quicker).

Answer 2

Maaco will prep and paint your car to several economy price levels... the more work they do the higher the cost.

I used to paint cars and was amazed how much paint costs today - expect to pay around $200 out the door for a gallon of quality auto paint.

Maaco can "put paint on A car" for as low as $250 - such a deal. But if you want to "paint Your car" the right way it will be much more than that.

Answer 3

Just pay the 500 bucks and be done with it painting aint for anybody.

Answer 4

spray paint or paint brush.

Answer 5

I'd try using Macco. I hear they're pretty good in situations like this.

Answer 6

fix sand clean wipe tape wipe spray