Learning how to paint a kayak with spray paint is a more convenient way to revive your old boat.
But at the same time, it can be a tricky thing to do. There are certain things to keep in mind, so you can be sure it turns out perfectly well.
So, if you are looking to improve your kayak’s quality, keep reading. We’ll let you in these expert tips on how to use spray paint for your kayak. Then, we also have additional guidelines to ensure a pro paint job with great results.
Let’s dive into it!
Contents
How to Paint a Kayak with Spray Paint – Before You Start
Are you tired of your kayak’s current design?
Perhaps you are looking to add some style or revive its appearance?
Either way, you should know how to paint a kayak with spray paint. It’s actually the easiest thing to improve your kayak’s appearance. Plus, it’s fast, too.
With a fresh coat of paint, you can enhance the aesthetics of your boat. Especially if there are age spots starting to show.
Now, having someone paint your kayak is expensive. It can be an unnecessary expense if you can easily do it yourself.
But at the same time, the steps are not always straightforward.
For instance, there are some people who would rather use their paintbrushes to repaint the boat. But it is a little tougher to do, particularly for beginners.
It requires skill when using a paintbrush to give your kayak a makeover. The brush method is also slower since you have to go from one small section to another.
However, spray paint is faster. You can simply spray the paint over the surface, and it should cover a bigger section.
Yet, the drawback to this is that there is much less control with a spray paint. When you make a mistake, it can be tricky to undo it. Or at least, another waste of energy.
This is why there are many kayak owners who would much rather use spray paint than a paintbrush.
The only time a paintbrush is a better option is when you are experienced in what you do. That, or you are looking to add a more intricate design. Perhaps you also have an artistic flair that you wish to show off.
So with all these things in mind, let us talk about spray painting a kayak and how to get started.
Simple Tips on How to Paint a Kayak with a Spray Paint
So we’ve already established the benefits of knowing how to paint a kayak with a spray paint.
Now, let’s talk about getting started.
How do you go about it, anyway?
Spray paint covers a larger area and can help to even out the coat of paint. There are also zero brush lines to worry about. So, that makes the outcome much smoother.
But the downside is that spraying tends to consume more paint. In fact, when you spray the contents, much of it goes into the air. As a result, over spraying occurs.
What to Do Before You Spray Paint
Additionally, spray painting can be messy. As we have mentioned, over spraying can cause a huge mess in the surrounding area. This is why before you get started, you need to prepare everything in the room.
You need to make sure you are away from objects that may otherwise get ruined by the paint. If you cannot be in a separate room, at least cover the objects nearby. Use plastic or tarp to protect these items from the paint that is just wafting in the air.
Aside from the objects around you, it is also important to protect yourself. Use proper eye gear and cover for your clothes. After all, the last thing you want is to be covered with paint.
And most importantly, never spray paint in an enclosed area. Choose a ventilated section in the room or better yet, use the spray paint outdoors. Keep in mind that spray paint causes so many fumes. Thus, these particles will only go airborne when you are in a closed room.
Prepare the Surface
Next, you need to prepare the kayak’s surface before you apply paint.
Sand the surface down with sandpaper using the correct grit. We recommend a grit level of 220 or 100 on a minimum for your kayak.
The goal is to keep the surface more suitable for absorbing the amount of paint you are looking to apply.
Read More: Easy Steps on How to Clean an Aluminum Canoe in 3 Ways!
Choose the Right Paint to Use
This is a very crucial step to follow.
Do keep in mind that the quality of paint impacts the outcome of the paint job. Hence, it needs to be ideal for plastics. Otherwise, the paint will not stick.
With the right paint, you can simply go for up to 2 coatings. Then, finish it off with a clear paint as a final coat.
If you wish, painting different materials for the kayak is absolutely possible. Whether it is fiberglass, polyethylene, and wooden, you should be able to paint it. It is just a matter of ensuring the right paint to use.
Make sure that all detachable parts in your kayak are carefully removed. Do this prior to painting. Remove the paddle holder, foot braces, kayak seats, and other items that you do not plan on painting.
It is only a matter of deciding if you want to paint these or not.
Conclusion
Knowing how to paint a kayak with spray paint can save you money by doing the job yourself.
So, be sure to start with a clean and dry kayak, the right paint to use, and follow the other tips mentioned in this post to ensure a good result for your paint job.
Then, you can have a new and improved kayak that looks just the way you want it to be!
