NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

So you’ve got yourself a can of spray paint, and you’re looking for some inspiration – you’re in the right place.

Spray paint is a great way to inject some more life and colour into your home, and it can be used it virtually countless ways.

For a list of ideas, safety rules to follow and tips for how to prep different types of material, we tapped into the expertise of Pat Gilham, painting and decorating expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk.

Pat has laid out some safety rules which should not be forgotten.

1. Stay away from heat and fire

‘Make sure you keep away from heat, fire, and sparks. Avoid smoking when spray painting and turn off any points of ignition such as stoves, electric tools, and appliances. Keep the spray can away from sunlight or heat from radiators or other hot items. For the best finish, avoid using spray paints directly in hot and humid weather.’

2. Don’t mess with the spray can

‘Never puncture, burn, or incinerate the spray can bottles. Avoid discarding the spray cans in a trash compactor. However, you can recycle them when they are empty.’

‘The vapours from the spray can be harmful. Avoid continuously breathing in the mist by spraying outdoors whenever possible. When spraying indoors, open windows and doors to ensure maximum ventilation. Wearing respiratory protection is also recommended, such as a face mask.’

4. When painting fighting and electrical fixtures

5. When painting items that live near open flames

First, you’ll want to take off previous stains or paints.

‘Sand the item and clean it before applying a fresh spray of paint,’ adds Pat.

You’ll also want to sand wicker before you paint it. When you’re done sanding, wipe it and prime it.

‘The surface needs to be dry and dull before spraying it,’ explains Pat.

‘If you are spraying resin wicker, clean it with an ammonia-based cleaner before spraying. New plastic wicker pieces should be wiped first with a paint thinner.’

Plastic can take to general-purpose spray paint quite well, but don’t think you won’t have to prep it just like other materials.

‘Clean old plastics with an ammonia-based cleaner and clean new plastics with a paint thinner before spray-painting,’ advises.

Now, well get into some materials for which you might want to get a special type of spray paint.

Pat advises: ‘If you want to repaint a rusted appliance or a grill, choose a special paint with magnetic or heat-resistant qualities.

‘Remove the existing rust before painting and lightly sand the surface before you start.’

First, you’ll want to wash the fabric.

Then, Pat says: ‘Check that the fabrics are not treated with any protectants that may prevent paint adhesion.

‘If you’re applying detailed designs, choose airbrush style applicators.’

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Technically you can paint ceramics like plant pots with normal spray paint, but they’d likely be better off with some speciality stuff if you can make it work.

Pat recommends: ‘Rough up the glazed surface with sandpaper.

‘You can get some kiln-set paints at craft stores.’

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