Shake well - if the can\'s instructions say shake for two minutes then actually shake the can for about that time, not \'two minutes\' (which, let\'s be honest, is usually more like 20-30 seconds)
Under-agitating paint or primer in spraycans is possibly the main cause of disappointing results.
Warm the can of primer in hand-hot water (no hotter than this, just to be on the safe side). This increases pressure and reduces paint viscosity, both of which improve the fineness of the spray.
Shoot in short bursts from the right distance - too close and you\'ll almost certainly get an orange-peel effect and/or the primer will obscure detail and soften edges.
Build up to full coverage - one thick coat is
not the same as two or three thinner coats, as in most painting. If you\'re putting on a second coat 5 or 10 minutes after the first the can should be kept warm and it needs to be reshaken.
Originally posted by generulpoleaxe
a white primer should be put on thin enough that it looks almost grey.
Primer can be applied more thickly than that and still not obscure detail. I used to prime more lightly but now I like to ensure that there\'s no hint of metal showing through the primer layer (excluding recesses that the spray can\'t get to properly) as I\'ve found it\'s much more robust and gives a smoother finish.
Einion
