How to paint side art?

[glonq]

I've got an idea for custom side art that isn't too complex -- it's more or less solid-colored shapes and regions.  Rather than getting custom vynils or sideart printed, is it feasible to paint it on myself?  If so, does anybody have some advice on how to handle this?  I'm using MDF.

- What kind of primer or base?
- Assuming that I mask (tape) or stelcil my shapes, is rolling or spraying better?
- If I roll, can I use latex, or do I need to use oil (yuk)?
- If I spray (can, not air compressor), what kind of paint?  Enamel?
- What kind of clear-coat or gloss should I apply to protect my artwork?

[Ginsu Victim]

Search for threads dealing with stencils. Many of the classics, Pac-man, Defender, etc used stencils and there are paint restoration threads dealing with it.

[WunderCade]

If you are going to use spray cans, go with Rustoleum brand. Just my opinion, but that spray can brand is the best in terms of getting a decent looking finish, IMHO.

Since you're using MDF, go with an oil-based primer. After that, you can use the easier water-base latex paints for your base color or go with the enamel since you can get that in the spray can as well.

Rolling leaves marks and orange-peel. Spraying really reduces that problem.

As far as stencilling...I'd go with the spray can technique there too, just use very lite numerous coats, instead of 2 thick coats.

Make sure to let each layer properly dry and set before applying tape, or when you attempt to peel off your tape, it'll bring paint with it and eff up your day.

[glonq]

Thanks for the tips.

Should I re-tape between coats, or only remove the tape after the final coat?

[WunderCade]

It depends on your layer requirements. If you have to tape off one layer, to paint a second color (layer), then you have nochoice but to remove the tape and re-tape, which is no big deal as long as you make sure you follow the waiting times on the directions. It'll tell you a "set time" to abide by.

[wildbill]

laying your sub straight flat will rid you of the orange peel effect when rolling on enamel base paint. mix your paint well! spray bombing leaves overspray that gets under your stencil and your likely to overspray and get runs.
and try to get some low tack transfer tape as your mask to eliminate the possibility of removing paint when taking off the tape.Remove mask when paint is wet