Spray Paint Primer?

[Neverending Project]

I plan on using spray paint as primer to treat my MDF control panel, before applying adhesive-backed vinyl. Some areas may be exposed where the vinyl won't be applied, and I would rather have them flat black then gloss. But I have read that gloss or enamel should be used to prime a surface for CPS adhesion.

So my question is, will flat paint be good enough, or should I use gloss spray paint?

[shardian]

Who told you that gloss is better for adhesion?

[Neverending Project]

Who told you that gloss is better for adhesion?

Hmm, I don't remember. I thought I read it somewhere, but after a couple of searches I can't seem to find it anywhere. It may have been in the instruction sheet that Scott shipped with the mamemarquees order... I can't really remember.

[shardian]

Well gloss surfaces are not good for adhesion. Your CPO will work with a gloss surface, but a roughed up or primered surface is better.

[mountain]

I have always used automotive sanding primer for MDF surface preparation. It works great for paint and adhesive backed materials. Spray it on and sand a few times and the surface will be as smooth as glass.

[Neverending Project]

I don't have a sprayer, so I was going to just use good ol' canned spray paint (since it is a relatively small job). Could I assume that spray primer is as good as automotive sanding primer? And can I assume for my purpose (adhesive-backed vinyl) that flat spray-paint will work equally well?

[mountain]

You can buy it at Lowes and Home depot. It is in a can and costs just a few bucks. The beauty of it is that it dries super fast and sands really well giving you a nice smooth finish.

[Neverending Project]

Thanks!