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Main => Woodworking => Topic started by: massive88 on October 23, 2008, 10:30:27 am

Title: How to get the best finish using spray paint on MDF?
Post by: massive88 on October 23, 2008, 10:30:27 am

So far I have followed Timoe's advice here - http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=66008.msg875767#msg875767

And have put on my second coat of oil based primer.  I will be painting the MDF black tonight or tomorrow.

Does anyone have any experience making those super glossy piano-type finishes and has insight they want to share?  Should I polish the Black Coats using any sort of rubbing compound?  What about the Clear coat?  Has anyone used High Gloss Wipe on Polycrylic instead of spray for this?

I used the wipe on for my wooden box, and was happy with the results, should I use what I am comfortable with or will the spray paint can version give me a better finish?

Really Im just looking for any tips or tricks as I head into the final painting stages.  I really want to nail this the first time and get it as good as it can be, Im on a sort of deadline with this project and will not have time to redo it if I fubar it.

Title: Re: How to get the best finish using spray paint on MDF?
Post by: javeryh on October 23, 2008, 11:08:59 am

You can read how I did it at www.bellasarcade.blogspot.com

I put a pink piano finish on the sides and back of my cab and it came out great.  Check the posts around the middle of 2007 (starting in April, I think).  This shot gives you an idea of the results (check out the reflection):

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=59828.0;attach=77263;image)

Title: Re: How to get the best finish using spray paint on MDF?
Post by: ChadTower on October 24, 2008, 01:06:49 pm

Wow.  I need to learn how to do that.

Title: Re: How to get the best finish using spray paint on MDF?
Post by: javeryh on October 26, 2008, 08:36:55 am

It was the first - and likely last - time I try something like that.  What a pain!!   ;D

Title: Re: How to get the best finish using spray paint on MDF?
Post by: ChadTower on October 27, 2008, 10:38:40 am

How durable does it seem like it's going to be?  I wouldn't mind all the sanding passes but it would tick me off badly if I did all that and then you could nick the paint with a tennis ball.

Title: Re: How to get the best finish using spray paint on MDF?
Post by: javeryh on October 27, 2008, 11:16:59 am

It seems to be holding up quite well but it has only been a year.  There are no scratches or nicks in the surface.  The clear coat dries pretty hard.  I'm very happy with it but the process was very long and took a lot of patience.