How to Customize a Motorhome Painting Job

  • 4-20 hours
  • Advanced
  • 350-2,000
What You'll Need
Paper
Pencil
Stencils
Protective paper
Masking tape
Scissors
Paint
Paintbrushes
Paint sprayer
Tape measure
Use of digital camera
Use of computer with photo editing software
What You'll Need
Paper
Pencil
Stencils
Protective paper
Masking tape
Scissors
Paint
Paintbrushes
Paint sprayer
Tape measure
Use of digital camera
Use of computer with photo editing software

By undertaking the task of motorhome painting you will be able to customize your RV and make it stand out from the rest. Bearing in mind some ideas and techniques will ensure that you get the result that you want.

Step 1 – Plan Design

Begin the process of undertaking motorhome painting by creating a design. This can either be done on paper or digitally with the use of a digital camera and a computer. If you are skilled at drawing, you should sketch the basic shape of the motorhome. This can then be used to create a design exactly as it will look on the real thing. Alternatively, take a photograph of the motorhome with a digital camera and transfer the mage to a computer. Using specialized software will enable you to create designs on the photo image.

The resulting image can be used as a guide to work to during the motorhome painting process, and will help you to determine the volume and color of paint required. When creating your design, think about what you want to achieve, for example, whether you want it to stand out or whether you want a subtle design.

Step 2 – Obtain Materials

Once the plan is complete, you will be in a position to obtain the necessary materials. For basic designs, you may not need anything more than protective paper and masking tape to protect the area that will remain paint-free. Obtain the correct quantity of paint by measuring the area where paint will be applied and using this during the purchase. Ready-made stencils can be obtained from craft shops or specialized car accessory stores or custom designs can be made using masking tape or by cutting shapes into card or paper.

Step 3 – Prepare Paintwork

Prepare the motorhome for painting by cleaning and drying it thoroughly. Follow this by attaching the stencils to the motorhome, using a tape measure to ensure precise positioning. Make sure that you use the same measurements on either side of the motorhome so that any pattern will be equal.

Step 4 – Apply Paint

The motorhome painting can be undertaken with a paintbrush, but you may find it easier to complete with a paint sprayer. You must ensure that the correct paint is used in this case. Make sure that you keep the sprayer moving to ensure that the color is applied evenly. If necessary, use a ladder to reach any high points and complete the entire first coat before allowing it to dry and applying another if required. Thick lines of paint can be applied with a paintbrush, as can freehand designs. Many types of paint will not require a top coat but others will in order to seal the design, which should be applied when the design is complete and the paint is dry.