How to Mix Enamel Paint

Enamel paints are oil-based covering products, which, while hardening or drying out exhibit a glossy and opaque finish. These paints are usually used for covering surfaces where a high gloss finish is required; moreover, they are long-lasting. Enamel paints are usually used for covering surfaces in kitchens, bathrooms, furniture, automobiles, boats, and components of air crafts and space shuttles. Apart from giving a glossy finish to the surface, enamel paints also protect painted surfaces from heat, humidity, moisture, and grubbiness. Enamel paints should be mixed with proper reducers to bring down the overall costs associated with any sort of enamel paint.

Reducers do not diminish the final quality and finish of enamels; however, it should be noted that only the reducers that are recommended by the manufacturer for that particular paint should be used for mixing purposes. The procedure is quite simple and can be followed easily.

Step 1 – Stir the Paint

If you're just buying the paint at the hardware store, ask them to mix it in the electric mixer to save time and effort while mixing much more thoroughly. If you've had it for a while, mix it with a special spiral tool fitted on a drill, or manually by using a stick or any other rod-like object, stirring the paint slowly for 3 to 5 minutes in order to obtain a homogeneous mixture and smooth consistency. Transfer the paint to another container without using a funnel as the paint is still very viscous to pass smoothly through the funnel.

Step 2 – Add the Reducer

Always remember to add the reducer to the paint gradually until you get the right consistency. In an empty paint container, pour half of the paint taken aside. Now start mixing some reducer in it stirring the mixture continuously. Even after the reducer has been added, continue stirring till you obtain a thinner but smoother mix of paint. The paint will need to be much thinner when applying it with a spray gun than with a brush. There are special viscosity cups available that can greatly help to get the right consistency for specific tip sizes.

Step 3 – Apply the Paint

The paint is now ready to be applied on any surface. If you are using a paint gun, just pour it in the gun using a funnel to avoid spilling. For painting any other surface with a brush or paint-roller, take out only the required amount from the mixture and keep the remaining mixture tightly covered. If left open, a highly volatile reducer will evaporate leaving the paint too thick, and needing more reducer.