To spray paint horizontal blinds, you typically prepare the blinds by cleaning them thoroughly and allowing them to dry, and then apply the spray paint holding the can the recommended distance from the surface.
Spray painting horizontal blinds can give them a fresh look or change their color to match updated decor. It's a relatively straightforward process if done correctly.
Step-by-Step Spray Painting Guide
Here's a breakdown of the process, incorporating preparation and application techniques:
1. Preparation is Key
Before you even pick up a spray can, proper preparation is crucial for a successful outcome.
- Remove Blinds: Take the blinds down from the window.
- Clean Thoroughly: Blinds collect dust and grime. According to the reference, you can soak vinyl ones in a tub of warm soapy water for 30 minutes. This helps loosen stubborn dirt. For other materials like wood or metal, a good wipe-down with a degreasing cleaner might be sufficient. Rinse thoroughly.
- Dry Completely: Ensure the blinds are completely dry before painting. The reference states they were hung them to dry. This is important to prevent paint adherence issues.
- Choose Your Location: Spray painting should always be done in a well-ventilated area, preferably outside. Lay down drop cloths or old newspapers to protect the surface underneath.
- Masking (Optional but Recommended): If your blinds have components you don't want painted (like the headrail, cords, or tapes), mask them off using painter's tape.
2. Selecting the Right Paint
Choosing the correct type of spray paint is vital for durability and appearance.
- Material Specificity: Use spray paint designed for the material of your blinds (e.g., plastic/vinyl spray paint, metal spray paint, or all-surface paint).
- Finish: Decide on the finish you want (e.g., matte, satin, semi-gloss, gloss).
- Primer: For better adhesion and coverage, especially on plastic or metal, consider using a spray primer specifically designed for those surfaces before applying the color coat.
3. The Spraying Process
Apply the paint in thin, even coats.
- Shake the Can: Shake the spray paint can thoroughly for about a minute before use and occasionally during painting.
- Test Spray: Do a test spray on a piece of scrap material to check the color and spray pattern.
- Application Distance: Hold the can six to eight inches from the surface of the blinds, as recommended in the reference. Holding it too close can cause drips, while holding it too far away can result in a dusty finish.
- Spray Motion: Use smooth, sweeping motions across the slats. It's often easiest to spray the blinds while they are hanging or laid flat on a surface, adjusting the angle to reach all sides of the slats. Some people find it effective to paint one side, let it dry partially, then flip or adjust and paint the other. Ensure you get the edges of the slats as well.
- Multiple Thin Coats: Apply several thin coats rather than one thick one. This prevents drips and ensures better adhesion and a smoother finish. Allow each coat to dry to the touch according to the paint manufacturer's instructions before applying the next.
| Spraying Tip | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Hold can 6-8 inches | Maintain a consistent distance from the surface. | Prevents drips and dustiness. |
| Use sweeping motions | Move the can smoothly back and forth or up and down the slats. | Ensures even coverage. |
| Apply thin coats | Build up color gradually. | Avoids runs and improves finish. |
4. Drying and Reinstallation
- Full Drying Time: Allow the blinds to dry completely according to the paint can's instructions. This may take 24 hours or more, depending on humidity and temperature.
- Curing Time: Some paints require a longer curing time (days or weeks) to reach maximum hardness. Handle them gently during this period.
- Reinstall: Once fully dry and cured, carefully rehang the blinds.
By following these steps, including the cleaning and drying methods and maintaining the specified spray distance from the reference, you can effectively update your horizontal blinds with spray paint.
