How to use an HVLP spray gun

Mastering the art of spray paint can be gratifying, especially when it shows off a finished product that has been completed by your own hand.

Whether you’re someone who is a professional artist or perhaps a hobbyist with an eye for detail.

Setting up and creating a work of art that is worthy of showing off is easier than ever thanks to HVLP spray paint gun technology.

In this post of mine, I will teach you guys “how to use an HVLP spray gun” properly so that you people out there.

Who can be an amateur in this profession don’t mess up stuff and getting disappointed?

Don’t worry I will try my best to teach you guys the best use of an HVLP spray gun in my post.

On the other hand, I have to admit that HVLP gun sprayers may seem a bit more difficult to use at first. However, you will discover that they are basically pretty similar to other sprayers out there.

In fact, if you’re familiar with HVLP sprayer parts, you will no doubt find it easier to use one of these particular machines.

How to use an HVLP spray gun

What is an HVLP sprayer?

In short, an HVLP spray gun is a spray gun that uses much less paint than a regular paint gun. One of the main benefits of an HVLP spray gun is that it reduces paint waste.

Although the price tag may be much higher than a traditional spray gun some are affordable in the market also.

And the lower amount of paint consumed per project can actually save you money in the long run, which is great news for many DIY enthusiasts.

These spray guns are also much less messy than traditional paint guns.

Since they are more precise, they are able to completely cover all areas without running or dripping.

HVLP spray guns also provide you with excellent control over your spray pattern, which means you are better able to spray a fine pattern, unlike with a traditional paint gun.

This helps you get a more detailed finish. These spray guns are also excellent at laying paint down extremely smoothly, and they produce a superior finish that is long-lasting.

Types of HVLP sprayers out there:

In fact, there are types of HVLP spray guns out there. However, they can be divided into two categories: air-powered and electric.

Air-powered HVLP spray guns use air pressure to deliver paint to the surface.

The air comes from a compressor, which also supplies air for the paint cups. Air needs to be filtered, so it does not blow any debris or other foreign particles into the paint.

The other type of HVLP spray gun uses electricity to produce pressure. The electricity goes to the high-pressure pump, which in turn creates pressure that pushes the paint out of the tip.

Some electric HVLP guns are corded, while others are cordless. However, they both have the same advantages.

Electric HVLP guns are quieter and produce less vibration, which is why many people like them.

They are smaller, easier to handle and a lot easier to use. However, some people dislike them because.

They can be a bit too complicated but they are not if they read the manual which the company sends with the product.

Things you will need to get the job done (My suggestions)

Make sure before starting with the project you have these things with you to make your work easy and with satisfactory results

• Paint sprayer which suits you
• The compressor can be needed sometimes
• Nozzle
• Coating
• Cardboard piece to check the sprayer
• Protection is a must like goggles, face masks, gloves, etc.

The process to set up the HVLP spray gun

When learning how to set up an HVLP spray gun, it very much depends on whether you’re using a pneumatic or turbine-powered unit.

But as the fundamentals are the same, I will keep it to four simple sections — preparation and how to properly adjust your HVLP spray gun.

Preparation of sprayer

First of all, the preparation of the sprayer is a must before doing anything.

When DIYing, preparation is key. The first step is to read your owner’s manual for any specific details.

From this, you can determine the exact air requirements for your device and have the correct-sized compressor at hand (in the case of a pneumatic spray gun).

The way I started painting my house was very simple. I wanted to remove the weathered finish, so I decided to prime the surface.

Doing so would provide an even base layer in preparation for repainting it with a fresh coat.

Selecting the appropriate type of paint spray tip is all part of the how-to choose a spray gun process — it’s not a case of one size fits all.

For example, if you’re planning on using a dense coating on an expansive surface area, you’ll need a larger-sized tip to the size.

Which your spray tip can atomize and project your fan pattern is going to determine the coverage you ultimately get for your body material.

This is where a sprayer such as the Wagner FLEXiO 5000 could be a great bit of kit — there are two different tips included with this high-quality HVLP gun.

The first is an x-large .50 mm wide pattern that offers great coverage over large surface areas while being a super fine finish;

And second, there’s also a .60 mm wide ultra & extra fine pattern option with this model, which should suit those looking to do more intricate detailing work!

Adjustment and testing of the HVLP sprayer

Before you start to work on a project, it is important to test out your equipment.

You want to make sure that everything is calibrated correctly so that when you actually begin working it will roll out right away.

To do this simply place some pieces of scrap cardboard or paper onto the top of the motor drive tray, and create a two-inch border of space around all sides.

Next set both the volume and angle controls accordingly – make sure that they are not too far apart, but also not setting controls too close together as this will give off an inconsistent coating.

To get the best out of your sprayer, keep the sprayer six inches away from the surface and gently pull on the trigger for a split second, then release it to deliver a quick burst of coating.

Once you see that even pattern with each such burst, that’s when you’ve got your pattern length set just right.

And unless you want a new design every time you open up your paint can don’t touch any more dials!

Now, hold your spray gun at a distance of around nine inches from the surface and spray another short burst of coating.

This time, there should be one pattern that is between nine and ten inches long. The pattern should provide total coverage in the center with an even fade away toward the edges.

You might find that the spray gun you’re using isn’t performing well at low RPMs. If you’re using a pneumatic gun with an air regulator, slightly reduce the pressure output on the regulator.

You can then begin the test again to fine-tune your settings and retry it until you achieve good results from all angles.

Once you finish this test and feel that you don’t need to make any further adjustments while working, then you’re ready to paint!

Some sprayer techniques I use

These are some of the techniques which I often use with HVLP spray guns for my projects.

I am gonna share these so that you guys get help with these while doing your projects with the HVLP sprayer.

I hope these techniques or some of these might help you out in some way or the other.

Let me know in the comments section if any one of these techniques helped you out while painting the surface or object

Uplift your project

If you’re working with a smaller-medium-sized object (think hobby-project sized rather than full-scale project)

It can help to raise your work so that you can use the HVLP system at a comfortable height to keep your posture safe and sound.

If you work in an area with a workbench, cover it with something to avoid damage and wear – like an old drop cloth shall we say? – and place your object on top.

If you don’t have a permanent workspace of your own just yet then don’t worry. You could use an old cardboard box or similar to hold up the object (carefully!) while you spray away.

Keeping the arm straight

You don’t need to walk a line between a tight, uncomfortable grip and a loose/limp hand.

Just keep your arm in a straight line with the HVLP spray gun nozzle while spraying on basecoats and stains — this will ensure even coverage of your favorite coatings.

Apply thinner coats

When you’re painting you should be aware that the thinner your coats, the easier it will be to get a smooth finished surface.

It’s easy to see when the paint is applied in an uneven manner and you’ll end up with drips, which not only looks unprofessional but is also a time-waster for sanding it down after as well.

Going with the Grain

When staining or painting a wood-based project, go with the grain. Much like music, this directly follows the lead of a headliner act as well-known and widely regarded as Wood Grain.

By following what naturally comes to you once exposed to it through an HVLP paint sprayer.

You’ll achieve a finish that won’t soon be forgotten by anyone that might happen to lay eyes on your masterpiece of DIY!

Check the weather before starting

At one of my friend’s places there’s always raining so he also checks that if the weather is clear a little bit then he is good to go or he covers the stuff if he had to paint while in little rain.

Not all work days are made equal. It’s a good idea to choose a non-breezy day when working outdoors.

Because you don’t want your project to end up looking like a Jackson Pollock painting in the end.

Trade-offs can be made of course, if the time crunch is real but we recommend coming prepared so that the choice is not yours to make.

Protect yourself

I’d like to point out that it’s vital to wear a face mask, eye goggles, and coveralls while spraying.

Not only will this protect your clothes and avoid getting the coating on yourself, but you can also prevent any irritation to your skin.

How do you use an HVLP sprayer?

• Prepare the surface to be sprayed by cleaning and sanding it.
• Mix the paint or stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Fill the sprayer’s cup with the paint or stain.
• Turn on the air compressor and adjust the pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Hold the sprayer about 8-12 inches away from the surface and pull the trigger to begin spraying.
• Move the sprayer in a steady, back-and-forth motion to apply an even coat.
• Release the trigger when you’re done spraying a section.
• Allow the paint or stain to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Clean the sprayer according to the manufacturer’s recommendations before storing it.

How do you mix paint for a HVLP sprayer?

• Start by reading the manufacturer’s instructions for the paint you’re using.
• Measure out the appropriate amount of paint and pour it into a separate container.
• Slowly add the recommended amount of thinner or reducer to the paint. Stir the mixture well to ensure it is fully combined.
• Use a paint strainer to remove any lumps or debris from the mixture.
• Pour the paint into the sprayer’s cup and use the sprayer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Be sure to use the correct thinner/reducer for the paint you are using, some paints may require a special thinner/reducer to work correctly with HVLP sprayers.
• It’s also a good idea to test the paint mixture on a small, inconspicuous area before starting the main job to ensure that you have the right consistency and that the paint will spray correctly.

How do you get a smooth finish with a HVLP sprayer?

• Use the correct nozzle: HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) sprayers come with different nozzle sizes, use the right one for the job. A smaller nozzle size can produce a finer spray and a smoother finish.
• Adjust the pressure: Adjust the pressure on the air compressor to the recommended setting for the paint or stain you’re using. This will ensure that the paint is atomized properly and will result in a smoother finish.
• Thin the paint: Thin the paint or stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will make it easier for the paint to flow through the sprayer and will help to prevent drips and splatters.
• Use light even passes: Hold the sprayer 8-12 inches from the surface and use light, even passes to apply the paint. Overlapping each pass will help to ensure an even coat and a smooth finish.
• Use consistent movement: Use a consistent, back-and-forth movement to apply the paint. Avoid pausing or stopping in one spot, as this can cause drips and an uneven finish.
• Sand between coats: Sand lightly between coats, Use fine grit sandpaper, this will remove any imperfections and make the surface smooth before the next coat.
• Clean the equipment: Clean the sprayer and the nozzle thoroughly after each use. Paint buildup on the nozzle or in the sprayer can cause an uneven finish and can affect the quality of the paint spray in future uses.

Can you spray latex paint with hvlp gun?

Yes, you can spray latex paint with an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray gun.

However, latex paint is thicker than some other types of paint, which can make it more challenging to spray with an HVLP gun.

Here are some tips to help you get good results when spraying latex paint with an HVLP gun:

• Thin the paint: Latex paint can be thinned with water to make it easier to spray. You can add up to 10% water to latex paint to thin it for spraying. Be sure to stir the paint thoroughly after adding water to ensure a consistent consistency.
• Use a larger tip: When spraying latex paint, it’s recommended to use a tip size of at least 1.5mm. A larger tip will help the paint atomize properly and reduce the likelihood of clogging or spitting.
• Adjust the air pressure: The appropriate air pressure for spraying latex paint with an HVLP gun can vary depending on the specific gun and paint being used. As a general guideline, start with an air pressure of around 20-25 PSI and adjust from there as needed.
• Spray technique: When spraying latex paint, it’s important to use a slow and steady spray technique. Move the gun in a side-to-side motion, overlapping each pass by 50%. Hold the gun perpendicular to the surface being painted to achieve an even coat.

In summary, you can spray latex paint with an HVLP gun by thinning the paint, using a larger tip, adjusting the air pressure, and using a slow and steady spray technique.

With these tips in mind, you can achieve good results when spraying latex paint with an HVLP gun.

How to spray clear coat with hvlp gun?

Spraying a clear coat with an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) gun can produce a smooth and professional finish. Here are the steps to follow to spray clear coat with an HVLP gun:

1. Prepare the surface: Before spraying the clear coat, make sure that the surface is clean and free from any dirt, debris, or grease. Sand the surface if necessary to ensure a smooth and even finish.
2. Mix the clear coat: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the clear coat with any required solvents or thinners. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure an even consistency.
3. Set up the HVLP gun: Attach the appropriate nozzle and needle to the HVLP gun according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Set the air pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Typically, the air pressure should be set between 20-30 PSI.
4. Test spray: Before spraying the clear coat onto the surface, test spray on a scrap piece of material to check the spray pattern and adjust the air pressure and fluid flow accordingly.
5. Begin spraying: Hold the HVLP gun approximately 6-8 inches away from the surface and use a sweeping motion to apply the clear coat in thin, even coats. Start at the top of the surface and work downwards. Overlap each pass by approximately 50%.
6. Allow to dry: After applying the clear coat, allow it to dry for the recommended time according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply additional coats if necessary.
7. Clean the HVLP gun: Clean the HVLP gun thoroughly with an appropriate solvent according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

By following these steps, you can achieve a smooth and professional finish when spraying clear coat with an HVLP gun.

It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific clear coat you are using, as well as the HVLP gun and any other equipment.

How to spray gelcoat with HVLP gun?

Spraying gelcoat with an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) gun can be a bit more challenging than spraying other types of coatings.

But with the right technique and equipment, it can be done. Here are the steps to follow to spray gelcoat with an HVLP gun:

• Prepare the surface: Before spraying the gelcoat, make sure that the surface is clean and free from any dirt, debris, or grease. Sand the surface if necessary to ensure a smooth and even finish.
• Mix the gelcoat: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the gelcoat with any required solvents or thinners. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure an even consistency.
• Set up the HVLP gun: Attach the appropriate nozzle and needle to the HVLP gun according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Set the air pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Typically, the air pressure should be set between 40-60 PSI.
• Test spray: Before spraying the gelcoat onto the surface, test spray on a scrap piece of material to check the spray pattern and adjust the air pressure and fluid flow accordingly.
• Begin spraying: Hold the HVLP gun approximately 6-8 inches away from the surface and use a sweeping motion to apply the gelcoat in thin, even coats. Start at the top of the surface and work downwards. Overlap each pass by approximately 50%.
• Apply a second coat: Allow the first coat to dry for the recommended time according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply a second coat if necessary.
• Apply wax: After the gelcoat has dried, apply a wax or other protective coating to the surface to prevent oxidation and fading.
• Clean the HVLP gun: Clean the HVLP gun thoroughly with an appropriate solvent according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

By following these steps, you can achieve a smooth and professional finish when spraying gelcoat with an HVLP gun.

It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific gelcoat you are using, as well as the HVLP gun and any other equipment.

Keep in mind that spraying gelcoat can be more difficult than other coatings, so it may take some practice to achieve the desired results.

How to thin acrylic paint for HVLP spray gun?

Thinning acrylic paint is necessary when using an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray gun to ensure that the paint flows smoothly through the gun and produces an even, consistent finish.

Here are the steps to follow to thin acrylic paint for an HVLP spray gun:

1. Determine the viscosity of the paint: The viscosity of the paint will determine how much thinner you need to add. Acrylic paint should have a viscosity similar to that of heavy cream.
2. Choose the right thinner: There are several types of thinners that can be used to thin acrylic paint, including water, acrylic medium, and rubbing alcohol. Water is the most common thinner for acrylic paint.
3. Mix the paint: Pour the acrylic paint into a clean container and add a small amount of thinner. Mix thoroughly and add more thinner as needed until the desired consistency is achieved. A good rule of thumb is to add 10-20% thinner to the paint.
4. Test the paint: Test the thinned paint on a scrap piece of material to check the spray pattern and adjust the thinning ratio if necessary.
5. Strain the paint: Strain the thinned paint through a fine mesh strainer to remove any lumps or impurities that could clog the HVLP gun.
6. Fill the HVLP gun: Pour the thinned paint into the HVLP gun’s paint cup, taking care not to overfill it.
7. Spray the paint: Hold the HVLP gun approximately 6-8 inches away from the surface and use a sweeping motion to apply the thinned paint in thin, even coats. Overlap each pass by approximately 50%.

By following these steps, you can achieve a smooth and professional finish when spraying thinned acrylic paint with an HVLP gun.

It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific acrylic paint and HVLP gun you are using, as well as the thinner you choose.

Keep in mind that thinning the paint too much can cause it to run or drip, while not thinning it enough can cause it to clog the gun and produce an uneven finish.

How to spray latex paint with a hvlp gun?

Spraying latex paint with an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) gun can produce a smooth and even finish, but it requires some preparation and technique.

Here are the general steps you can follow:

• Choose the right paint: Latex paint is thicker than other types of paint, so you’ll need to choose a paint that’s specifically formulated for spraying. Look for a paint that’s labeled as “HVLP ready” or “airless sprayer ready.”
• Thin the paint: Even with an HVLP gun, you may need to thin the paint to achieve the right consistency for spraying. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to thin the paint, and test the consistency by spraying a small amount onto a scrap piece of wood or cardboard.
• Prepare your workspace: Cover any surfaces you don’t want to get paint on, and wear appropriate safety gear, including a respirator mask, goggles, and gloves.
• Adjust the gun settings: Before you begin spraying, adjust the HVLP gun settings to the appropriate settings for latex paint. This will typically involve adjusting the fluid flow and air pressure settings to achieve a fine mist of paint.
• Practice spraying: To get the hang of spraying, practice on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard. Hold the gun about 6-8 inches away from the surface you’re spraying, and move the gun in a steady back-and-forth motion, overlapping each pass slightly.
• Spray the paint: Once you’re comfortable with the technique, begin spraying the paint onto your project. Work in small sections, and use light, even coats to build up the desired coverage. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying additional coats.
• Clean the gun: After you’re finished spraying, clean the HVLP gun thoroughly with warm soapy water or a paint thinner recommended by the manufacturer.

Remember that the specifics of using an HVLP gun to spray latex paint may vary depending on the brand and model of the gun, so always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

How to thin oil based paint for hvlp spray gun?

To thin oil-based paint for an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray gun, you will need to follow a few steps:

1. Check the manufacturer’s instructions: Before you begin thinning your oil-based paint, check the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended thinning method and the appropriate thinning ratio. Different brands and types of paint may require different ratios of thinning.
2. Use the right type of thinner: Choose the appropriate type of paint thinner for your oil-based paint. Some common types of paint thinner for oil-based paints include mineral spirits, turpentine, and naphtha. Make sure to use the recommended type of thinner for your paint.
3. Mix the paint and thinner: Measure the amount of paint you need for your project and pour it into a mixing container. Slowly add the recommended amount of thinner to the paint, stirring constantly with a stir stick or mixing paddle. Start with a small amount of thinner and gradually add more until you reach the desired consistency for spraying.
4. Test the paint: Once you’ve mixed the paint and thinner, test it by spraying a small amount onto a test surface. If the paint is too thick, add more thinner. If it’s too thin, add more paint.
5. Adjust the spray gun settings: Adjust the spray gun settings to the appropriate settings for oil-based paint. This will typically involve adjusting the fluid flow and air pressure settings to achieve a fine mist of paint.
6. Practice spraying: To get the hang of spraying, practice on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard. Hold the gun about 6-8 inches away from the surface you’re spraying, and move the gun in a steady back-and-forth motion, overlapping each pass slightly.
7. Spray the paint: Once you’re comfortable with the technique, begin spraying the thinned oil-based paint onto your project. Work in small sections, and use light, even coats to build up the desired coverage. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying additional coats.

Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific paint and spray gun to achieve the best results.

How to use harbor freight hvlp spray gun?

Harbor Freight is a popular brand that offers a range of HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray guns for different types of projects.

Here’s a general guide on how to use a Harbor Freight HVLP spray gun:

• Choose the right spray gun: Harbor Freight offers different HVLP spray guns for different types of projects, so choose the spray gun that’s best suited for your project.
• Prepare your workspace: Cover any surfaces you don’t want to get paint on, and wear appropriate safety gear, including a respirator mask, goggles, and gloves.
• Choose the right paint: Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended type of paint and the appropriate thinning ratio. Different brands and types of paint may require different thinning ratios.
• Mix the paint and thinner: Measure the amount of paint you need for your project and pour it into a mixing container. Slowly add the recommended amount of thinner to the paint, stirring constantly with a stir stick or mixing paddle. Start with a small amount of thinner and gradually add more until you reach the desired consistency for spraying.
• Adjust the spray gun settings: Harbor Freight spray guns come with a range of adjustable settings, including the fluid flow, air pressure, and spray pattern. Adjust the settings to the appropriate settings for your paint and project.
• Practice spraying: To get the hang of spraying, practice on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard. Hold the gun about 6-8 inches away from the surface you’re spraying, and move the gun in a steady back-and-forth motion, overlapping each pass slightly.
• Spray the paint: Once you’re comfortable with the technique, begin spraying the paint onto your project. Work in small sections, and use light, even coats to build up the desired coverage. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying additional coats.
• Clean the spray gun: After you’re finished spraying, clean the Harbor Freight spray gun thoroughly with warm soapy water or a paint thinner recommended by the manufacturer.

Remember that the specifics of using a Harbor Freight HVLP spray gun may vary depending on the model and type of gun, so always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

How to use a wagner HVLP spray gun?

Here are some general steps to follow when using a Wagner HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray gun:

1. Choose the right spray gun: Wagner offers different models of HVLP spray guns, so choose a model that’s appropriate for your project.
2. Prepare your workspace: Cover any surfaces you don’t want to get paint on, and wear appropriate safety gear, including a respirator mask, goggles, and gloves.
3. Prepare the paint: Mix the paint according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Depending on the product, you may need to thin the paint with a recommended thinner.
4. Set up the spray gun: Attach the spray gun to the air hose, and adjust the fluid flow, air pressure, and spray pattern settings on your Wagner HVLP spray gun to the appropriate settings for your paint.
5. Test the spray gun: Before spraying your project, test the Wagner HVLP spray gun on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard to ensure that the settings are correct and the paint is the right consistency.
6. Spray the paint: Once you’re satisfied with the settings and consistency, begin spraying the paint onto your project. Hold the spray gun about 6-8 inches away from the surface and move the gun in a back-and-forth motion to apply an even coat of paint.
7. Apply additional coats (if necessary): Depending on the type of paint and the finish you want to achieve, you may need to apply additional coats of paint. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying additional coats.
8. Clean the spray gun: After you’re finished spraying, clean the Wagner HVLP spray gun thoroughly with warm soapy water or a paint thinner recommended by the manufacturer.

Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific Wagner HVLP spray gun and paint to achieve the best results.

FAQ’s of How to use an HVLP spray gun

Conclusion on How to use an HVLP spray gun

Here it is, I have explained each and every point which I practice in my projects while using an HVLP sprayer.

Hope this post of mine helped you in some way. If you have any suggestions or tips do comment below so that others can also get help and I also can increase my knowledge.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this blog. If you already own an HVLP spray gun, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start using it!

If, however, you want to learn more about these devices before buying one, keep an eye out for my upcoming HVLP spray gun reviews.

Where I’ll cover all the kits you need to know about. Happy Painting lads!