Help with spray paint

[Karl Knoernschild]

I am working on a small project right now where a few of the pieces are painted. I'm using spray paint (the canned variety) but I'm having trouble getting a good finish.

I haven't used spray paint much, so bear with me. When I try putting on multiple thin coats, I end up with a rough, sandy-feeling surface that never seems to smooth out. If I put on thicker coats, the paint ends up being rubbery and delicate. What am I doing wrong? Is it possible to get a smooth, durable painted surface using canned spray paint?

[Tim Sproul]

When I try putting on multiple thin coats, I end up with a rough, sandy-feeling surface that never seems to smooth out. If I put on thicker coats, the paint ends up being rubbery and delicate. What am I doing wrong?

Try holding the can closer to the work and leave a thin coat. The rough, sandy texture is often caused by holding the spray can or spray gun too far from the surface.