How to Thin Latex Paint for HVLP Sprayer
If you’ve decided to use everyday wall paint for your next furniture project, spraying it can give you a smooth and professional finish. However, you’ll need to thin it first. So, here’s how to thin latex paint for HVLP sprayer!
We’ll guide you on how to use a paint sprayer on furniture with wall coating, not only thinning but also other important tips and tricks you should know. Let’s get started!
Low VOC paint is a popular choice because it’s easy to find and budget friendly. You can apply it in various ways, but putting it in an HVLP gun can give you the smoothest finish.
But things can get a little tricky if you don’t know what you’re doing. That’s where thinning comes in. Since house paint is thick, you need to water it down so you can handle it better and create an even finish.
Thinning the waterbased coating makes the process smoother and helps prevent any clogging. This issue can be especially common with HVLP systems, as they have smaller nozzles that can easily get clogged.
But don’t worry. Adding water is a simple task. Keep reading to see how a little water can help you get that smooth finish.
What to Use to Thin Latex
Since it’s waterbased, you just need water. Yes, water! It’s easily accessible and inexpensive, so you don’t have to worry about buying special products. For oil based, you would need to use chemical thinners.
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How to Thin Latex Paint for HVLP Sprayer
Now, let’s break down the steps. Start by adding small amounts of water to your wall paint and mixing thoroughly. Add a little at a time so you don’t water it down too much. You don’t want it runny that it drips off your furniture.
For a more accurate measurement, you can use a viscosity cup. This cup usually comes with your HVLP gun, but you can purchase one online if you don’t have one. Dip the cup into your mixture and time how long it takes for the liquid to run out of the bottom.
We recommend a consistency of 35 seconds, but between 25-40 seconds should be good. If it takes longer than 40 seconds, add more water, and if it runs out too quickly, add more paint.
When you’ve got the right consistency, strain it through a filter to remove any lumps. This helps filter out any rust or dried coating that might get into the sprayer and cause a clog.
Making Chalk Paint with Latex
We have to say, we don’t really recommend using plain wall paint for furniture. It’s not that it won’t work, but you might not get the most durable finish, and it may not adhere well to furniture surfaces. But you can turn it into a chalk based finish!
Chalk style coating adheres better to furniture, and it dries with a matte finish, which is great for that rustic, farmhouse look. Plus, it’s easy to distress if you want a more vintage or shabby chic style.
Here’s the easiest way to make it: mix about 5 tablespoons of calcium carbonate powder with a little water, then add it to a cup of latex paint. Check out the homemade chalk paint recipe here for more detailed instructions.
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Other best chalk paint recipes use common household ingredients like Plaster of Paris or baking soda. For Plaster of Paris, substitute it for the calcium carbonate powder in the above recipe. But this version made with Plaster of Paris tends to dry faster, so you’ll have to work quickly.
How to Thin Chalk Paint
Chalk style coating is water based and thick, so you’ll still use water to dilute it and strain it through a filter as you pour it into your container.
Best HVLP Sprayer for Latex Paint
You’ll want to invest in a good one, and we have just the recommendations for you! The best one depends on your budget and needs.
If you don’t want to break the bank but still want a reliable option, the Wagner FLEXiO 3000 is great. It can handle thicker coatings without clogging, but we still recommend watering them down for smooth results. It does not have a viscosity cup included. Check out our Wagner FLEXiO 3000 review to learn more about this tool.
For a more budget friendly option, the Homeright Super Finish Max is your next best bet. It comes with multiple tips and air caps to control the spray pattern and flow. You’ll still need to thin with water so you don’t get a bumpy and splattery finish. We also have a HomeRight Super Finish Max paint sprayer review here.
You can also consider the Fuji Q4 Platinum if you’re a professional or want the best. It can apply thicker coatings without much thinning, and it’s built to last with its all-metal construction. However, it comes at a high price point and may be too advanced for beginners. Read our honest review and thoughts on the Fuji Q4 paint sprayer here!
We review more of their features and pros and cons in this best latex paint sprayer post, so check it out! And here are the best HVLP paint sprayers for furniture if you need more options.
So that’s everything you need to know about how to thin latex paint for HVLP sprayer! You can apply plain latex or turn it into chalk paint – either way, remember to dilute it with water so it goes on smoothly and gives you flawless results.
How to Thin Latex Paint for HVLP Sprayer
Learn how to thin latex paint for HVLP sprayer and create a smooth, professional finish on your furniture, and with helpful tips and tricks for the best results.
Materials
- Latex Paint
- Water
- Filter
Tools
- Paint Sprayer
- Viscosity Cup
Instructions
- Start by gradually adding small amounts of water to your paint, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Be careful not to over-thin, as the mixture should not be runny or prone to dripping.
- Next, use a viscosity cup to check the consistency of the paint. Dip the cup into the mixture, and time how long it takes for the liquid to flow out of the bottom.
- After timing, aim for a flow rate of around 35 seconds, with an acceptable range between 25–40 seconds. If it’s too slow, add more water, and if it’s too fast, add more paint.
- Finally, strain the paint through a filter to remove lumps, rust, or dried coating. It will help the sprayer remains clog free and functions smoothly.
Recommended Products
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More Paint Sprayer Tips
- How to Use a Paint Sprayer Indoors
- Can a Beginner Use a Paint Sprayer
- Paint Spray Gun For Beginners
- How to Use Wagner FLEXiO 595 Paint Sprayer
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