How to Thin Latex Paint for HVLP Sprayer
If you’ve decided to use latex paint for your next furniture painting project, spraying it with a sprayer can give you a smooth and professional finish. However, you’ll need to thin the paint 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 latex paint, not only thinning but also other important tips and tricks you should know. Let’s get started!
Latex paint for furniture is a popular choice among DIYers because it’s easy to find and budget friendly. You can apply it in various ways, but spraying it using a paint sprayer can give you the smoothest finish.
But when using latex in a paint sprayer, things can get a little tricky. That’s where thinning comes in. Since latex paint is thick, you need to thin it so the sprayer can handle and spray it evenly.
Thinning latex paint makes the spraying process smoother and helps prevent any clogging. This issue can be especially common with HVLP sprayers, as they have smaller nozzles that can easily get clogged.
But don’t worry, thinning latex paint is a simple task. Keep reading to learn how to thin latex paint for an HVLP sprayer and see how easy it is!
What to Use to Thin Latex Paint
Latex paint is water based, so you just need water to thin it. Yes, water! For other paints, like oil based paints, you would need to use chemical thinners, but water is the way to go for latex paint. It’s easily accessible and inexpensive, so you don’t have to worry about buying special products just for thinning.
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How to Thin Latex Paint with Water
Now let’s break down the steps on how to thin latex paint for your HVLP sprayer with water. Start by adding small amounts of water to your paint and mixing thoroughly. Add a little at a time so you don’t thin the paint too much – if it becomes too thin, you’ll have to add more paint and start over.
For a more accurate measurement, you can use a viscosity cup. This cup usually comes with your paint sprayer, but you can purchase one online if you don’t have one. Dip the cup into your paint and time how long it takes for the paint 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 your paint through a filter to remove any lumps. And that’s how to thin latex paint for an HVLP sprayer!
Making Chalk Paint with Latex Paint
We have to say, we don’t really recommend using plain latex 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 latex paint into chalk paint!
Chalk paint adheres better to furniture than latex paint, 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.
The easiest way to make chalk paint with latex paint is by mixing it with calcium carbonate powder. Mix about 5 tablespoons of calcium carbonate powder with a little water, then add it to a cup of latex paint. Here’s the homemade chalk paint recipe for more detailed instructions.
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 chalk paint made with Plaster of Paris tends to dry faster, so you’ll have to work quickly.
How to Thin Chalk Paint
Thinning latex paint turned chalk paint is similar to thinning plain latex paint. Chalk paint is water based and thick, so use water to thin it and strain it through a filter as you pour it into your sprayer.
Best HVLP Sprayer for Latex Paint
If you’re set on using latex paint with an HVLP sprayer, you’ll want to invest in a good one, and we have just the recommendations for you! The best HVLP sprayer for latex paint depends on your budget and needs.
If you don’t want to break the bank but still want a reliable sprayer, the Wagner FLEXiO 3000 is a great option. It can handle thicker paints without clogging, but we recommend thinning latex paint 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 latex paint 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 painter or want the best. It can spray thicker paints 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 the features and pros and cons of these sprayers 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 an HVLP sprayer! You can spray plain latex paint or turn it into chalk paint – either way, remember to thin the paint so you can spray it smoothly and get flawless results.
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