DIYbanter - View Single Post - Suggestions for best school for spray finishing

blueman

"Mike Marlow" writes:
wrote:

I'm looking for classes in spray finishing. Basically I would like to
learn to set up the gun and proper techniques to spray.
Troubleshooting problems would be nice too. The ideal class would
have plenty of hands on lab time...

Well, for what you're looking to learn, you don't really need a class
structure like you've described. You could hook up with anybody that uses a
paint gun - a body man, a woodworker, etc., and in one hour you could learn
everything you need to know about setting up a gun, as well as the basics of
troubleshooting common problems. If you're a slow learner - make that two
hours. After that, it's all about practice. Another hour or two with
someone who knows how to use a gun and you can master the basics of
shooting. I understand your desire for lab time as you expressed it, but
you'll get as much from an hour or two with someone who can paint, as you
will from the kind of lab time you've suggested.

Do some digging through the archives in this group for painting tips. Both
Robert (nailshooter) and I have posted a lot of "how-to" information here
that I think you would find valuable. For a fee, I'm sure Swingman will
send you an autographed copy of his soon-to-be-released hardbound collection
of these posts. Of course, that stuff makes a good - and quite
comprehensive, starting point, but this forum serves well to continue from
there.

All good advice. I too am interested in picking up spray finishing but
more as a hobbyist and I can't afford the time or $$$ to go to school
for this.

Indeed, your approach makes a lot of sense for my needs.
First, is there anybody here in the Boston area who is willing to let me
"observe" in exchange for Beers or donuts?

Second, are you aware of any good web videos and/or howtos (in addition
to the posts you reference) that might be good for instruction?

Books would be helpful too, but typically I find I don't have the
time/patience to wade through an entire book and find videos more
helpful at least at the intro level...