How to Spray Paint a Nerf Gun: 12 Steps
Step 1: Gather the supplies
To begin spray painting your Nerf gun, you will need the following supplies:
– A Nerf gun
– Screwdriver (to disassemble the gun)
– Fine grit sandpaper
– Spray paint primer
– Spray paint in your desired color(s)
– Clear protective enamel spray (optional)
– Painter’s tape or masking tape
– Newspaper or cardboard (to protect your workspace)
– Gloves and safety goggles (optional, but recommended)
Step 2: Disassemble the Nerf gun
Using a screwdriver, carefully disassemble your Nerf gun. Ensure you keep track of all the parts as well as their placements so that you can easily reassemble it later.
Step 3: Sand the surfaces
With a piece of fine grit sandpaper, lightly scuff the plastic surfaces of the gun. This will help remove any shiny finish and provide better adhesion for the primer and paint.
Step 4: Clean and dry all parts
After sanding, clean off any dust, dirt, or debris from the Nerf gun using soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Allow everything to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Apply painter’s tape
Using painter’s tape or masking tape, carefully mask off any areas that you do not want to be painted, such as moving parts and logos.
Step 6: Setup your workspace
Choose a well-ventilated area to work in and lay down newspaper or cardboard to protect your workspace from paint overspray.
Step 7: Apply primer
Shake your spray paint primer well and apply a thin and even coat over all of the Nerf gun’s surfaces. Let it dry for at least an hour, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 8: Apply spray paint
Shake your chosen spray paint color(s) thoroughly. Then, apply thin and even coats, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next one. Continue applying coats until you achieve the desired coverage and color intensity.
Step 9: Apply clear protective enamel (optional)
If you want to add an extra layer of protection for your paint job, apply a clear protective enamel spray after your final coat of colored paint has dried.
Step 10: Allow paint to dry
Wait for the paint to fully dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually at least 24 hours.
Step 11: Remove painter’s tape
Carefully remove the painter’s tape from the Nerf gun, making sure not to damage or peel any of the fresh paint.
Step 12: Reassemble your Nerf gun
Using your screwdriver, reassemble your Nerf gun according to its original design. Ensure all parts are secured, and your customized Nerf gun is ready for action!