I'm in the process of painting a few pieces of my interior. I've read the FAQ and searched through the boards for all info that could possibly help me. However there is one thing I am still uncertain about; whether to primer ot just sand and paint.

The FAQ says it's optional and I've read that most people primer before painting. Also, when I went to pick up my paint from a local body shop, they told me not to primer, just sand and paint. I can go either way, just going with what looks best. Basically what I'm asking for are the differences in using primer and not using it. Any help is appreciated.

Sorry if this info is posted somewhere else, I was unable to find it.

kind of up to you, primer is good for getting out little scratches and stuff so they dont show through the paint and also helps some paints stick to the plastic, but if the surface your painting is already smooth, krylon fusion i think it is, is supposed to work well on plastics without a primer

should have added this last post, but personaly i suggest using primer

I'm using automotive paint that is the exact same color as my car. Not using any spray can crap.

well if they told you specificly not to primer i wouldnt. using primer can change the color of the finished paint slightly, such as using a white primer can make it slightly lighter than using a darker primer, but if they said not to i wouldnt

Well, the paint I got was a single stage base clear type paint. Meaning, it already has the clear added to it. The color is that purdy metallic blue that was/is available on the cavalier/cobalts.

When in doubt test it out try a small are on the part you want to paint without primer let it dry see if thats the look your going for and try scraping it of with your nail to see if it will rub off if not then giver! most painters will spray a test sheet before using a new paint or gun.


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