How to Paint Automotive Interiors
When a car's interior fades, the whole vehicle looks and feels old. Reupholstering is expensive, and finding replacement seats that match can be harder than it sounds. In addition, there is often the headliner to consider. Believe it or not, painting the interior of the car is an option that may solve all of the problems. The key is to use to correct type of paint and to apply it with a thin coating.
Items Needed:
- vinyl and fabric paint
- a paper plate
- dish soap
- warm water
- coarse sponge
- clean, dry towels
- painter's tape
- plastic drop cloth
- scissors
- facial mask or respirator
- Select the color of vinyl and fabric paint that will be used to paint the interior. Test it on a paper plate. When it is dry, check the color to make sure it is the correct shade for the inside of the car.
- Prepare the inside of the car by washing everything completely with dish soap, warm water and a coarse sponge to remove any dirt and grime. Dry as much surface area as possible with clean, dry towels. Allow the car interior to dry completely before proceeding with the paint.
- Roll the car windows down. Mask off any parts of the interior with painter's tape that will not be painted. Cut the plastic drop cloth with scissors to make a shield to cover the larger areas, such as the rear window. Secure the plastic with painter's tape.
- Put on facial mask or respirator. A respirator is preferable as it will filter out more of the paint fumes and chemicals.
- Read the directions on the can of vinyl and fabric paint before applying.
- Shake paint can vigorously to mix the paint.
- Spray the interior where paint is wanted. Keep the nozzle of the can at least 8 inches away from the fabric or vinyl as it is being applied. Use a thin coating, as a heavier one may crack or peel after it dries.
- Remove the painter's tape while the paint is still a little tacky. This will keep it from pulling off any of the paint with it when it is removed. Allow the paint to dry for a minimum of eight hours with the windows down.