Painting a Gold Crown
Hi, David.
The application method depends primarily on the type of paint you choose. I think the GC I's and II's were finished with lacquer. Lacquer is a very good finish system, but can't be applied by any method other than spray.
Lacquer sanding sealer, which is the undercoater or primer, sands very easily and provides a very smooth surface for the finish coats. All coats of lacquer dissolve into the previous coat and ultimately, the finish is "one" thick coat as opposed to layers of coats.
Lacquer dries to the touch in a minute or less, thus, minimizing the threat of dust or hair settling on it and ruining the finish.
Oil based enamel paints are suitable, but are slow dry. They are vulnerable to dust and fingerprints for 8 hours or more. Oil based enamel can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed. The primers are not as easy to sand as lacquers.
The smoothness and quality of any finish system is dependent upon many factors. Dust-free environment, temperature, humidity, and proper viscosity are the big four.
Most importantly.....regardless of what any salesman may try to tell you, do not use water based latex or acrylic paints. Although latex and acrylic paints are easy to use, they are virtually impossible to touch up or repair. Many otherwise great Gold Crowns have been ruined by DIY types and a can of latex paint.
One more thing....in Texas, humidity in the air will condense in your air lines and compressor. So, if you opt for spraying, you absolutely must have an inline moisture remover.
Good luck with your project.:thumbup:
Joe
