Do I need to sand this?

[nessness]

I found a metal cabinet for free today, which is awesome because my wood one broke in our move. It's white, I'm guessing enamel? I'm planning to spray paint it; do I need to sand it first? I've never painted metal before.

[kaylie]

I would go with no, but make sure whatever spray paint you get is intended for use on metal.

[Deleted]

Yes, sanding it will make the paint adhere to the surface. You don't need to sand it to remove the exisiting paint, just scuff it up a little.

[magdala]

Before you sand and paint, wash it well in case there is something on the metal that will interfere with painting.

[sierramist03]

I'd just use a primer rather than sanding

[nessness]

Thanks guys!

[TBM]

Mar 9, 2013 12:09:55 GMT -5 sierramist03 said:

I'd just use a primer rather than sanding

Primer is not a substitute for sanding.  I know a lot of primers say 'no sanding required', but it doesn't mean that taking the extra time to sand lightly won't help it adhere that much better and make the final product more durable.

[nessness]

Read the directions on the spray paint today and apparently you're only supposed to use it when it's above 65 degrees? Guess that project won't happen today.

[pitterwoo]

Mar 9, 2013 15:11:01 GMT -5 TBM said:

Mar 9, 2013 12:09:55 GMT -5 sierramist03 said:

I'd just use a primer rather than sanding

Primer is not a substitute for sanding.  I know a lot of primers say 'no sanding required', but it doesn't mean that taking the extra time to sand lightly won't help it adhere that much better and make the final product more durable.

ditto this.  I would sand lightly and prime and maybe also do a clear finish coat.