Thinning primer question

[NYSW F45]

Im having brain farts lately and I cannot remember how to thin floquil primer. Im going to be using a whole bottle at once (lots of projects getting primed). I have one whole bottle of floquil thinner. How much thinner should I be using to thin out the primer properly?

 

[Mark R.]

This isn't going to help you much regarding ratios, but like any paint, you only want to thin it as much as necessary in order to spray it on smoothly. Not enough thinner and it will not flow onto the model smooth and even and leave a rough texture. Too much thinner, and it isn't going to cover very well.

All paints are going to be different - and even identical paints are going to be different based on how old the bottle is. A brand new bottle will no doubt be thinner than a half full bottle that has been exposed to air.

Airbrushes themselves will also make a difference. I have one airbrush that I can use latex paint right out of the can (for scenery - I don't paint engines with latex paint ! LOL), my other airbrush won't even draw it up the tube ! - obviously that's an extreme, but there are differences.

Start with your thinner a bit on the light side - if you're using the whole bottle, it's easier to add more thinner than take it out !


Mark.

 

[wheeler1963]

Steve, 70% primer, 30% thinner. light even coats.

 

[NYSW F45]

Ok, 70/30. Im trying to visualize this in my head if the whole jar of primer is 70 percent how much thinner will be 30 percent?

 

[wheeler1963]

1/3rd of the thinner is close enough

 

[Motley]

Yes it doesn't have to be perfect percentages. I usually just eyeball it.

 

[Broken Images]

For thinning your primer or paints it's best to go 3 to 1. Experience in body shops taught me that. Your paint should be the consistency of milk. Don't forget to wear your respirator.