Painting amateur

[half-wit]

I just purchased a Vendo and had a couple questions.  How difficult is it to repaint this myself?  Should I try to air painting or using a brush?  Last but not least, where can I get some decals for this?

[joesquid]

I guess the answer to your questions depends on what you want for a finished product.  If you want a good looking machine, spray it.  It takes time and attention to detail (not to mention equipment to properly sand, prime, and paint) so it's costly in the way of time and funds, unless you have your own paint shop:p

Decals can be found at a variety of places, most listed on the home page of this website (look for the link to "parts suppliers".  My personal favorite is Steve Ebner with Funtronics.  He has a HUGE selection and is easy to deal with.  He doesn't have a website but is quick to answer the phone.

[half-wit]

Thanks Joe.  I already have an air compressor and I picked up an HVLP spray gun.  I was just wondering how difficult it is.  People keep telling me that it's not as easy as one would think.  I don't doubt that, but spraying would achieve a better look and that is what I am looking for.  The other problem is that I don't have my own paint shop, obviously.  Any suggestions on doing this somewhat in a garage or shed.

You can paint in your garage, but clean up any dust and debris, cover up anything you don't want overspray on and, above all, get a good respirator. Make sure your water heater as well as other electrical items, if located in the garage, are turned off during spraying. Shooting is tricky, but prep work (body work and primer) is the key to a nice job. '>

[loman4ec]

It is all in the prep work. Your paint can only look as good as the surface that you are laying it on. Make sure that all old nicks and dents are filled and the entire machine is sanded smooth. Make sure that there is no greese or dirt anywhere on the machine. I recomend using paint stripper to remove all of the paint. then do your body work. Painting in a garage is tough but not impossible. Just try to keep the bugs and dirt out. Good word of advice if you are painting in a garage never open the garage door while the paint is wet.

You may want to try spraying the floor down with water just prior to painting, this will keep the dust from kicking up when you're spraying the machine. This is a common practise in professional body shops and paint shops in the booth.
 I agree with Loman4ec, the preparation is critical to a good paint job. Try to use products from the same manufacturer (from primers to finish coat) as they are designed to react with each other. Using mixed brands can lead to problems with chemical reaction and have an adverse effect on the finish.

 I know this may sound simple, but make sure you follow the directions for mixing the paint, Exactly as the manufacture has listed. Dupont paints are very easy to work with and have simple directions for mixing.