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DIY Painting a Booth Outdoors

Whether you use your booth once or keep it for years, you'll enjoy the benefits of a quality paint job. When you decide to paint a booth, consider what type of paint you'd like to use. Oil-based primers have stronger adhesive qualities and are better at blocking stains, but they tend to have a stronger paint smell. Oil-based paint tends to be more durable and easier to clean. On the other hand, latex paint offers more variety of textures; there is a wider range of sheens, including flat, semi-gloss and oil-based enamel.

Things You'll Need

  • 10 sheets of newspaper
  • Sheet of 100-grit sandpaper
  • Sheet of 220-grit sandpaper
  • Can of primer
  • Can of paint
  • Paintbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a layer of newspaper underneath and a few feet out from where you will be painting the booth. Even though you are painting outside, this will help avoid unsightly temporary paint stains on your driveway or sidewalk area.

    • 2

      If the surface of the booth is sleek or glossy, sand the surface with 100-grit sandpaper until the texture is rougher. This will help the paint adhere to the surface of the booth. If the surface of the booth is unfinished wood or has a rougher texture, you do not need to sand the surface.

    • 3

      Wipe down the booth with a damp rag or mineral spirits to remove any loose particles. If there is dust or dirt on the booth when you begin painting, the paint job may come out uneven and the paint will be more likely to peel.

    • 4

      Prime the surface of the booth. This will prevent any stains from showing through the layers of paint. Let the primer dry for at least an hour before proceeding,

    • 5

      Sand the surface gently with 220-grit sandpaper after primer is applied. This will ensure the best possible paint adhesion. Wipe the surface with cloth to remove any loose particles or dust.

    • 6

      Start painting at the top of the booth downward with a paint that matches the primer. By painting from the top down, you can smooth drips in the paint that might emerge. Let the first coat of paint dry for at least an hour.

    • 7

      Apply a second or third coat if needed. After painting is complete, wait at least 24 hours before moving the booth or placing anything on the booth.