Spray painting helmet

[TSCGCobra043]

So I'm spray painting my helmet (scout helmet) but I've run into a problem, under the brim, just over the visor, the paint will come out almost like sandpaper. I can't sand it very well due to the spaces I need to sand being very small areas. Any ideas on how to get in those tight spots?

 

[RedGhost]

Tough situation. I'm assuming your paint is chipping? Are you using a primer? A good primer goes a long way. Use multiple coats if needed. If you're using primer but the areas are still too smooth (for example what's after resin) and they're tight spaces I can suggest using needle files. They're really tiny files that work wonders in hard to reach spaces and leave up a nice rough surface for paint to adhere to. Good luck with your helmet! I'd love to see some pictures.

 

[TSCGCobra043]

Tough situation. I'm assuming your paint is chipping? Are you using a primer? A good primer goes a long way. Use multiple coats if needed. If you're using primer but the areas are still too smooth (for example what's after resin) and they're tight spaces I can suggest using needle files. They're really tiny files that work wonders in hard to reach spaces and leave up a nice rough surface for paint to adhere to. Good luck with your helmet! I'd love to see some pictures.

thanks for the idea I'll post some pictures later when I get the chance

 

[Jme]

The files are a good idea.

You could also wrap a piece of sandpaper around a pencil to get in the small spaces.

If you have a dremel, that could work too, just watch the speed and have a steady hand.

 

[Dirtdives2424]

You could also use a nail file. Those are quite abrasive. And since most of them are basically popsicle stick cores.....you can cut the tip smaller to fit into the smallest of places.

 

[Liamthedevastator]

Another point to consider when painting (anything) with spray paint is that your first coat should be VERY light. The intent is to leave an almost "sand-papery" finish (small spots of paint) to which the next coat can adhere to. Using a primer is 100% necessary for longevity and in most cases can make or break a rattlecan paintjob. Good luck moving forwards.

 

[TurboCharizard]

It's also a possibility of funky chemistry going on since TSCGCobra043 never stated what the base material of the helmet is. Paint is a fickle mistress and adding in aerosol makes it even worse for possibility of funny stuff. If it's an EVA foam or 3D printed helmet it's probably just a matter of the wrong type of primer or insufficient primer. If it's a cast there could be residual mould release reacting with the paint and the helmet just needs a scrub with a bit of soapy water and a stiff brush. If it's a resin cast and it turns paint finishes tacky and gross, it's a Reaper Miniatures Bones piece (I don't know what plastics they use but man do they hate spray priming).

If you have some details about what you have for a helmet it might help in figuring out the issue.

 

[TSCGCobra043]

I linked two photos. I've been working on the problem areas with some of the previous advice given so it's not as bad currently