DIY Doctor UK DIY Forums

Hello all,

I have just painted some kitchen units for my camper van in gloss paint. The finish is currently a slight orange peel effect (I used a foam roller) but what I would prefer is a smooth as glass finish. Can anybody recommend how I can achieve this? I'm initally thinking of using varying grades of wet and dry paper followed by a cutting paste as is used for auto paint finishing (t-cut type of thing). Does this sound right or is there a better way?

Also, is it possible/wise/necessary to spray lacquer over the top of gloss?

Your roller is the problem. If its easier for you to use to prevent runners then once you have applied the gloss use a brush to (lay off) the paint. T-cut will do nothing apart from make a mess. Its not commercial car paint you have.

the only way to get a glass-like finish with gloss paint is to use:

good quality paint - i'd recommend dulux trade liquid gloss
a brush, NOT a roller
good brushing technique which only comes with practice.

rollers are ok and a nifty shortcut in certain applications, but will not give as good a finish as a brush.

also if you are going to use a roller, use flocked not foam - air bubbles from the foam will be left in the paint.