SLAPPING ON PAINT

Anyone who can spray paint on sheet metal is a magician to me. I've just never been really good at it. I have taken classes, read books and devoured articles on how to paint, but every time I lay down a coat of red or white or blue, I'm getting the sandpaper out to remove it and start all over. I've been trying to fix an old metal cabinet for my shop. I did a pretty good job fixing the rust, but as soon as the paint left the can. it was time to start redoing it. It's a good thing I know how to write about cars, because I could never make money painting them. All of you who can paint should give yourself a slap on the back. And if you want to give me a tip or two, that would be great.