Starting with HVLP spraying might seem daunting, but with a bit of practice, you’ll find it to be a rewarding skill. The control and quality it offers can transform your projects, giving them a professional touch. Remember, every expert was once a beginner—take your time, experiment, and enjoy the process!

Feel free to reach out on our contact form if you have specific questions or need personalized recommendations for your HVLP setup. Happy spraying!

HVLP stands for High Volume, Low Pressure. This technology uses a high volume of air at low pressure to atomize paint (or other liquids) into a fine mist, resulting in: 

• Reduced Overspray:  More paint lands on your project, less in the air.
• Smooth Finishes:  Ideal for achieving a professional look on various surfaces.
• Efficient Use of Materials:  Less paint waste compared to traditional methods. 

Unlike traditional airless sprayers that blast material at high pressure (and often waste more paint), or brushes and rollers that can leave streaks or texture behind, HVLP provides smooth, even coverage with a soft touch. It’s especially well-suited for cabinetry, furniture, trim work, instruments, doors, and other fine-finish projects where precision and finish quality matter. Whether you’re a DIYer upgrading your kitchen cabinets or a professional spraying stain on hardwood, HVLP gives you the control to make it look great.

Familiarize yourself with these common terms:

• Air Cap:  Directs airflow and shapes the spray pattern.
• Fluid Nozzle:  Controls the amount of paint released.
• Needle:  Works with the nozzle to regulate paint flow.
• Fan Control:  Adjusts the width of the spray pattern.
• Fluid Control:  Manages the volume of paint sprayed.

An HVLP setup typically includes:

1. Turbine:  Generates the airflow needed for spraying. This unit is powered by AC wall power and is generally placed a ways away from the spray area.
2. Hose:  Connects the turbine to the spray gun, delivering air. Depending on the need, a more flexible whip hose is used between the spray gun and longer hose in order to ensure unencumbered movement when spraying.
3. Spray Gun:  Mixes air and paint to create the spray pattern. The spray gun has one or two settings to adjust pattern and rate, as well as replaceable air caps, to ensure the proper finish.
4. Paint Cup:  Holds the paint; can be gravity-fed (top-mounted) or siphon-fed (bottom-mounted).  

Some systems may also include accessories like air control valves, quick release, spray gun stands, and filters to enhance performance.

• Practice First:  Test your spray on a scrap piece to get a feel for the gun’s operation.
• Maintain Proper Distance:  Keep the spray gun 6–8 inches away from the surface.
• Consistent Movement:  Move the gun steadily and overlap each pass by about 50% for even coverage.
• Thin Your Paint:  Depending on the paint type, you may need to thin it for optimal spraying.
• Clean Thoroughly:  After each use, clean the spray gun to prevent clogs and ensure longevity.