Choose a well-ventilated area
Cover nearby surfaces with drop cloths or newspaper
Clean the item thoroughly
Remove rust, grease, dust, and loose paint
Sand the surface if needed
Shake the spray paint can well
Test the spray on scrap material
Hold the can 6 to 12 inches from the surface
Spray in light, even coats
Move the can steadily while spraying
Overlap each pass slightly
Let each coat dry before applying the next
Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat
Keep the can moving to avoid drips
Allow the final coat to dry completely
Apply a clear coat if needed
Clean the nozzle after use
Store the can according to the label instructions