Using a min HVLP Paasche detail spray gun with a 0.8 tip. Guns directions say 30-45 psi. I’m using a 6 gallon pancake compressor to paint a smaller area. Compressor has no problem feeding gun air because the area is small. I’m using a moisture trap as well.

Paint will be automotive urethane paint & 3k clear that is mixed 4:1:1 paint: hardener: reducer per paint suppliers directions.

I’m trying to find the best way to minimize orange peel. I get spray it wet. Some people say spray initial coat light - some people say normal. Some people say orange peel is from paint hitting panel dry - turn air pressure down. Some say it’s from poor atomization - turn air pressure up. Some say do something called a flow coat which seems just like keeping a wet edge to me.

In the fun you can adjust fan, fluid volume, & how far you pull back the trigger. I’m just practicing now & not really coming up with any way to avoid orange peel other than spray it as wet as possible without runs. Is there a certain way pressure, fan, fluid volume should be set to best minimize orange peel for this type of mini gun? Is it just my equipment isn’t good enough?

I’m able to sand & compound most of it out - but obviously that isn’t ideal. How much does brand of clear matter? It saw someone said high solid clears are worse for orange peel. This is regular clear. Temperature is about 65 degrees. Would adding a little more reduced help?