when to paint!

[Harquil]

I'm currently building a bureau and matching tv unit that I will be spraying with Morrells waterborne pigmented lacquer.

I've built the sides up and machined the rest of the internals ready to pop together. My question is, is it better/easier to glue up the outer shell and paint as they are all spray all pieces individually and then assemble afterwards.

Time isn't an issue to much but cant work out which way will work best and give the best finish.

 

[Droogs]

I normally mask of the joints and paint the internals then assemble and paint the outside IF the piece has no frame and panel constuction. Otherwise it is all painted before assembly.

 

[MikeG.]

One coat of finish before assembly is the basic plan. Vary from that according to circumstances. This way the glue squeeze out can be cleaned off easily without leaving a stain.