How to paint interior trim

We all thought about it. What if I could change the colour or texture of some of my interior parts? Well, unless you willing to spend a small fortune on pre-done interior components, you can do it yourself. The question is only if you are willing and up to the challenge.

I decided to put together this little walk through after looking around for options for changing the door handles on my Astra OPC. After seeing import parts that cost in the region of R500 or more per piece, I decided to look at some DIY alternatives. I then came across the Dupli-Color Textured Metallic colour spray range and decided to give the silver version a try, trying to match the mezzo chrome interior parts already in the car.

Firstly... you will need to remove the trim pieces from the car before you can spray them. You can spray them where they are, but masking and protecting the rest of the interior against over spray is more of a hassle than just removing the items.

The door of the OPC

Loosening the door handle trim

Removing the door handle trim

Once all is remove, take all your equipment to a nice place that has good ventilation. Take some old newspaper to work on. And your paint. I decided to use Dupli-Color's Textured Metallic Coating Spray-paint. You can use anything you like, as long as its suitable for interior use and on plastics. Depending on the trim surface, you might need some fine sanding paper to just "roughen" it up. Also, depending on the paint you use, a primer coat might be required. The stuff I used didn't need that.

The stuff all ready for use

Now apply the paint evenly using sideways motions and keeping the spray can at least a foot away from the surface being sprayed. Let the paint dry for at least 5-10 minutes before applying a second coat of paint. Two coats should be sufficient.

All sprayed and ready to dry

Let the trim pieces dry fully for at least 2-3 hours or longer if possible before re-installing them back in the interior of the car.

All nicely re-installed

Now that does look better