Wireless Set No. 52 Canadian - Project

[Chris Suslowicz]

Not wishing to ruin your day any further, but are you using the correct type of paint? "Varsol" and "Mineral Spirits" are an oil-based (paraffin/turpentine substitute) paint - OK for wood where it can soak in and it's a rough surface anyway, but probably not for metal.

I'd be inclined to try a cellulose-based paint and thinner combination, as used on machinery and vehicles - it's fast-drying and you can use multiple thin coats to build up the thickness if required.

I think the wrinkle/sandpaper effect is due to the slow evaporation of the solvent and consequent small bubble formation as the paint dries.

Best regards,
Chris.
(I have zero painting experience but have watched the production line at Perkins Engines (years ago: mid-1980s) where the completed engine (mounted on a "J Hook") passed in front of a "water wall" to catch the overspray and was spray-painted blue by the operator in under a minute!)