Runs and Sags in Enamel (How to Avoid Them + How to Fix Them)
Runs happen when the paint film is too wet and too heavy.
It’s annoying, but not the end of the world.
Why runs happen
Most common reasons:
paint thinned too much
too heavy a coat
spraying too close
moving too slowly
panel too cold (paint doesn’t “flash” properly)
How to avoid runs
✅ Spray distance
Keep a consistent distance and overlap.
✅ Build the finish
Do multiple lighter coats rather than trying to “glass it” in one go.
✅ Watch your edges
Edges and swage lines catch extra paint and run first.
✅ Don’t chase perfection in one coat
Enamel looks better when it has time to level.
How to fix runs (the safe way)
Step 1: Let it dry properly
Don’t touch it wet.
You’ll only make it worse.
Step 2: Flat it back
Once it’s hard enough:
Use wet sanding carefully
Focus on the high spot of the run first
Feather the edges gently
Step 3: Polish it back
Once the run is level, machine polish or compound by hand to restore gloss.
Quick tip
If your sandpaper clogs instantly, the paint is too soft – leave it longer.
