If you slap a coat of paint over bare cardboard tubing, peeling is likely to occur. Though cardboard is actually just thick paper, when it comes to painting, it is best treated as bare wood. Treat the tubing with a primer base that will promote better adhesion and a longer lasting final finish. Apply a particular paint based on your expectations for the tubing, or you could face durability issues. Add the base undercoat and painted topcoat using a soft-bristled brush, or you may see bristle marks in the finish.
Instructions
1. Wipe the cardboard tubing down with a sticky tack cloth to remove any dust or loose particles that could prevent the primer from bonding.
2. Tape over any surfaces on or adjacent to the tubing if you'd like them kept free from primer and paint.
3. Position canvas drop cloths beneath the cardboard to prevent drips from staining underlying flooring.
4. Brush a coat of latex primer onto the cardboard tubing, using a 2- to 3-inch paintbrush. Nylon paintbrushes tend to leave bristle marks; opt for a polyester brush that will provide a smooth, professional-looking appearance. Let the tubing dry for two hours.
5. Wash the paintbrush three times under a running tap.
6. Brush a coat of paint onto the cardboard tubing, using the 2- to 3-inch paintbrush. Latex paint is fine for cardboard tubing safe from duress; however, it may not remain resilient on tubing that is subject to handling. For the most durable finish, use an acrylic enamel.
