Paint Question

[PCB_Master]

I have been wanting to paint my 1st gen genny, but have some questions.

1. If you use spraypaint that is designed for plastic, do you still have to sand the plastic?

2. If I do have to sand, what grit should I use?

3. How long will it last?

4. Do I need to add a "clear coat"?

Thanks!

[jeffro11]

Hi there, I'm in the process of doing mine as well!


1. If you want the original texture, no, do not sand.

2. If you do sand youll want to use a varying degree of wet/dry sandpaper. start with a 400 grit, move up to a 800, then finally a 1500 (wetsand)

3. Refer to point 4

4. Yes you should put a clear on the paint. It will help protect the paint for years to come. While the Krylon Fusion paint is pretty strong by itself. Nothing can top a few coats of clear. Also keep in mind there are different clears. Gloss, Satin etc etc.

[Chi-kitory]

Thanks jeff, i was wondering the same thing. I'll keep your method in mind.

[PCB_Master]

Thanks Jeff!

[bobzee]

Another option is to use vinyl dye. This soaks into the plastic, so it won't fill in scratches like paint does.

It can be more expensive than paint, and it requires more work if you want to make a significant colour change, but I think it gives a better finish than paint.

VHT Vinyl Dye (http://www.vhtpaint.com/vinyldye.html) - I used Black Satin & Charcoal Grey to give my old XBOX a nice two tone finish.

[Chi-kitory]

i like the idea of vinyl dye better. I don't want to sand, nor do i want to add clear coats. Plus i am getting the feeling it doesnt chip.

[PCB_Master]

Thanks for the dye idea, but I want to stick to paint. I forgot to ask, do you need a white or silver layer before doing a color?

[angelwolf71885]

i think krylon makes a spay paint for plastic

[bobzee]

Thanks for the dye idea, but I want to stick to paint. I forgot to ask, do you need a white or silver layer before doing a color?

Probably not, but I'd test both ways out on some pieces of scrap plastic and see what gives the best result.

[retro]

i think krylon makes a spay paint for plastic

Sorry to correct your spelling again, but spay means castrate. I'm pretty sure you don't want to be using paint that does that! :lol:

[PCB_Master]

Sorry to correct your spelling again, but spay means castrate. I'm pretty sure you don't want to be using paint that does that!

Ouch. That just hurts thinking about that...