Paints...

[GoldenfrankO]

I'm starting to want to add custom paint jobs to items (GBA, DS, PSP, Wii, Gamecube, ect) I need to know what my best bet would be as far as paints go. I'd like the most reliable and cheapest paints. Thanks

[megabite]

I heard that Krylon fusion is good.

[attacknick]

Krylon Fusion is your best friend

[HotDog-Cart]

Actually my best freind has got to be Spongebuell. But nice try!

[eurddrue]

doesn't spongey live in wisconsin?

[Tibia]

Absolute best would be getting spray gear and going for automotive quality finishes. But for best off-the-shelf cheap paint, you can't beat Krylon Fusion. Just make sure your parts are completely clean and grease free. I wash stuff with dish soap, rinse well, let air dry, then wipe down with alcohol wipes before I paint. Many thin layers is better than few thick layers. A clear coat will be an extra layer of protection, as well.

[GoldenfrankO]

@Tibi: how many clear coats, and when should I put them on? Before or after I painted it the color I wanted?

[Kurt_]

One or two should be more than enough. And they go on top. They're there to protect the coloured paint underneath.

[Tibia]

Kurt's right. Exactly how I do it. I like to use Krylon's clear finishes, myself. It comes in gloss and satin. Obviously, the satin will hide fingerprints much better, but the gloss is easier to wipe clean. One isn't better than the other for lasting, though. They perform the same. It's all in the look you'd like.

[GoldenfrankO]

Tibi: how well does that paint last?

[thewise1]

I was wondering the same thing, how well does krylon hold up to constantly being handled as a portable. As long as it's set long enough anyway.

[vskid]

I was wondering the same thing, how well does krylon hold up to constantly being handled as a portable. As long as it's set long enough anyway.

The Fusion alone holds up great against the oils and stuff from your fingers. The PSP I painted with it only wore off on the corners and edges. The flat surfaces were all fine.

[Kurt_]

Seconded. Corners and edges seem to wear faster.

[GoldenfrankO]

Is there any paint I can use that wouldn't wear off on the edges as much, or is there a a clear coat that I could put on top of it to make sure it doesn't chip off.

[Kurt_]

That's the whole point of clear coats.

Three layers of clear coat will provide plenty of protection.