Painting the control panel

[Craig Pilecky]

I drilled the holes for my control panel, and sanded it down nice. I just need to paint it, and then im going to mount the joysticks and buttons.

Im not sure what type of paint to use. Should I use spray paint, or brush? Does it need undercoating, or just  2 or 3 layers of black?

[Hellfromabove]

I asked my mom's friend what I should do and he said that I should just go with brush paint cause it's cheaper and spray paint is just too expensive for a can, I have used spray paint on a CP I was making and it just runs and stuff like that. Also if you put primer on first, which I highly suggest, you will only need one coat. Also the primer prevents the paint from seaping in to the wood and making to wood show. Thanx.

-See Ya!!!

[spidermonkey]

You can use spraypaint but I would make sure that its epoxy paint and if you're not going to cover the surface with acrylic or polycarbonate (you really should I might add) then I would spray on a good 4 or 5 coats of clearcoat on top of the black. Wear through will eventually occur just from normal abuse but the clearcoat will slow down the process somewhat.
Best of luck
S.M.

[SirPoonga]

using mdf?  priming first is a good idea

[Frostillicus]

If you're using wood make sure you use a few coats of sanding sealer or the grain will show through.

[Rocky]

I would use rollers instead of brushes. It makes a much nicer finish.  Also, sand between coats with fine grit.

Good luck,

Rocky