For many hobbyists, an RC car is not just a toy, but a vehicle for creativity. Painting and customizing your RC car can be a rewarding project, allowing you to showcase your unique style while making your RC stand out at the track. The process of customizing your RC car involves selection of the right paints, designing a custom look, and applying those designs effectively.
Choosing the Right Paints
Before you start the customization process, it’s crucial to choose the right type of paint for your RC car body. Typically, RC car bodies are made from polycarbonate, a material chosen for its lightweight and durable characteristics. For polycarbonate bodies, you’ll want to use a paint that’s specifically formulated for use on this type of plastic. Polycarbonate paints are available in both spray and airbrush forms, allowing you versatility in how you apply your color and designs.
It’s important to remember that regular enamel or acrylic paints used for model kits can crack or flake off your RC car body, due to its flexibility. Brands like Tamiya and Duratrax offer a variety of polycarbonate-compatible paints that provide good coverage and are durable enough to withstand regular use.
Preparing the Surface
Preparation is key to ensuring your paint adheres properly and looks great. Starting with a clean surface is pivotal. Wash your RC car body using mild soap and warm water to remove any oils and residues. After washing, avoid touching the body with your fingers as oils from your skin can prevent paint from sticking. If there are any scratches or imperfections, sanding with a fine-grit sandpaper can help achieve a smoother surface.
When the body is dry, apply a gentle degreaser and again, allow it to dry completely. Applying a base coat of primer designed for use on polycarbonate can help improve paint adhesion and the overall look of your colors.
Designing Your Custom Look
Designing the custom look of your RC car is perhaps the most exciting part of the process. Start with sketching your ideas on paper to finalize your designs. You can be as imaginative as you want, using vibrant colors, patterns, and personal logos.
Many racers use masking tape to lay down intricate patterns or designs on their cars. High-quality, low-tack masking tape allows you to create crisp lines without damaging the underlayers of paint. Consider using stencils or vinyl masks for more complex designs. These can be particularly useful for adding logos or text.
Painting Techniques
When your design is ready, and your car is prepped, you can begin the painting process. If you’re using spray paints, shake the can thoroughly and test the spray on a piece of scrap material first. When applying, aim for multiple light coats rather than a single heavy one, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This technique helps prevent runs and drips and ensures the paint dries evenly.
Airbrushing is another popular method, especially for those who want finer control over their designs. It allows for detailed work and shading, which can bring a level of realism and professionalism to your work. Regardless of the method you choose, always work in a well-ventilated area and consider wearing a mask to avoid inhaling fumes.
Finishing Touches
Once your final paint layer is dry, applying a clear sealer can help protect your paint job from scratches and peeling. Clear coats designed for use on polycarbonate are available in both glossy and matte finishes, depending on your preference.
After your clear coat has dried, you can add any additional details such as decals. Finally, reassemble any parts you may have removed during the painting process, and your custom RC car is ready to hit the road.
Remember, the key to a great finish is patience and preparation. Take your time to plan and execute your designs, and you'll be rewarded with a professionally customized RC car that reflects your personal style and stands out at the track.