Customizing RC Cars with Lexan Body Airbrush Paints

Choosing the Right Paint

When choosing paint for your Lexan body‚ it’s crucial to select a paint specifically designed for polycarbonate. These paints are formulated to adhere well to the Lexan surface and withstand the rigors of racing. They’re also available in a wide range of colors and finishes.

Preparing the Lexan Body

Before you start painting‚ it’s essential to properly prepare your Lexan body. This ensures a smooth‚ even surface for the paint to adhere to and prevents any imperfections from showing through. Here’s a step-by-step guide for preparing your Lexan body⁚

1. Cleaning⁚ Start by thoroughly cleaning the Lexan body with soap and water. This removes any dirt‚ grease‚ or debris that could interfere with the paint’s adhesion. Be sure to rinse the body thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of soap.
2. Masking⁚ If you want to create a multi-colored design or protect specific areas from paint‚ use masking tape to cover the areas you don’t want to paint. Masking tape is designed for polycarbonate and can be easily removed without damaging the Lexan. Apply the tape carefully and make sure it’s smooth and free of wrinkles.
3. Sanding⁚ Lightly sand the Lexan body with fine-grit sandpaper (600-800 grit) to create a slightly rough surface. This helps the paint adhere better. Sand in one direction‚ avoiding circular motions. Remember‚ only sand lightly; you don’t want to create deep scratches.
4. Primer⁚ Applying a primer is crucial for achieving a smooth and durable finish. A dedicated Lexan primer provides an excellent base for the paint to adhere to. It also helps prevent the paint from chipping or peeling. Apply the primer in thin‚ even coats‚ allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
5. Drying⁚ After each step‚ ensure that the Lexan body is completely dry before moving on to the next. This will help prevent any issues with paint adhesion or uneven application. You can use a hairdryer on a low setting to speed up the drying process.

By following these preparation steps‚ you’ll create a smooth‚ clean‚ and primed surface that will enhance your airbrushing experience and ensure a beautiful‚ durable finish for your Lexan body.

Airbrushing Techniques

Airbrushing is a versatile technique that allows for intricate designs and smooth color transitions on your Lexan body. Here’s a guide to mastering the art of airbrushing for RC car customization⁚

1. Setting Up Your Workstation⁚ Before you begin‚ create a well-ventilated workspace. You’ll need a sturdy table‚ a comfortable chair‚ and proper lighting. Cover the surface with a drop cloth or newspaper to protect it from paint spills.
2. Thinning Your Paint⁚ Airbrush paints are typically thicker than regular paints. You’ll need to thin them with airbrush thinner to achieve a smooth and consistent flow through your airbrush. Follow the paint manufacturer’s recommendations for thinning ratios.
3. Practice⁚ It’s essential to practice your airbrushing techniques before applying paint to your Lexan body. Use scrap pieces of Lexan or paper to experiment with different paint flows‚ distances‚ and patterns.
4. Holding the Airbrush⁚ Hold the airbrush with a firm grip‚ but not too tightly. Keep your fingers relaxed to avoid hand tremors. The angle of the airbrush determines the width of the paint line. A more vertical angle results in a wider line‚ while a more horizontal angle creates a narrower line.
5. Distance and Pressure⁚ The distance between the airbrush nozzle and the Lexan body affects the paint’s coverage and the size of the paint droplets. Experiment with different distances to find the optimal setting for your project. The air pressure also plays a role in paint flow. Higher pressure results in a faster paint flow‚ while lower pressure produces a slower flow.
6. Applying Layers⁚ Apply thin‚ even coats of paint‚ allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Multiple thin coats will provide a smoother and more durable finish than one thick coat.
7. Clean Up⁚ After each airbrushing session‚ thoroughly clean your airbrush to prevent paint buildup and clogging. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your specific airbrush model.

Practice‚ patience‚ and attention to detail are key to achieving stunning airbrushed results. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your designs.

Applying Clear Coat and Decals

Once you’ve completed your airbrushing masterpiece‚ it’s time to protect your paint job and add those finishing touches with clear coat and decals. Here’s a step-by-step guide⁚

1. Choosing the Right Clear Coat⁚ Opt for a high-quality‚ Lexan-specific clear coat. These clear coats are designed to provide a durable and scratch-resistant finish that will safeguard your paint job from the rigors of racing.
2. Preparing for Application⁚ Before applying the clear coat‚ ensure your Lexan body is clean and free of any dust or debris. A gentle wipe with a microfiber cloth and a bit of rubbing alcohol will do the trick.
3. Thinning the Clear Coat⁚ Similar to your airbrush paints‚ you’ll need to thin the clear coat for optimal application. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended thinning ratio.
4. Applying the Clear Coat⁚ Apply the clear coat in thin‚ even coats‚ allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Aim for 2-3 coats for a durable and glossy finish. Avoid applying too much clear coat in one go‚ as this can lead to runs and imperfections.
5. Drying Time⁚ Allow the clear coat to dry completely before moving on to the next step. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended drying time.
6. Decal Placement⁚ Before applying decals‚ plan out their placement carefully. Consider the overall design and aesthetics of your RC car.
7. Applying Decals⁚ Decals are typically applied with water. Carefully place the decal on your Lexan body and use a squeegee or a soft cloth to smooth out any air bubbles. Allow the decal to dry completely before applying another.
8. Protecting Decals⁚ Once the decals are dry‚ apply a thin layer of clear coat over them to protect them from scratches and wear.

By following these steps‚ you can create a stunning and durable finish that will showcase your airbrushing skills and make your RC car stand out on the track.

Finishing Touches

With your clear coat and decals applied‚ you’re almost ready to hit the track. But there are a few finishing touches that can elevate your RC car’s appearance and performance. Here’s how to add the final flourishes⁚

1. Window Masking⁚ For a more realistic look‚ consider masking off the windows and applying a tinted window film. This will give your RC car a more professional and race-ready appearance.
2. Tire Detailing⁚ Don’t forget to pay attention to the tires! A simple application of tire shine can add a touch of gloss and enhance the overall look of your RC car.
3. Lighting⁚ If you’re feeling ambitious‚ consider adding LED lights to your RC car. These can be wired into the car’s electronics and create a stunning effect‚ particularly at night.
4. Custom Accessories⁚ The possibilities for customizing your RC car are endless. Explore the world of aftermarket accessories to add your personal touch. This could include spoilers‚ wings‚ roll cages‚ or even custom-made body panels.
5. Protection⁚ Once your RC car is fully customized‚ it’s important to protect your investment. Consider using a car cover or a storage bag to keep your RC car safe from dust‚ dirt‚ and scratches when not in use.

By adding these finishing touches‚ you’ll not only enhance the look of your RC car but also boost its performance and durability. Remember‚ customizing your RC car is a journey‚ not a destination. As you gain experience‚ you’ll discover new ways to personalize your ride and make it truly unique.