Questions about Paint.

[Nam3o]

I want to paint the box I am doing BUT I have some questions before I start.

1. how do i prep the surface for best adhesion?

2. Do I need to prime it?

3. How many coats of paint do I apply?

4. Can I sand the primer for a smoother surface?

5. Do I clear coat it?

[crazy-modder]

I would recommend sanding it first with a medium to fine grit sand paper. You dont need to primer if you are using krylon fusion paint.  ALWAYS apply thin coats. That is one mistake alot of people make is way to thick of coats. Allow proper drying time, do not rush it "be patient". After you get a few coats on, do a little wet sanding. After wet sanding wipe it down and apply a couple more thin coats. Then wetsand one more time and apply one more thin coat. Clear coating is not needed but doesnt hurt.

[nEoVaLoR]

I need help with this too, I tried painting my iPhone but I butchered it so bad I just wound up buying a red housing instead...

How thin is a coat? Just barely enough to cover the whole surface? After your first coat should you be able to see what color that was underneath? And how much sanding should be done?

[Nam3o]

I would recommend sanding it first with a medium to fine grit sand paper. You dont need to primer if you are using krylon fusion paint.  ALWAYS apply thin coats. That is one mistake alot of people make is way to thick of coats. Allow proper drying time, do not rush it "be patient". After you get a few coats on, do a little wet sanding. After wet sanding wipe it down and apply a couple more thin coats. Then wetsand one more time and apply one more thin coat. Clear coating is not needed but doesnt hurt.

Thank you crazy-modder.

[Modded Matt]

a thin enough coat that you may see the original color a bit on the first coat or two.

as for sanding, I use fine steel wool, or use 400+ sandpaper you only really need to take the shine off the plastic, you dont want to scratch the surface)

[FOOKz™]

if you wet sand the paint, what do you best recommend to do so? I know that 1200 grit sandpaper... light soapy water and then a good buffing works but are there any special solutions/methods that can give a nice glossy finish?

(I hate paint. I need to get better.)

[Modded Matt]

oh after sading before paint, use a alcohol based cleaner/degreaser to remove skin oils and other particals.

as for wet sanding, use a 2000-4000 grit paper for final/clear coats then a good buff using a decent buffing compound, although i have never gone that far on a xbox shell.