Painting Lexan Slot Car Body

Lexan is a lightweight, durable plastic that is often used for making slot car bodies. It is a good choice for painting because it is easy to work with and can be painted with a variety of different types of paint.

Preparing the Body

The first step in painting a Lexan slot car body is to prepare the body. This involves cleaning the body with warm, soapy water to remove any dirt or grease. Once the body is clean, it should be dried thoroughly.

Once the body is dry, it is time to mask off any areas that you do not want to paint. This can be done with masking tape or liquid mask. If you are using masking tape, be sure to press the tape down firmly to prevent paint from bleeding under the tape.

Painting the Body

Lexan can be painted with a variety of different types of paint, including enamel, acrylic, and lacquer. The type of paint that you use will depend on the look that you are trying to achieve.

If you are using enamel paint, it is important to thin the paint with enamel thinner before applying it to the body. This will help the paint to flow smoothly and evenly. Acrylic paint can be used without thinning, but it may be necessary to apply multiple coats to achieve the desired opacity. Lacquer paint is also a good choice for Lexan bodies, but it is important to use a primer before applying the lacquer paint.

When applying paint to the body, it is important to use light, even coats. Avoid applying too much paint at once, as this can cause the paint to run or sag. It is also important to allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next coat.

Detailing the Body

Once the body is painted, it is time to add details. This can be done with a variety of different techniques, including decals, striping tape, and paint.

Decals are a great way to add complex graphics to a Lexan body. Decals can be purchased from a variety of different sources, or you can create your own decals using a computer and a printer.

Striping tape is a great way to add simple stripes to a Lexan body. Striping tape is available in a variety of different widths and colors, so you can create a variety of different looks.

Paint can also be used to add details to a Lexan body. This can be done with a brush or an airbrush. If you are using a brush, be sure to use a fine-tipped brush and to apply the paint in thin, even strokes. If you are using an airbrush, be sure to use a low pressure setting and to hold the airbrush perpendicular to the body.

Finishing the Body

Once the body is painted and detailed, it is time to finish the body. This involves applying a clear coat to the body. A clear coat will help to protect the paint and decals from damage.

There are a variety of different types of clear coats available, including enamel, acrylic, and lacquer. The type of clear coat that you use will depend on the type of paint that you used on the body.

When applying a clear coat, it is important to apply light, even coats. Avoid applying too much clear coat at once, as this can cause the clear coat to run or sag. It is also important to allow each coat of clear coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.