How to Paint RC Bodies
This handy guide teaches you how to paint RC bodies. Follow these steps and paint the body of your RC car with your own personalized design. Make sure to use the right paint and the right tools for optimal results.
First: The choice
Choose your paint colors and particular design; gather your tools and supplies. Required items include an airbrush, RC paint, a drop cloth to protect your work area, a smock or old shirt, a face mask, gloves and masking tape. Optional supplies include stenciled designs, extra paint colors and RC decals.
Second: The set-up
Spread the drop cloth over your work area. Put on the face mask, gloves and smock to protect yourself and your clothes. Set up your airbrush and fill it with paint. Test the airbrush first on a piece of scrap material before using it on your car to make sure it is working properly.
Third: The cover
Cover with masking tape any areas of your car that you don't want to paint, including the windows and tires. Hobby stores sell specialized stickers that protect RC car windows.
Fourth: The spray
Begin by spraying a fine layer of paint over the car body. Let this layer dry thoroughly before continuing; this layer protects the car by creating a seal that prevents paint from getting under the masking tape and ruining the areas you do not want painted. Keep the nozzle 10 to 12 inches from the car's body as you spray to ensure that the paint spreads evenly on the car's surface.
Fifth: The finish
Apply a second layer of paint and allow it to dry. Then apply your stencils and specialty paint colors to personalize your design. Once everything is dry, cover the car body with paint sealant or clear paint to protect the new colors.