How to Customize your Guitar

Turn a plain guitar into a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Some guitar players cringe at the thought of getting anything, let alone paint, on the surface of their instrument. Others can't stand the idea of wielding the exact same guitar as anyone else. If you're one of the latter, put your imagination to work to create a custom painted guitar that's as much a work of art as the music it creates. A word of caution, though: Once you paint your guitar, you can't go back.

Things You'll Need

• Sandpaper
• Painter's tape
• Spray paint
• Acrylic paint
• Self-stick vinyl mask or stencils
• Clear coat

Instructions

1. Remove the strings from the guitar.

2. Cover all areas that will not be painted completely with painter's tape.

3. Sand the finish of the guitar to prepare it for the new coat of paint. The surface should be dull and even. For the best results, sand the finish off completely down to the wood.

4. Apply an even coat of spray primer.

5. Spray on a coat of your base color. Allow it to dry for 30 minutes, or as directed, then apply a second coat. Allow the paint to dry overnight.

6. Apply painter's tape or self-stick vinyl masking to create designs, if desired. Spray paint additional, darker colors over the base color. Alternatively, you can hand paint a design using brushes and good quality enamel paint. When your design is finished, allow the paint to dry overnight.

7. Apply a layer of spray clear coat over the design. Carefully remove the painter's tape. Allow the coating to dry for 24 to 48 hours before restringing the guitar.

Tips & Warnings

• If you make a mistake -- or if you're unhappy with the result -- you can start over by resanding the surface.

• Always start with the lightest color.

• You can paint directly on the original guitar surface if you don't want to change the color or want to keep the wood finish; apply clear coat over it to prevent it from peeling.

• Wear a dust mask or respirator and protective eyewear when sanding.

• Always use spray paint in a very well ventilated area such as an open garage or outdoors, or wear a respirator.

References

• Krylon: Custom Painted Guitars with Lou Drucker
• Paint Your Own Guitar: Vinyl Masking