How to Get a Really Glossy Pinewood Derby Car
Making a Pinewood Derby race car is often one of the highlights of being a Boy Scout. This excellent father-son project introduces kids to basic woodworking and helps them develop the skills to craft their own toy race cars. Decorating and finishing the project is part of the fun, and a shimmering Pinewood Derby car looks cool. A high-gloss finish also cuts wind resistance and may be the winning edge that leads your car to the championship lane.
Things You'll Need
- High-gloss enamel paints in desired colors
- Modeling brushes
- Spray shellac
- Cellophane tape
- Scissor
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Old newspapers
Instructions
-
-
1
Remove the wheels from the car if they have already been installed.
-
2
Use cellophane tape and scissors to block off areas not to be painted, such as decals, windows and plastic fins.
-
-
3
Paint the car using high-gloss enamel, which will leave a shine when dried. Apply two coats if desired, allowing at least 24 hours between applications.
-
4
Remove the cellophane tape and place the wooden car on newspapers in the yard.
-
5
Spray a coat of shellac on all surfaces and allow to dry completely.
-
6
Gently sand the wooden surfaces (not the decals or windows) with fine grit sandpaper.
-
7
Add a second and third coat of shellac, if desired, allowing the car to dry completely between coats.
-
1
