How to Spray Paint a Wooden CO2 Car

CO2 cars are small, wooden versions of dragster cars.

CO2 cars are small, handcrafted dragster cars powered by little carbon dioxide cartridges that are screwed into an opening in the back. They are used in races against other CO2 cars, providing the maker of each car with a challenge to create the fastest, most aerodynamic design. Once a CO2 car is designed, sanded and cut, it is ready to be painted. One of the quickest, easiest ways to paint a wooden CO2 car is to use an acrylic-based spray paint. The paint is safe for the wood, only requires one coat (as not to weigh down the car) and is available in every color.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Acrylic spray paint in color of your choice
• Sanding sealer
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Lay out some newspaper in a well-ventilated area to prevent a mess. Place the wooden CO2 car on the newspaper. Make sure you have not attached the wheels yet.

2. Open a can of acrylic spray paint in a color of your choice. Shake the can well to ready the paint for use. Hold the can about 12 inches away from the wooden car and spray, making sure to evenly coat the entire top as well as both sides of the CO2 car. Allow the paint to completely dry according to the directions on the back of the can.

3. Turn the CO2 car upside down and paint the bottom of the car using the same technique. Allow to dry.

4. Coat the newly painted CO2 car with a coat of sanding sealer using a paintbrush. Since the CO2 car is made with softer, more porous wood, the acrylic paint will soak into it and the finished product will look matte, with the grains of the wood raised to look bumpy. The sanding sealer will give the car a shiny, polished look. Allow the sealer to completely dry.

References

• Pinewood Derby Car: Paint Kit and Tips
• Mister Art: Acrylic Spray Paint

Resources

• Photo of Various Painted CO2 Cars