How to Paint Laptops

Add color and interest to your laptop with paint.

Today, laptops are a way of life for many computer users. Useful tools for work and entertainment, laptops are carried from location to location and often used in public. Their prevalence has made laptops almost a fashion accessory to many. While laptops today come in an assortment of colors, many still are boring black or gray. You can add a personal touch to your laptop with a custom paint job. Consider painting your laptop all one color, or adding your own designs to customize your computer.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Painter's tape
• Plastic wrap
• Hobby paint for plastics
• Flashlight
• Sandpaper
• Plastic clear coat
• Craft knife

Instructions

1. Test out your paint and technique on a similar surface. Laptops are expensive pieces of equipment, so before you begin painting it is wise to test out your design and materials. Pick an electronic device similar to the color and finish of your laptop, such as a remote control or telephone. Sketch out your chosen design on a scrap piece of paper before painting.

2. Protect the surfaces you do not want to paint. In some cases, you may choose to remove the pieces you want to protect. For example, you could unscrew the screen case from your laptop. Check your user manual for instructions or warnings. If removing the case is not an option, use painter's tape and plastic wrap to completely cover the area you want to protect.

3. Spread newspaper or plastic garbage bags over your work surface. Begin painting on your taped laptop. Paint evenly and smoothly over the laptop surface. A thin coat is typically sufficient and will help you to avoid chipping once the paint has dried. Clean up any excess drips or running as you paint. Apply your paint in one direction only to hide brush strokes.

4. Apply several coats as desired to reach your chosen level of color saturation. Again, thin, even coats are best for painting your laptop. Allow several minutes of dry time in between coats to allow your paint to distribute evenly. If you notice any imperfections as your paint dries, use sandpaper to buff the area and repaint as needed. Look for inconsistencies in the coat by shining light over it with a flashlight.

5. Add a layer of clear coat to your laptop once your paint has fully dried. This will help seal in your paint color and add a glossy shine to your laptop. Once your clear coat has fully dried, slowly remove the painter's tape and plastic wrap. Use a craft knife to delicately cut away your pieces of tape. Reassemble your laptop as needed.

References

• Notebook Review: Do it Yourself Notebook Paint Job