Ethan Clarke
Painting hard plastic lures is a great way to customize your fishing experience. While it may seem daunting, with the right equipment and a bit of practice, anyone can do it. In this guide, we will cover everything from the tools and materials you'll need to get started, to step-by-step instructions on how to paint your lures like a pro. We'll also discuss the different types of paint and finishes available, and offer tips and tricks for creating unique and effective designs. So, whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of lure painting or an experienced angler wanting to take your fishing game to the next level, read on for all you need to know about painting hard plastic lures.
Characteristics and Values Table for Painting Hard Plastic Lures
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Equipment | Airbrushes, compressors, stencils, top coats |
| Starter Paints | Opaque starter kit from Hobby Lobby |
| Reducer | High-performance reducer from Hobby Lobby |
| Clear Coat | Rustoleum high-gloss clear coat, KBS Diamond 8404 Clear Coat |
| Technique | Spraying, dipping |
| Tutorials | Baker Builds on YouTube |
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What You'll Learn
Airbrushes and compressors
Airbrushing is the most common method for painting fishing lures, and it can give you the best results. Airbrushes and compressors can be purchased as a kit, with a range of prices and qualities available. For example, a basic kit from Amazon costs around $80, while a more advanced kit from Harbor Freight costs $119.99.
When choosing an airbrush, it is recommended to opt for a gravity feed model, as it allows the paint to fall naturally from the cup on top of the brush, resulting in less paint usage, a better finish, and more control over your technique. The Iwata Eclipse is a popular choice among lure builders and painters due to its durable, high-quality spring steel needle, which can handle both wide areas and detailed work.
Regarding the compressor, ensure it can produce at least 40 psi and has an adjustable valve to control the air pressure. Additionally, consider the airflow required by your airbrush to avoid ending up with insufficient airflow, as some smaller compressors may not be able to keep up with the demand.
To prevent paint from drying before it reaches the lure, add 5-10% acetone or a similar solvent-based paint thinner to the paint cup. This ensures that the paint dries within seconds of application, resulting in a smooth and efficient painting process. Remember to always wear a respirator when operating your airbrush for safety.
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Starter paints
Painting hard plastic lures is a great way to customize your fishing experience. It is important to do your research and choose the right equipment for the job. Here is a guide to some starter paints that can be used for painting hard plastic lures.
A starter paint kit is a great option for beginners. Hobby Lobby offers an Opaque starter kit for $27.99. This kit provides a range of colours to get you started and is a cost-effective way to begin painting your lures. It is a great way to experiment and find the colours and techniques that work best for you.
Clear Coats
After painting your lures, you will need to apply a clear coat to protect the paint job. A clear coat provides a protective layer that can withstand wear and tear. There are a few options to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. A cheap and easy option is the Rustoleum high-gloss clear coat. It can be sprayed on lightly and evenly, and it dries quickly. However, it is not a very hard coating and may not stand up to extended use.
For a harder coating, the KBS DIAMOND 8404 CLEAR COAT is a good option. It provides a medium-hard coating that is durable and long-lasting. However, it is more expensive and requires a dip coating application, which means you will need to dip the entire bait into the clear coat and then let it drip-dry.
Additional Equipment
In addition to paint and clear coats, you will also need other equipment such as airbrushes, stencils, and compressors. Airbrushes are a popular choice for painting lures, and you can find starter options online or at hobby stores. Compressor strength is important to consider as well, as it needs to be able to sustain the airflow required for airbrushing.
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Dipping lures in dye
To begin the process of dipping lures in dye, one should select a suitable dye. Spike-It Dip-N-Glo is a popular option that is specifically designed for dipping soft plastic lures. It produces permanent colour changes and is available in a variety of scents to further entice fish. Other options include the D2Fishing Products Dyesafe Containment System, which includes a plastic box with foam to hold the dye bottle and prevent dripping.
When selecting the dye, it is important to consider the colour of the lure. Soft plastic lures in transparent colours such as green pumpkin, watermelon, and clear blue are best for dipping in dye, according to Mark Menendez, a Bassmaster Elite Series pro. Menendez also notes that green pumpkins work well with most colours because they provide a strong contrast. However, he cautions that very dark colours, like black neon and black/blue flake, are difficult to dye effectively.
The process of dipping the lure in the dye is relatively straightforward. One method is to dip the lure in the dye solution, let it sit and dry for about 10 seconds, and then repeat the process. This may need to be done 3-4 times to achieve a full colour change. The length of time the lure is dipped in the dye will also affect the colour intensity. A one-second dip will result in a lighter colour, while a five-second dip will produce a stronger, more vivid colour. Additionally, during the spawning season, Menendez swirls his lures in a plastic bag with green pumpkin bait and red dye to create a unique effect.
The tail of the lure is typically the easiest and most common part to dip, but the head can also be dipped to increase visibility and attract bites from lethargic fish.
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Painting jigheads
Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary materials, including paint specifically designed for hard plastic lures, a small detail brush, a rotating jig holder, and some thin coats of a clear finish to protect your paint job. You will also need a well-ventilated area to work in, and it is recommended to wear gloves and a respirator for protection from any fumes.
Start by preparing the jighead surface. It is important to ensure that the jighead is clean and dry before you begin painting. Use a mild detergent to remove any oil or grease, and then lightly sand the surface with a fine-grit sandpaper to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Remove any dust with a tack cloth or a damp cloth.
Now you're ready to begin painting. Use a thin, even coat of paint as your first layer, and allow it to dry completely. Depending on the type of paint you are using, you may need to apply multiple thin coats to achieve full coverage. It is important to follow the paint manufacturer's instructions for drying times and application techniques. Once you have achieved the desired coverage, allow the paint to cure fully.
After the paint has cured, it's time to add a protective clear finish. Again, use thin, even coats, and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This step will help protect your paint job from chipping or scratching and will give your jighead a professional finish.
Finally, reassemble your jig by attaching the hook and any other components you may have removed before painting. Now you have a custom-painted jighead that is ready to be used and admired! Remember to experiment with different colours and patterns to add a unique touch to your fishing setup. Happy painting!
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Top coats and stencils
Top Coats
When applying a top coat to your painted hard plastic lures, it's important to choose a suitable product and follow the application instructions carefully. Some popular options for top coats include Envirotex Lite, a two-part epoxy that results in a glossy and rock-hard finish, and CS Sealcoat, a water-borne epoxy known for its durability and non-interaction with other substances.
Before applying the top coat, it's crucial to prepare the surface properly. One recommended method is to wipe the lures with a soft cloth dampened with alcohol. This helps ensure that the surface is clean and free of any debris that might affect the smoothness of the top coat. Additionally, using a tack rag can be beneficial for picking up any dust particles or towel lint, ensuring an even smoother finish.
When it comes to applying the top coat, there are a few methods to consider. You can brush, dip, or airbrush it on, depending on the product and your personal preference. If you're using a dip coating, like the KBS Diamond Clear Coat, simply submerge the lure in the coating and let it drip dry. For spray-on coatings, apply them lightly and evenly to achieve the desired finish.
Stencils
Stencils are a great way to create intricate patterns and designs on your lures. Hard plastic stencils, such as the wLure Hard Plastic 3D Stencil, offer reusability and interesting patterns that can enhance the attractiveness of your lures. When using stencils, ensure they fit your lure model correctly. If there is any distortion, you can use a heat gun or hair dryer to gently heat the stencil and correct its shape.
To apply paint using a stencil, start by securing the stencil in place on the lure. Then, use a brush or airbrush to carefully apply paint over the stencil, creating the desired pattern. It's important to work carefully to avoid paint bleeding underneath the stencil, which can affect the crispness of your design.
In conclusion, top coats and stencils play a crucial role in the art of lure painting. By following the instructions and tips provided above, you can achieve professional-looking results that will not only make your lures visually appealing but also protect your artwork for long-lasting use.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need an airbrush, a suitable air compressor, and paint. You can also use a clear coat to protect your paint job.
You can use any paint that is designed for use with an airbrush. However, it's important to do your research to find a paint that is durable and suitable for your specific application.
One way to apply paint to hard plastic lures is by using an airbrush. This technique can give you a smooth and even finish, but it's important to have the right equipment and technique to avoid making a mess.
You can use a clear coat to protect your paint job and make it more durable. There are a variety of clear coats available, ranging from cheap and easy-to-apply options to more expensive and longer-lasting alternatives.
