Painting a Sousaphone...

[Jedi Master]

Hi again!

I am concerned about the durability of the paint when spray painting a sousaphone. Is the combination of spray paint and acrylic lacquer going to be permanent???

As mentioned in the valve cluster thread, it is a King sousaophone. Apparently of the older variety, with a smooth surface.

I am guessing that I will need to "scratch up" the surface, with sandpaper, or steel wool to really get the paint to stick better.

I am wondering if enough thin coats of the acrylic lacquer will make it permanent.

Anybody have any experience with this kind of project? (Will the color of the paint "oxidize" over time?)

THANKS!

[Dan Schultz]

Hi again!

I am concerned about the durability of the paint when spray painting a sousaphone. Is the combination of spray paint and acrylic lacquer going to be permanent??? .....

If you are looking for a high-quality & long-lasting finish... use the same process as would be used in an auto bodyshop.

[Jedi Master]

Hey guys, thanks for the feedback.

The complicating factor is that I am planning on doing the sousaphone in different colors.

I figured to "scuff up" the surface of the horn (sandpaper? steel wool?), spray paint the color on, and use acrylic lacquer to seal the paint (not sure how many layers, yet).

Do you think I will be sorry with the results?

[Dean E]

Hey guys, thanks for the feedback.

The complicating factor is that I am planning on doing the sousaphone in different colors.

I figured to "scuff up" the surface of the horn (sandpaper? steel wool?), spray paint the color on, and use acrylic lacquer to seal the paint (not sure how many layers, yet).

Do you think I will be sorry with the results?

Bloke's appliance spray is generally an epoxy polymer that levels well, and needs no sealing. Color selection is limited.

Auto and motorcycle customizers know that the most important element of each job is a shiny-smooth, specular-glossy surface. From there, they apply sandable primer and then add base color coats and special effects coats. They may be finished with up to 20 layers of clear coat, each coat sanded with appropriate materials.

You probably would be well-advised to spend a few bucks on a "how-to" book at an auto parts store. Also, google and gain a basic technical knowledge of custom finishes.

Also, consider having the work done by someone who customizes motorcycles and show cars. Those folks have some amazing techniques at their disposal.

[sloan]

Bloke's appliance spray is generally an epoxy polymer that levels well, and needs no sealing. Color selection is limited.

Is it available in Harvest Gold?

[SplatterTone]

For some choice sousaphone painting.
viewtopic.php?f=4&t=35127
It is a little surprising the pictures are still there.

[sloan]

For some choice sousaphone painting.
viewtopic.php?f=4&t=35127
It is a little surprising the pictures are still there.

Is there a sousaphone in these pictures?

[Dean E]

Bloke's appliance spray is generally an epoxy polymer that levels well, and needs no sealing. Color selection is limited.

Is it available in Harvest Gold?

I assume not. Your google search will show about four or five colors matching common appliance design colors.

[Rick Denney]

Bloke's appliance spray is generally an epoxy polymer that levels well, and needs no sealing. Color selection is limited.

Is it available in Harvest Gold?

I'm only interested if I can get it in Avocado.

Rick "so that the inside and outside might look the same" Denney

[imperialbari]

Isn’t just painting a sousaphone getting a bit old?:

[sousaphone68]

Isn’t just painting a sousaphone getting a bit old?:

I like the Ford Anglia in the background

[Z-Tuba Dude]

Isn’t just painting a sousaphone getting a bit old?:

[OldsRecording]

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Wait- I'm confused. is this what you mean by 'Painting a sousaphone'?