Can I use regular paint to paint my guitar?

Question

I've been wanting to paint my guitar for months. One thing I'm wondering is if i can use regular paint like the ones used in walls. If not what other paints must I buy?

Answer 1

If you're guitar is a solid body electric, then the best paint to use is a good quality oil based enamel paint. Buy one small can each of Blue, Red, Yellow, Black, and White. You can then mix those colors together to make any color you need without having to buy a ton of different colors. When the paint dries, coat it with a clear oil-based urethane to protect it.

If you're guitar is a hollow body acoustic DO NOT PAINT IT! You'll kill the sound of it and end up with a guitar that sounds like strings on a catcher's mit. The guitar body is what projects the sounds of the strings, and painting it will absolutely destroy the guitar.

Answer 2

You don't want "regular wall paint" which is flat paint and latex which won't stick well to the surface. You probably need to use either hobby type gloss enamels or automotive paints. You may have to get touchup paints if you want the latter in small quantities. You will certainly have to clean the surface of the guitar with paint thinner for what ever paint you use and may have to lightly sand the areas you want to paint for it to get a grip.
There should be web sites discussing the topic.
Yup
esearch with 'paint my guitar' and take your choice.

Answer 3

I suspect wall paint would be a poor choice. Assuming it's a wood guitar, you need to strip the surface of its gloss, then use a paint made for wood.

This will very probably affect the sound, but if the guitar is cheap or beat to hell, it might be worth it.

Answer 4

I'd go to a music store and ask someone before you do anything. I'd think you would need some sort of varnish so it looks decent.

Answer 5

Only if you want to ruin it. Sounds like a job for a professional.