How to Paint Fishing Lures With Air Brush Kits

How to Paint Fishing Lures With Air Brush Kits

fishing lure image by jimcox40 from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

You don't have to purchase expensive fishing lures from a local tackle shop. You can custom paint your own at home. The painting process requires about an hour of your time, and once the fishing lure is painted to your specification, you can add a layer of epoxy to prevent scratching and fading. Air brush kits and epoxy are available online and at local fishing stores.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Airbrush kit with acrylic paint
  • Epoxy with brush
  • Tape
  • Face mask (optional)
  • Gloves (optional)
Step 1
Strip the fishing lure of factory paint, if applicable. Using a gentle, up-and-down action, sand the fishing lure with fine grit sandpaper. Remove the majority of the factory paint. Proceed to Step 2, if the fishing lure is not coated with paint.
Step 2
Wash away any grit or oils left behind from your hands. Wet a cloth with denatured alcohol and wipe down the fishing lure from top to bottom. Wet the fishing lure, but do not soak it.
Step 3
Cover the bill of the fishing lure with artist's tape, drafting tape or masking tape.
Step 4
Calibrate the air compressor, which provides air to your air brush gun. The air pressure inside the air compressor should be between 30 and 40.
Step 5
Paint your fishing lure with an airbrush. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer of the air brush kit; instructions will vary. Pout about 4 to 7 drops of acrylic paint into the small opening located at the top of the spray gun. Press down on the throttle button (trigger), which is also located at the top of the airbrush gun. Spray the fishing lure with an even stroke to create an even finish. Slowly move from one side of the fishing lure to the other. Release the throttle button (trigger) when you are done. See the original package of the acrylic paint for drying times.
Step 6
Add a top protective layer of epoxy. Brush on the epoxy and then allow the fishing lure to dry in a well ventilated area.

Tips & Warnings

 
Let your fishing lures dry overnight or as directed by the manufacturer of the epoxy.
 
Always wear a protective mask and gloves when using acrylic paint and epoxy.

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...
  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...
  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword