Last time we looked at DIY mods, we started thinking about a easy to do trial project, customized painted speakers.  The idea behind this simple painting project will be to get an idea if you like the work involved with cosmetic computer modifications and to gain some skills in painting before we start working on larger scale projects.

To complete this project, you need a pair of speakers, your desired color of spray paint, and painters masking tape.  There are several different types of paint that you can choose from and the type of paint that you will use really depends upon personal preference and the desired end result.  Rust-Oleum Hammered’s line is a tough paint that can be used on metal and will not rub off.  For plastic parts, such as the speakers we are working with, you may prefer to use a plastic spray paint such as “Plasti-Kote Ultra Enamel.”

Painting allows your imagination to run wild.  You can design your computing area to be anything you want and desire.  If you want to keep your first project simple, try painting the speakers a single color.  If you want to try something a little more advanced consider stripes or poka-dots.  The masking tape will help you design anything you can imagine.  Before you begin painting your speakers, mask off the speaker grills and any areas you do not want to paint.  You may also to apply masking tape to the cables and any knobs or buttons.  Pay special attention to any knobs or buttons, you do not want to apply to much paint and cause the buttons to stop workings. 

The basic rules to remember when painting is to use spray paint not a brush on paint and spray in light coats of paint.  Light coats of paint allow you to avoid runs but make sure you allow each coat to dry before applying the next coat.  The idea is to build up the layers of paint until you reach the color you desire.  If you are painting a pattern make sure you keep the masking tape applied to the areas you do not want painted until the paint you have applied is completely dried.  You may want to wait at least 24 hours after you apply the last coat of paint before you remove the masking tape. 

If you have dark colored speakers and want to lighten the color, consider applying a primer or color blocker to your speakers before you start painting.  Usually it is easier to apply darker paint colors to lighter colored objects but you may find that there are currently more black plastic computer accessories than white plastic. 

So, let us get started on painting those speakers.  Take a chance and paint them bright orange because if the worst happens and you end up with a streaky mess of spray painted speakers you will have two choices.  One, start over with a different color of hammered paint.  Two, buy a different pair and think about finding a new outlet for your creative endeavors.