How to paint a guitar?

In this guide, we'll show you how to paint a guitar so that your personality will shine through!

Prepare the surface

Whether you make your own guitar, enjoy guitar restoration or just want a custom painted guitar body, the first stage is to properly prepare the surface. Preparation
If you are restoring an old guitar, it may be necessary to fill any dents or marks with wood filler. Once this is done, use coarse paper, followed by fine grit glass paper to smooth the surface. This will not only remove any dirt and expose a clean surface, but it will also ensure that the paint properly adheres to the surface. Equipment needed
If you are a fan of custom painted guitars then you will need to get the right tools for the job. A sanding block, a range of glass papers and some acrylic based paint are all essential. Tips
If you want to simply paint on your design onto the surface of a relatively new guitar, then the preparation is simpler. Use rubbing alcohol to remove any grease from the area you wish to paint and you are ready to go!

Painting

Benefits of using air brushes
To avoid brush strokes, it is a good idea to buy or rent an air brush. Rather than using custom spray paint cans, an air brush will give you much more control over the paint coverage and will allow you to fade colours together. Personalisation
Guitar painting is a very personal endeavour and is a great way to show your personality. If you wish to stray away from a traditional custom pain job, you may wish to design your own guitar logo. This could be a band logo, a tattoo design or just a shape you like.
Procedure
For this, plan out the design on paper first. Use acrylic pens and paint to apply the design. It is even possible to apply transfers once the base coat is applied. In the final step you will finish your guitar. Once you have applied a base coat, second (and possibly third) coat, use applied detail lacquer (once you are ready to apply guitar lacquer).
Applying the last finish
This can be bought online, though any quality wood lacquer is suitable. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and do not touch the guitar for at least 24 hours after applying the varnish. This paint lacquer will protect your guitar from the bumps and knocks it will receive over the years.