Best Paint for Pinewood Derby Car: Top Picks and Tips
Pinewood derby cars are a staple in many scout troops and youth organizations. These miniature cars are typically made from a block of wood and raced down a track. While there are many factors that can contribute to a successful race, including weight distribution and aerodynamics, the appearance of the car is also important. This is where the paint comes in.
Choosing the right paint for your pinewood derby car can make a big difference in its appearance and performance. The type of paint you choose can affect the weight of the car, the finish, and the durability of the paint job. It’s important to choose a paint that is both lightweight and durable, as well as easy to apply.
When choosing a paint for your pinewood derby car, it’s important to consider the type of wood you are working with. Some types of wood, such as pine, are more porous than others, which can affect how the paint adheres to the surface. You’ll also want to consider the type of finish you want, whether it’s a glossy or matte finish.
Overall, the best paint for pinewood derby cars is one that is lightweight, durable, and easy to apply. By choosing the right paint, you can create a car that not only looks great but performs well on the track. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top paints for pinewood derby cars on the market today.
Best Paint for Pinewood Derby Car
As avid Pinewood Derby racers, we know that choosing the right paint for your car can make all the difference in the race. After researching and testing various paints, we’ve compiled a list of the best options available on Amazon. These paints are easy to apply, durable, and provide a smooth finish that will make your car stand out on the track. Check out our top picks below.
Individuall Metallic Acrylic Paint Set – 8 Pack (20 mL) Multicolored Metallic Paints for Indoor and Outdoor Use on Canvas, Paper, Rock, Wood, Metal -amp; Walls – Gifts for Artists Multicolored Metallic Acrylic Paint
If you’re looking for a versatile metallic paint set that can be used on various surfaces, then the Individuall Metallic Acrylic Paint Set may be the one for you.
Pros
- The vibrant blend of pigments creates stunning colors that can be used indoors or outdoors.
- The metallic acrylic paints work on most surfaces including canvas, metal, fabric, wood, plastic, and more.
- The paint is a medium that can be mixed with other hues for added glam.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that two of the eight paints were not as pigmented as the others.
- The price may be a bit steep for some.
- The 0.7 fl oz bottles may not be enough for larger projects.
We recently tried out the Individuall Metallic Acrylic Paint Set and were impressed with the results. The vibrant colors were stunning and looked great on various surfaces. We were able to use the paint on canvas, metal, and wood without any issues. The paint dried quickly and had a nice metallic sheen to it.
One thing to note is that some customers have reported that two of the eight paints were not as pigmented as the others. We did not experience this issue ourselves, but it’s something to keep in mind. Additionally, the price may be a bit steep for some, especially if you’re only using the paint for smaller projects. The 0.7 fl oz bottles may not be enough for larger projects either.
Overall, we would recommend the Individuall Metallic Acrylic Paint Set to anyone looking for a versatile metallic paint set that can be used on various surfaces. It’s perfect for arts and crafts projects, paintings, and murals.
Pinewood Car Sticker Set
If you want to take your pinewood derby car to the next level, the Pinewood Car Sticker Set is the perfect addition.
Pros
- The stickers are easy to apply, with no need for scissors or complicated decals.
- The set comes with a variety of designs, including stripes, numbers, flags, and lights.
- Made in the USA with high-quality materials, these stickers are a great way to personalize your car and make it stand out.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the stickers are not as strong or sticky as they had hoped, and may not hold up well in certain conditions.
- The set may not include enough stickers for larger or more complex designs.
- While the stickers are reusable, they may not hold up well after multiple uses.
We recently used the Pinewood Car Sticker Set to decorate our own derby car, and we were impressed with how easy it was to apply the stickers. Each one is individually cut, so there’s no need to spend time cutting them out with scissors. The variety of designs included in the set allowed us to create a unique and eye-catching design that really stood out on race day.
However, we did find that some of the stickers were not as strong or sticky as we had hoped, and did not hold up well in certain conditions. We also found that the set may not include enough stickers for larger or more complex designs, so you may need to purchase multiple sets if you want to create a truly unique car.
Overall, we would recommend the Pinewood Car Sticker Set to anyone looking to add some personality and flair to their pinewood derby car. While there are some limitations to the set, it’s a great way to personalize your car and make it stand out on race day.
Crafts 4 All Acrylic Paint Set
If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile paint set for your pinewood derby car, the Crafts 4 All Acrylic Paint Set is a great option.
Pros
- The vivid colors of this paint set bring out maximum brilliance and color clarity, making it perfect for pinewood derby cars.
- The non-toxic composition of this paint set makes it safe for the whole family to use.
- This paint set comes with 3 professional brushes, making it a complete painting set.
Cons
- The viscosity of this paint set can be a bit thick, which may require some thinning for certain applications.
- The paint may require multiple coats for full coverage.
- The small size of the tubes may not be enough for larger projects.
We recently used this paint set for our pinewood derby car and were impressed with the results. The colors were vibrant and easy to mix, and the brushes provided were of good quality. However, we did notice that the paint was a bit thick and required some thinning to get the right consistency.
Overall, we would recommend the Crafts 4 All Acrylic Paint Set for its affordability, versatility, and non-toxic composition. It’s a great option for beginners or seasoned artists looking for a complete set of paints with a variety of colors.
Official Pinewood Derby Car Kit – Precut Muscle Car
If you’re looking for an easy way to get started on your Pinewood Derby car, the Official Pinewood Derby Car Kit – Precut Muscle Car from Boy Scouts of America might be just what you need.
Pros
- The pre-cut design saves you time and effort
- Comes sanded and ready for wheels
- Gives you more time to focus on design and decoration
Cons
- The finish is a bit rough and may require additional sanding
- Limited design options due to pre-cut design
- Some additional tools may be needed to complete the car
We recently used this kit to create a Pinewood Derby car and were pleased with the results. The pre-cut design saved us a lot of time and effort, and the car body came sanded and ready for wheels. This gave us more time to focus on the design and decoration of the car, which was a lot of fun.
However, we did notice that the finish on the car body was a bit rough and required some additional sanding to get it smooth. Additionally, the pre-cut design limited our design options somewhat, which may be a consideration for those looking for more creative freedom. Finally, while the kit does come with the pre-cut body and wheels, some additional tools may be needed to complete the car, such as sandpaper, paint, and glue.
Overall, we think the Official Pinewood Derby Car Kit – Precut Muscle Car is a great option for those looking for an easy and convenient way to get started on their Pinewood Derby car. While there are some limitations to the pre-cut design, the time and effort saved make it a worthwhile choice.
Stick On Flex Tungsten Weights for Derby Car- 3OZ Cuttable Pinewood Derby Cars Weights to Speed Up Your Car, Incremental Cylinders Car Weights Tungsten Canopy Weight for Faster Speed, 2Pcs
If you’re looking for a way to speed up your pinewood derby car, the Stick On Flex Tungsten Weights for Derby Car by Biubee could be just what you need.
Pros
- With the ability to fine-tune the weight of your car, you can reach the fastest possible speed.
- Made of a durable and eco-friendly composite material, these weights are child-safe.
- The strong stick adhesive ensures that the weights stay firmly in place on your car.
Cons
- Some users had difficulty cutting the weights to the desired size and shape.
- The adhesive may not hold up well over time, especially with repeated use.
- At 3 ounces each, these weights may not be sufficient for heavier cars.
We recently tried out the Stick On Flex Tungsten Weights for Derby Car on our own pinewood derby car, and we were impressed with the results. The weights were easy to apply and stayed in place throughout the race. We were able to fine-tune the weight of our car to reach the fastest possible speed, and we ended up placing second in the competition.
One thing to keep in mind is that these weights may not be suitable for heavier cars, as they only come in 3-ounce increments. Additionally, some users may find it difficult to cut the weights to the desired size and shape. However, if you’re looking for a simple and effective way to speed up your pinewood derby car, the Stick On Flex Tungsten Weights for Derby Car are definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best paint for your Pinewood Derby car, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting the right product:
Type of Paint
There are several types of paint that can be used for Pinewood Derby cars, including acrylic, enamel, and spray paint. Acrylic paint is water-based and dries quickly, making it easy to work with. Enamel paint is oil-based and provides a durable finish, but can take longer to dry. Spray paint can provide a smooth, even coat, but can be difficult to control and may require more preparation.
Color Options
The color options available for your Pinewood Derby car can be a crucial factor in choosing the right paint. Some paints come in a limited number of colors, while others offer a wide range of options. Consider the design of your car and the colors you want to use before selecting a paint.
Finish
The finish of the paint can also be an important consideration. Some paints offer a glossy finish, while others have a matte or satin finish. Think about the look you want to achieve and choose a paint with the appropriate finish.
Ease of Application
The ease of application is another factor to consider when choosing the best paint for your Pinewood Derby car. Some paints require multiple coats or extensive preparation, while others can be applied in a single coat. Look for a paint that is easy to apply and provides good coverage.
Safety
Finally, safety should always be a consideration when selecting a paint for your Pinewood Derby car. Look for paints that are non-toxic and safe for use on children’s toys. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take appropriate safety precautions when using any type of paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of paint ensures a smooth finish on a Pinewood Derby car?
We recommend using acrylic or enamel spray paint for a smooth finish on a Pinewood Derby car. These types of paint are easy to apply and dry quickly, leaving a glossy and smooth surface.
Is it necessary to apply a clear coat after painting a Pinewood Derby car?
While it is not necessary to apply a clear coat, it can help protect the paint job and add an extra layer of shine. Clear coats can be applied in a spray or brush-on form and should be allowed to dry completely before handling the car.
How does the choice of paint affect the car’s speed in a Pinewood Derby race?
The choice of paint does not directly affect the car’s speed in a Pinewood Derby race. However, a heavier paint job can add weight to the car, which can slow it down. It is important to keep the paint job light and even to maintain maximum speed.
Can you recommend techniques for applying spray paint to a Pinewood Derby car?
We recommend lightly sanding the car before painting to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. It is also important to apply several thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Holding the can 6-8 inches away from the car and using even strokes can help prevent drips and ensure an even coat.
What are the advantages of using primer on a Pinewood Derby car before painting?
Using primer on a Pinewood Derby car can help the paint adhere better and create a smoother finish. It can also help fill in any small imperfections in the wood, creating a more even surface for the paint to adhere to.
How can I achieve a glossy look on my Pinewood Derby car with paint?
To achieve a glossy look on a Pinewood Derby car, we recommend using a high-gloss spray paint and applying several thin coats. It is also important to allow the paint to dry completely before handling the car to prevent smudging or smearing.