Painting Crankbaits: Need Help Getting Started

[Geno]

Hi guys,
       I am thinking about starting to try painting my own crankbaits. I love looking at what others do and want to try it out myself. I am trying to get all the help I can before I start buying the equipment and stuff. Any help on what equipment to get or stay away from and any tips on how you guys paint them would be much appreciated. Thanks

[BIG M]

Geno, I use an Iwata Eclipse (gravity feed) airbrush and Wildlife colors airbrush paint.
IMHO the best brush and water based paint you can use.   I bought the cheapest 4gal pancake that Harbor Freight had.    I've learned most from trial and error but it was a lot of fun.   You can practice on a piece of white water pipe and the cheap plastic baits are good for that also.

[qweete]

The best gun you can get, no doubt is an iwata hp-c. I have one of those $400 Iwata Microns and prefer the HP-C for cranks, not saying that the Micron doesnt have unbelievable control and precision.I just use a cheap compressor that will get to about 60 psi. Big M is right about wildlife paint being a good product but I prefer createx.JMHO though. Also try some Dick Nite Lure Coat as your clear.It is easy to work with and is the best ive found so far. Start saveing plastic gallons of milk, cutting the smooth plastic of off them makes a great material for stenciling and can easily be cut with a razor. Get your self some isprosphyl? alcohol and lots of paper towels for clean up. Also take very good care of your guns I can not stress how important that is. Befor you even think about painting a crankbait practice getting good with your gun. Get you line thicknesses down and practice spraying through stencils. All in all be patient and it will come to you naturally
Good Luck