Powder Coating...

[tjk3052]

I'm tired of rattle cans and want to start powder coating my boxes. I already have a small compressor that was used for an air brush, and a cheap toaster oven not used for cooking. Can I just order something like what Eastwood sells and go for it? Is there a steep learning curve, or anything I should know? Is this something that can be done in a basement or garage without making a huge mess?

Also- What's the best way to put clear powder coating over graphics? I bought some bake-on waterslides to try, is there a better way? I know screen printing would be best, but I'm not doing big volumes to justify the cost.

[sacizob]

What kind of boxes?

[Phat-o-Caster]

As long as your metal boxes fit in the electric oven,I like to gently hang the part on a rack and then ease it in for baking, you should be good. I've done small motorcycle parts with great sucess and its no more of a mess than sanding a piece of wood & it cleans up easily with a vacuum. I got a Harbor freight gun and use their powder-the store's about 10 mins from the house- Eastwood is a great resource for powder & I'm sure their guns are higher quality but the little I do the HF gun is OK. Have fun, Brian
http://www.harborfreight.com/10-30-p...tem-94244.html

[tjk3052]

I went to HF yesterday. They didnt have a gun, but I picked up a regulator, filter, and some fittings for super cheap. I ordered the Hot Coat gun from Eastwood. I'm excited to try it - if I never use a rattle can again I'll die happy.

What steps do you use to prep the boxes?