If you’ve ever wondered how to paint your Xbox One controller or create a custom Xbox One controller, you’ve come to the right place.
While painting an Xbox One controller is not that difficult, learning how to properly paint the controller so the finish looks professional and lasts for years to come takes some additional time and care.
We’ll walk you through the ins and outs of how to paint an Xbox controller, including prepping, painting, and properly finishing your controller shell.
What You Need
- Plastic Adhesion Promoter
- Plastic Primer (White)
- Plastic Paint (Recommended)
- Clear Enamel/Coat
- Plastic Trim Tool
- Scuff Pad/Scotch-Brite
- Nitrile Gloves
- Respirator
- Canvas Drop Cloth
- Xbox One Controller
*Before getting started you’ll want to put down a canvas drop cloth, put your nitrile gloves on, and make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area.
Step 1: Clean Controller with Soap and Water
The first part of this tutorial on how to paint your Xbox One controller is pretty straight forward: wash your controller.
You’ll want to wash your controller with hot water and dish soap (recommended) in order to remove any large imperfections, dirt, oil, and other contaminants.
Why is washing your controller important? Throughout this tutorial, you’ll realize that the painting step is actually the least important: it’s the cleaning, prep, and finish.
If you don’t prep your controller properly, the paint will come off as soon as your hands get hot and/or sweaty – we don’t want that to happen.
Step 2: Scuff Your Controller
The next step in properly prepping your Xbox One controller is to scuff the surface of the controller with a Scotch-Brite pad.
The purpose of the scuff pad is to remove any of the previous finish on the controller and prep the plastic so we can start painting.
Before scuffing your controller, you may want to put nitrile gloves on to prevent any dust, debris, oil, or other contaminants on the controller.
If the controller feels rough to the touch, you’re doing it right.
Next, we’ll do one more round of cleaning before applying plastic adhesion promoter to the controller.
Step 3: Clean Controller with Alcohol Pad or Rubbing Alcohol
As part of a final clean, you’ll want to take an alcohol pad or a paper towel and rubbing alcohol to do a final once-over on the controller.
This is important to remove any dust, oil, debris, or other contaminants that may have got on to the controller during the previous step.
Next, we’ll break out the spray paint cans.
Step 4: Apply Plastic Adhesion Promoter
If you were able to get your hands on a can of plastic adhesion promoter (we recommend it, but it’s not 100% necessary), the next step is to apply it to the clean controller.
In short, controlled bursts, while holding the can 8-10 inches away from the surface, start to apply the plastic adhesion promoter.
Once you’ve finished covering the entire controller, let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, or until the controller appears to be dry.
Next, we’ll apply the primer.
Step 5: Apply Plastic Primer
After applying the plastic adhesion promoter and letting the controller sit for 10-15 minutes, the next thing we’ll be doing is applying the plastic primer.
The primer serves two purposes:
- Helps cover old paint
- Helps prep the controller for paint
I recommend white primer as it gives you a variety of options for covering up old paint as well as making it easy for any color of new paint to go on.
Much like the plastic adhesion promoter, apply the plastic primer in short, controlled bursts.
Keep it limited to one layer, and make sure all areas of the controller are covered (you don’t have to do the inside).
After you apply the primer, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, or until the controller appears to be dry.
Now, we actually get to paint the controller!
Step 6: Apply Plastic Paint
After applying the plastic primer and letting the controller sit for 10-15 minutes, the next thing we’ll be doing is applying the plastic paint.
You can pick any type of paint, or paint color that you want. However, I recommend plastic paint, just to be safe, and a darker color to prevent any potential discoloration.
It’s really important to start your paint stream away from the controller – thanks to a friendly reader, they pointed out it will prevent some of the dripping you see in our video and lead to a better end productd.
Keep it limited to one or two layers, and make sure all areas of the controller are covered (you don’t have to do the inside).
After you apply the plastic paint, let it sit for 25-30 minutes, or until the controller appears to be dry.
Last but not least, we’ll apply a clear enamel (or clear coat) to make sure the paint is protected, and finish lasts a long time.
Step 7: Apply Clear Enamel or Clear Coat
The final step in properly and professionally painting your Xbox One controller is to apply a clear enamel – better known as a clear coat.
I would recommend buying a specific automotive clear coat, or going to your local AutoZone, Napa, etc. to purchase.
You’ll still want to use short, controlled bursts to cover all areas of the controller. However, you’ll want to apply 3-4 thin layers, and wait about 5 minutes in between each layer.
It’s important to note: You need to apply a second, third, and fourth coat within 5 minutes of each other, or wait 24 hours for the enamel to completely dry.
The enamel will take 5-7 days to completely harden. Although you can use it before this, I would recommend waiting so you have the best possible finish.
You Painted your Xbox One controller!
Congratulations! You painted your very own custom Xbox One controller.
Although it can seem overwhelming at first, a little planning, proper cleaning and prep, and the right tools will help you get a professional-looking custom Xbox One controller in just a few hours.
Have any ideas for cool gaming accessories you painted? What about pictures of your own custom painted Xbox One controller?
Drop a comment in the comments below – we would love to hear from you!
Don’t forget to visit XboxDIY on YouTube, follow us on Twitter, or head over to our help section for your Xbox DIY questions.
Now that you know how to properly paint your Xbox One controller, don’t be afraid to try it out on other things! Headsets, consoles, etc. – the opportunities are endless!
68 Comments
your mom
If we don’t use the plastic adhesion promoter, will the results turn out the same as if you used it? If not, what are the differences?
Colin N.
I didn’t know my mom visited this site! Regardless, I would recommend using it if you can find it. Plastic is really tricky. If you absolutely can’t, just make sure the controller surface is scuffed really well. I painted a controller the first time with literally zero prep and believe it or not, there’s still a decent amount of paint on there. It’s also on my hands (because of no clear coat), but you should be ok in a pinch. Maybe just try the battery pack first and see how it works? Thanks for stopping by!
your mom
your welcome son. Thanks for the answer lol
Colin N.
Any time! Thanks for stopping by. Let us know if you have any other topics you want us to cover!
Nicholas
Hey there! May I ask if acrylic paint is avaliable to replace the spray. Since I am trying to work on some details on it after I used the plastic adhesion promoter.
Colin N.
Hi there! Would you mind clarifying your question? If you’re talking about using a different type of paint so that you can add some drawings, stickers, etc. on there – you can pretty much use whatever you want for the color layer, granted it’s safe to use on plastics (check the label and/or test on a small area first). If you’re talking about doing something like a base white layer and then some type of color highlights I think that could be really cool! Never thought about it much but might do a live stream if people are interested 🙂 Let me know if this answered you’re question – I’ll get back to you ASAP if not. Thanks for stopping by!
Sue
This is the exact question I’ve been looking all over for an answer to. Thank you!
룰렛
Best Ballons around here !
FitDaily
Thanks for info and tips! Did a custom glitter job for my daughter that turned out great. Wish I could add a pic to the comments.
Sheila
I have read so many posts concerning the blogger lovers however
this article is actually a fastidious paragraph, keep it up.
Arnulfo
Aw, this was an extremely nice post. Taking
the time and actual effort to generate a
good article… but what can I say… I hesitate a whole lot and don’t seem to get anything done.
Alexis
Excellent post. Keep posting such kind of information on your site.
Im really impressed by your blog.
Hi there, You’ve done an excellent job. I’ll definitely digg
it and in my opinion recommend to my friends. I am sure they’ll
be benefited from this site.
Evie
Article writing is also a excitement, if you be familiar with afterward you
can write if not it is complex to write.
Darin
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I truly appreciate your efforts and I will be
waiting for your further post thank you once again.
Lavonne
A motivating discussion is worth comment. I think that you ought to write
more about this subject, it may not be a taboo
subject but generally folks don’t speak about these issues.
To the next! Kind regards!!
Sharyl
Hi there, just became aware of your blog through Google, and found
that it is truly informative. I am gonna watch out for brussels.
I’ll be grateful if you continue this in future. Numerous people will
be benefited from your writing. Cheers!
Elsie
Evｅrything은 문제에 대한 간단한 설명으로 매우 개방적입니다.
유익한 정보가 필요하지 않습니다. 귀하의 사이트 iis 사용. Мany
공유해 주셔서 감사합니다!
Ꮇy blog post – Free BTC
public accountin
I absolutely love your blog.. Excellent colors & theme. Did you create this site yourself? Please reply back as I’m looking to create my own blog and want to learn where you got this from or just what the theme is named. Thanks!
Dorian Criscuolo
I am impressed with this internet site, real I am a fan.
Johnnie
Great info. Lucky me I recently found yur blog by accident (stumbleupon).
I’ve book marked it for later!
Here is my web blog: eye wrinkle treatment options
Carylon Maske
Very good post! We are linking to this great article on our site. Keep up the good writing.
slot online free credit
Hi there! I could have sworn I’ve been to this site before but after reading through some of the post I realized it’s new to me. Nonetheless, I’m definitely glad I found it and I’ll be book-marking and checking back frequently!
Marlo Mayhood
Esto nos permite ofrecer a nuestros clientes grandes series de piezas de revolución con alta calidad y precisión y bajo coste. Si necesitas una empresa que fabrique piezas de calidad, seriedad en los plazos de entrega, fiabilidad. El contenido de la información de Talleres Decoletaje La Precision Sl, empresa ubicada en Tarazona De La Mancha, proceden de la base de datos de INFORMA D&B.
Isidra
I used to be recommended this web site through my cousin. I am
no longer sure whether this post is written by him as no one
else understand such precise approximately my trouble.
You’re incredible! Thank you!
fonts
What’s up friends, its enormous paragraph regarding educationand entirely explained, keep it up all the time.
Genia
Right now it sounds like WordPress is the top blogging platform available right now.
(from what I’ve read) Is that what you’re using on your blog?
get money
Nice response in return of this issue with firm arguments and explaining everything about that.
Ashleigh
Wonderful post! We are linking to this great
post on our site. Keep up the good writing.
Romaine
I do agree with all the ideas you have introduced for your post.
They’re very convincing and will certainly work.
Still, the posts are too short for beginners. May just you please extend them a bit from next time?
Thank you for the post. adreamoftrains hosting services
Victorina
Do you have a spam problem on this site; I also am a blogger, and I was wanting to know your
situation; we have developed some nice procedures and we are looking
to swap techniques with other folks, be sure to shoot me an e-mail if interested.
adreamoftrains hosting services
Deloris
Great site you’ve got here.. It’s hard to find good
quality writing like yours these days. I seriously appreciate
people like you! Take care!!
Romona Juett
Hey I know this is off topic but I was wondering if you knew of any widgets I could add to my blog thatautomatically tweet my newest twitter updates. I’ve been lookingfor a plug-in like this for quite some time and was hoping maybe you would have someexperience with something like this. Please let me know if you run into anything.I truly enjoy reading your blog and I look forward toyour new updates.
คา สิ โน แจก เงิน เล่น ฟรี
diabetes is serious disease that should not taken lightly!
Elinor
Remarkable! Its truly remarkable piece of writing, I have
got much clear idea regarding from this paragraph.
free v bucks
I’m excited to discover this great site. I want to to thank you for ones time due to this fantastic read!! I definitely appreciated every bit of it and I have you book-marked to look at new information on your site.
free v bucks
I was very happy to discover this page. I need to to thank you for ones time for this fantastic read!! I definitely savored every little bit of it and I have you saved to fav to see new stuff on your website.
putlockers new name 2018
I like what you guys are up too. Such smart work and reporting! Keep up the superb works guys I’ve incorporated you guys to my blogroll. I think it’ll improve the value of my site :)We used DoodleMaker for explainer video. They have launch discount: http://doodlemaker.getyours.gq/
Meredith
This piece of writing presents clear idea in support of the new visitors oof blogging, that actually how to do blogging.
Wayne
Do you have any video of that? I’d want to find out some
additional information.
Here is my blog: 안전 토토 사이트 (Dorthy)
Tegan
You could definitely see your enthusiasm in the work you
write. The sector hopes for more passionate writers like you who are not
afraid to say how they believe. Always go after your heart.
Jaqueline
This piece of writing is in fact a good one it assists new the web visitors,
who are wishing in favor of blogging.
Here is my homepage … 부스타빗
안전사이트
Love to see this every day !
Jed
Howdy are using WordPress for your site platform?
I’m new to the blog world but I’m trying to get started and create my own. Do you require any html coding expertise to make your own blog?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Also visit my web site :: 파워볼실시간
Herman
I really ⅼike it when individuals come together and share opinions.
Great website, continue the gоod ѡork!
Eugene
Hey very nice blog!
Here is my homepage 현금 섯다
free v bucks deathrun code
Aw, this was an exceptionally nice post. Spending some time and actual effort to generate a really good article… but what can I say… I put things off a whole lot and don’t seem to get nearly anything done.
Raymon
I don’t even know how I endеd up һere, but I thought
thiѕ post was good. I don’t know wh᧐ you are but definitely you’re going to a famous ƅloggеｒ if you are not already
😉 Cheers!
Benny
This is very interesting, You are a very skilled blogger.
I’ve joined your rss feed and stay up for looking for
extra of your excellent post. Additionally, I have shared your site in my
social networks
Chet
Do you mind if I quote a couple of your posts as
long as I provide credit and sources back to your weblog? My website is in the exact same area of interest as yours and my visitors would truly
benefit from some of the information you provide here.
Please let me know if this okay with you.
Thanks a lot!
My site … 부스타빗
Denice
I used to be suggested this blog via my cousin. I am no longer sure whether
or not this publish is written through him as nobody else know such distinct about my problem.
You’re amazing! Thank you!
my web page 온라인홀덤
Roosevelt
Why users still make use of to read news papers when in this technological world the
whole thing is presented on net?
Rocky
An outstanding share! I’ve just forwarded this onto a co-worker who has been doing a little homework on this.
And he actually bought me breakfast due to the fact that I
discovered it for him… lol. So let me reword this….
Thank YOU for the meal!! But yeah, thanx for spending the time to talk about this topic here on your site.
my blog post … 먹튀폴리스 (https://blip.fm/fanlocket54)
Isabell
Every weekend i used to visit this web site, for the
reason that i want enjoyment, since this this web page conations in fact pleasant funny
information too.
Feel free to surf to my blog … 부스타 빗 정식 사이트 (Sx6y.com)
Claudia
Wow, incredible blog layout! How long have you been blogging for?
you made blogging look easy. The overall look of
your site is fantastic, as well as the content!
Devkwramp
can you buy viagra in mexico without perscription viagra online canadareview woman viagra
Kmrfapen
leg pain after taking viagra https://purevigra.com/ 25 vs 50 mg viagra
Frbhwramp
viagra no prescription https://paradiseviagira.com brand viagra
Jivhjuila
national viagra day march 27 stan tutaj viagra download efectos del viagra para mujeres
Fbsgplows
kriegt man viagra in der apotheke have you ordered viagra online viagra 100 mg didnt work
Lakiesha Torell
it’s running on the batteries at mode 4.
Dbsfwramp
viagra tablets in india buy online viagra tablet female viagra for sale online
Deeanna Nicklas
this watch is heavy
Kbrgapen
viagra uk best price sildenafil 90 mg viagra price malaysia
Fbsbplows
is viagra safe for healthy men does viagra show up in blood tests can i get more than one erection with viagra
Fdbvwramp
name brand viagra online cheap viagra overnight delivery viagra.com
Jswejuila
sildenafil 50mg best price where can you purchase female viagra viagra tablets price in uk
Fmsgplows
viagra pille scherzartikel donde comprar viagra en tucuman viagra truck commercial
Dvscwramp
case study reports finance assignment help online essay writing website