Painting on ripstop

[robotvox]

Has anybody ever experimented with painting on kites? I heard about this stuff called Design Master, a spray paint thats made for dried flowers, but supposedly works for kites as well. Here is a link to a gallery from a guy who makes/paints kites with the same paint, pretty cool stuff:

http://picasaweb.google.com/mshampton2

Anyhow, I was wondering if anybody on the forum might have any experience with this or any type of paint that works on ripstop. I've got 1or 2 protos that are itching for a paint job. I guess my main concern is, how heavy is the paint going to be? I dont want to weigh my kite down noticeably.

[Greg]

Thats pretty cool art but I'm not to sure about the waterproofing factor....
L.M.G.

[robotvox]

I think the paints are pretty permanent, although a little salt water scrubbing every now and then and a regular sunlight regimen will surely speed the fading process!
My big fear though is that the chemicals in the paint might weaken the fabric. That would be bad. :(
The two factors for this brand being recommended was its ability to stick to the ripstop nylon and its translucency, which shows nicely in the photos. I think I am going to give it a try, I have the design and blank kite burning a hole in my pocket. I guess I can do a small sample on an old c kite and see how it takes.

[windhorny]

I used to paint my logo on my kites and used krylon for plastics. Towards the end of the season i would get some cracks and missing paint in areas but not bad. Ultimately i grew tired of selling the kite with a logo on it. Because no one wanted to see windhorny written all over their new kite for some wierd reason :)

[adamT]

what about using sail repair tape? just a thought.. Might end up being too heavy...

[maxsteamer]

Hello Kiters,

Don't paint your kite!!!! use sail tape it is the only thing that works on any kite or sail.. after a few sessions in the bay part of your hard work will be history fo sho....

[robotvox]

Appreciate your concern Max, but as an artist, my hard work is expendable. I'm only worried for the kite.

[robotvox]

and I already bought the paint...

Right now I'm actually trying to get my hands on an lcd projector to trace the original art onto the kite. Anybody have one to loan/rent?

[Greg]

and I already bought the paint...

Right now I'm actually trying to get my hands on an lcd projector to trace the original art onto the kite. Anybody have one to loan/rent?

Now you've got my interest!!
Seems I've got EVERYTHING you'll WANT for your adventure.....

And don't worry about your kite.. I've got a 07 15m Fuel that is in perfect shape and ready to practice on.. Also here in Oakland I can supply you with a shop at your disposal, Air- brush, spray equipment- Killer projector etc, POWER and plunty of light/DARK...
I also have a few colors...

All I want in return is to watch you work, maybe assist a bit-
L.M.G. (510) 882-9389

[robotvox]

Wow, thanks Greg, that's mighty generous of you, hard to pass up on the offer! I'll give you a call.
-mike
p.s. pm sent