Paint a Tank

It's easy and inexpensive to spray paint the back and sides of your tank. Not only will it look better, but your fish will be happier, too!

Before you get started…

• Paint outside on a dry, sunny day when temperatures are above 70F and there is little wind.
• Paint will not adhere to silicone sealant. Remove any excess silicone sealant with a razor blade… not for kids! Be careful and don't break the seal!
• These instructions are for glass tanks, only.
• We have had good results with a variety of paints. Krylon brand spray paints seem to drip the least.
• We recommend the following colors: Black, Blue and Green.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions and be safe!

Step	Pictures
Step 1 Place the tank with the front of the aquarium down on a pair of saw horses. Clean the back and sides of the tank with Windex and a soft, clean cloth.
Step 2 Mask the frame of the tank. We recommend 3M Scotch-Blue™ Painter's Tape for Multi-surfaces available at hardware stores and home centers.
Step 3 Apply a strip of masking tape to the front of the tank. This prevents overspray onto the front glass of the tank.
Step 4 Use newspaper to completely cover the top of the tank. This step prevents paint from adhering to the inside of the aquarium.
Step 5 Paint the sides of the tank. The spray tip should be 6 to 8" from the glass. Tip: Don't overspray. Avoid drips.
Step 6 Paint the back of the tank.
Step 7 It will take a minimum of three coats of paint. In between coats, invert the spray can and spray to clean the nozzle.
Step 8 Look through the bottom of the tank to check for coverage. After three coats, you should not be able to see light through the painted surfaces.
Step 9 Allow the last coat to dry thoroughly. Remove and discard the masking tape. Enjoy your tank!

Photos by Rick Borstein. Demonstration by Sam Borstein.