Instrument painting advice needed

Subject: Instrument painting advice needed
From: Kaleea
Date: 13 Sep 06 - 08:34 PM

I recently was given a poor, pathetic, horribly made Pakistani harp which by no means could be described as a Musical instrument. Plucking a string gives all the sonority as a plunked Qtip. Other than that, it is quite pretty to look at, and has a nice furniture quality finish. (ok, my tongue was definitely in my cheek on that one!)
Therefore, I've decided to paint some lovely Celtic designs on it to at least give the poor thing the appearance of dignity.
I'm wondering if I need to use some type of cleaner on the finish for the spots where I'm going to paint the designs? If so, what specific product might I use?
               Thanks!

Subject: RE: Instrument painting advice needed
From: Sorcha
Date: 13 Sep 06 - 08:39 PM

I think it's called TSP. Ask at the hardware store. Takes the shine off. We used it to clean panelled walls before painting. Worked just fine.

Subject: RE: Instrument painting advice needed
From: GUEST,Bee
Date: 13 Sep 06 - 10:23 PM

If you use artist quality tube acrylics, just a good cleaning with a little water and liquid detergent should do you fine. It just has to be non-greasy. If the finish is outrageously shiny, you might want to sand the to-be-painted area a little. Coat with a clear acrylic or latex varnish for protection.

Bet it will look right purty when you're done!

Subject: RE: Instrument painting advice needed
From: Sorcha
Date: 13 Sep 06 - 10:32 PM

Sand with 000 steel wool. Put a poly over the paint.

Subject: RE: Instrument painting advice needed
From: Elmer Fudd
Date: 13 Sep 06 - 11:01 PM

I second the advice about the artist's acrylics in tubes and a coat of clear varnish.

Subject: RE: Instrument painting advice needed
From: GUEST,Jack Campin
Date: 14 Sep 06 - 04:56 AM

Why not turn it into a cool modern funky harp by painting it with electric blue Hammerite?

Subject: RE: Instrument painting advice needed
From: JamesHenry
Date: 14 Sep 06 - 05:25 AM

By the sound of it you should treat it with a blow torch.