Painting the shells of Sea Ponies

[jrr74]

Has anyone painted a clam shell from the first set of sea ponies to match the color of a clam shells from the second set?  Would this be considered a cardinal sin?  I have an extra shell (purple or pink) the I am very tempted to paint lavender for High Tide.  Even if I could find a shell for High Tide, they are so expensive to purchase.  Any suggestion on what would be the best kind of paint to use to adhere to plastic?

Thanks

[Aadra310]

I'm a bit of a purist, so I personally wouldn't paint a perfectly good shell (flawed stuff is a different story!).  Instead, you might keep on eye on this member: http://mlparena.com/index.php/topic,373398.msg1462663.html#msg1462663

You could sell your double to put some of that money towards a reproduction.  That's totally what I'm going to do as I'm right with you on the price and scarcity of the 2nd wave shells!

However, if you do decide to paint yours, I recommend using a make-up sponge versus a brush to eliminate stroke marks.  This will take several coats but is worth the time.  I use just plain old acrylic cheap craft paints from Hobby Lobby.  Sometimes, you need to mix with a little water depending on the paint thickness.

[Baby Sugarberry]

Assuming you want to use the painted shell for display, it'd be pretty risky - paint has the nasty habit of not staying where you put it, and vinyl just loves to pick up dyes of any kind via contact. 

[hathorcat]

I think the finish would be hard to achieve unfortunately to make it completely worth your while.

Its not a sin of course As its your shell to do as you wish with. I would simply note that even the common ones hold a rather good value which means its quite an expensive experiment potentially.

They are a nightmare to track down and it can take years of searching plus a lot of luck and some $$ savings. If it was me I would save while keeping up the search. However, if you do decide to try, I really hope you can get the perfect shade

[jrr74]

Thank you Aadra 310 for pointing out that link.  I will definitely keep an eye out on a lavender clam shell.  I will hold off on painting my clam shell and just save my money for one of the originals unless or course I can get ahold of a replica.  Thank you everyone for your input and know that you helped save a perfectly good shell