Machine Enamel Paint in Small Quantities

I wish to paint the aluminium castings of a very small pillar drill I'm rehabilitating and I really want to keep the outlay to a minimum.

I realise that i will have to splash out on an etch primer (U-Pol Acid 8) but I'm hoping I can use that for other projects as well.

Ideally, I would like to use Paragon paint in machine colour of my choice but a 500ml tin is enough for dozens of castings this size.

It's not so much the cost as the waste that I don't like.

Can anyone suggest an alternative? I can't find any sample size tins that would suit me.

Is Humbrol and the like suitable for a job like this? I will be applying it by brush.

Also, the castings are a bit rough and pitted and I think maybe a high bulid primer over the etch primer might help.

Any thoughts on this or any alternative.

Cheers,

Steve

what about the larger size Humbrol tins?

Craftmaster sell 250ml tins for ~£11 plus postage. If you have a stockist ( canal boat chandler is a good bet) near you they might be able to order it in and save postage

Humbrol used to be an oil based enamel, the current water based acrylic version isn't all that brilliant.

The paragon machine enamels really are pretty bulletproof. Turn the tin upside down after using it (with the lid on ) and it'll keep for a very long time

Blackgates sell Phoenix paints and one pack etch primer in tin sizes from 50ml upwards.

Be advised that acid etch primer has a shelf life.

regards Martin

Hammerite smooth works for me. Organic solvent based and readily available in 250ml tins from local DIY sheds.

Rod

Aerosol can of spray putty will help to fill the holes up - get it from an auto factor. Noel.

That's what I have used in the past and been happy with the result.

I'm now starting on a project where I will need some suitable paint but I find (annoyingly) in the past few year since I last bought some Hammerite seem to have completely changed their colour range so I am now in search of an alternative to Hammerite.

Andy

After a bit more Googling I see that in addition to the original "Direct Product" (which is now offered in the new colour range) there's another product "Hammerite No.1 Rustbeater" (which is available in Grey).

I can't really work out the difference between the products but wonder if anyone has experience of this No.1 Rustbeater option?

Andy

In case this helps anyone else....

After spending at least 6 hours last weekend (bit sad I know!) researching on the internet for a suitable product, available in small volume (250ml is more than enough) and at a sensible price I decided to opt for Rust-Oleum Universal Paint (All Surface Paint) in Slate Grey gloss finish. Must say I'm pretty happy with it - really nice to apply and levels out nicely to a flat finish.

Andy