As an owner of Apple AirPods, I was getting frustrated with their plain white look. After doing some research, I wanted to share what I discovered about whether I could paint my AirPods and other solutions I came across. In this blog post, I will discuss the options available for customizing your AirPods, from painting them to adding wraps or decals. So if you’re wondering if you can paint your AirPods, read on for the answers!
It is possible to paint your AirPods. However, it is recommended that you do not do it because the paint may damage the AirPods or reduce their audio quality.
If you own a pair of AirPods but you are tired of the same old look, you might be thinking of adding a bit of color to them.
Discovering what types of paints and materials can be used to add some pizazz to your earbuds can help you make the most out of every pair you own.
Table of Contents
Stickers, Wraps, and decals
Wraps and decals for your AirPods are available for purchase online and in stores. You can find a variety of designs and styles to make your AirPods stand out.
Pros: Can be easily removed and replaced whenever desired. Can be done relatively quickly.
Cons: May not be as durable as painting and can be more expensive.
Can I paint my AirPods?
The short answer is yes, with the proper materials.
However, it is important to note that painting any electronic device may cause the device to work improperly, or it may cause permanent damage to internal wiring and/or chips. In order to ensure your AirPods are completely protected, there are a few steps to take during the preparation of the painting.
Read more: Why do my AirPods keep cutting out on PC?
What type of paint can be used on Apple AirPods?
Apple AirPods are made from traditional polycarbonate plastic, with a shiny and glossy covering, meaning it is not easy to add color or new materials to the surface. One type of paint that will work better than others to paint your AirPods is an acrylic paint base.
How do I prepare my AirPods for paint?
Before you dive in and begin painting your AirPods, it is imperative to prep and clean your AirPods beforehand.
Clean your AirPods using an alcohol base solution to eliminate any dirt, grime, or bacteria from the AirPods themselves. Having a clean working surface is also ideal for any craft project, especially when working with various types of paints.
Use a q-tip or a cotton ball to swab the exterior of the AirPods with a surface that has been dampened with rubbing alcohol (or another electronic-friendly cleaner of your choice).
It is essential to avoid allowing any rubbing alcohol or cleaner into the cracks, openings, and crevices of your AirPods.
Keep an eye out for fingerprints that are obvious and visible on your AirPods. Greasy and oily fingerprints can make it more difficult to paint your AirPods once you begin, especially since you are working on such a small surface.
If possible, wear latex or craft gloves while working with your AirPods to prep them to paint to prevent the buildup of excess fingerprints and oil.
Read more: Why do my AirPods keep cutting out on Spotify?
Allow your AirPods to dry completely
Dry the AirPods from any excess cleaner or rubbing alcohol using a paper towel to avoid allowing any moisture inside of the AirPods. It is advisable to allow your AirPods to sit and dry before you begin adding primer and/or paint to the earbuds.
Never begin painting on any surface with rubbing alcohol that has not yet dried. Wet rubbing alcohol can and will affect the chemistry and overall composition of a material, including acrylic or spray paint. Ensure that the surface of your AirPods is entirely dry before you begin to apply any type of primer or paint for the best results.
How can I protect the speakers and openings of my AirPods before painting them?
If possible, use small cuts of electrical tape to cover any openings on your AirPods, including the speakers themselves, as well as the smaller openings on the backside of the AirPods.
Is it possible to use sandpaper to help prime my AirPods?
Using super-fine sandpaper (120-220 grit) may allow you to remove the shine, gloss, and covering of your AirPods.
However, this may result in a rougher texture that requires extra-fine sandpaper, such as 240-400 grit. The higher the grit, the more fine the sandpaper is, and the less likely it is to do too much damage to the original surface of an item or any type of material.
It is important to note that although it is possible to use extra-fine sandpaper to help smooth the surface of your AirPods, it is not always necessary.
If you are already planning to use a primer on your AirPods, you can skip this step and avoid sanding your AirPods altogether.
Should I use a primer when painting AirPods?
It is highly advisable to use a primer when you are in the process of prepping and painting AirPods. A traditional paint primer for acrylic paints is highly recommended if you intend to use acrylic paints with traditional brushes as applicators.
If you are thinking of spray painting your AirPods, there are also spray paint primers available. Spray paint primers can be applied much quicker and typically come with a spray applicator.
It is also possible to use a spray paint primer even if you intend to paint the base of your AirPods with acrylic paint.
What are the benefits of using a primer?
Using a primer helps to prime and prepare the surface of the AirPods you intend to paint. Because the original AirPods surface is shiny, glossy, and made of polycarbonate plastic, it can be difficult to get the color, look, and overall aesthetic if your surface is not properly primed.
Using a primer adds an additional layer that allows for smooth application of various types of paints, including acrylic and spray paint. Primers are ideal for any surface that may be difficult or for surfaces that are already painted and/or coated with another material, such as AirPods.
As always, allow the primer to dry completely before you move to the next step of painting the AirPods.
Painting AirPods
Once you have cleaned, prepped, and primed your AirPods, you can begin painting them using the acrylic paint of your choice or the spray paint and spray paint applicator of your choosing.
Use a brush that is not only small, but one with immense precision. Investing in a high-quality paintbrush is advisable whenever you are working on projects that involve pricey gadgets, electronics, or wearables.
Because of the small size of AirPods, it is important to take your time, remain patient, and stay calm throughout the entire process.
If you choose to use a spray paint applicator to paint your AirPods, verify that all of the holes as well as the speakers themselves are covered and sealed properly.
Sealing AirPods paint
Allow the paint you have applied to your AirPods to dry completely. Even if you believe the paint is dry, it is advisable to leave a project to dry anywhere from 12-24 hours, depending on the number of layers you use during the painting itself.
Once your AirPods have dried completely, apply a sealant to the pods before removing any electrical tape and/or protective covers from your AirPods speakers.
A sealant will not only help you to seal the paint you have used onto your AirPods, but it is also possible to add a gloss or matte effect to your AirPods with the sealant of your choice.
Whether you use AirPods while traveling for work or if you love using your AirPods during your entire daily routine, painting your AirPods can genuinely allow you to show off your style and personality.
Taking the time to clean, prep, and brainstorm your design ahead of time can help you create an AirPods design that is truly fitting for you.
Pros of Painting Your AirPods
- A custom color or design can make your AirPods stand out
- You can choose from a wide variety of colors and designs
- Adding a sealant can also add a glossy or matte effect to your AirPods
Cons of Painting Your AirPods
- Painting your AirPods may cause damage to the device or reduce its audio quality
- Can be time consuming and require a lot of preparation
- Painting your AirPods may void the warranty
