Disclaimer! :

If you wish to continue reading this howto, you MUST agree not to sue me for it's contents or any idiotic thing you might do with these instructions.  I would like to start out with a VERY stern warning, painting your laptop greatly increases the chances you will destroy or severely damage your expensive piece of hardware.  If this is your first laptop case modification, I would recommend practicing on a piece of less important hardware until you get it perfect.  Once you start this procedure there IS NO GOING BACK!

This is not for the faint of heart, if you don't prepare and have some vague understanding of what your doing ahead of time, forget it. This article is only for those comfortable with never seeing their laptop turn on again (which could happen!).

One should also realize that their health as well as the health of other family members might be at stake.  Aerosol paint makes airborn many carcinogens and other nasty and toxic chemicals.   Without proper ventilation and precautions, one could severely damage his/her own health as well the health of improperly cared for family or friends.  Shortening someone's lifespan (even your own) by not taking a few minutes to prepare a proper workplace is unforgivable.  Take this very seriously!

When completing a step in this 'how to' be sure you have read the entire tutorial at least one time. Each step should be read in its entirety (ie. read all of Disassemble before attempting to disassemble) prior to acting on any individual instruction.

Now that you are willing to accept responsibility for the annihilation of your expensive little laptop, you may continue reading.

Requirements ($33 to $61):

$12 - (2) cans of high gloss plastic spray enamel (Krylon Fusion© is preferable to American Traditions©)

$6 - (1) roll of 2” or wider blue masking tape (normal masking tape will work, but its not recommended)

$14 - (3) sheets of each, high grit sandpapers (200, 400, 600, 800)

$1 - (1) abrasive cleaning sponge (for prepping and cleanup afterward)

$0 - (5) free newspapers, advertisements, etc. (to tarp off the workspace)

*$6 - (1) can of aerosol plastic primer (again if you can, get Krylon© )

*$6 - (1) can of aerosol high gloss clear coat (brand doesn't really matter that much)

*$3 - (1) black felt tip permanent marker (spring the extra $.20 and get a Sharpie© !)

*$5 - (1) tube of wood filler or Bondo© to fill in gouges or depth in the case

*$8 - (1) painting mask

*May be optional depending on what you require though all are highly recommended

Pros:

• Very obviously awesome appearance (see first con)

• Relatively cheap

Cons:

• Very easy to damage appearance (see first pro)

• Requires great patience

• Needs to be performed in the right climate (temperature and humidity)

• Time consuming

• Physically dangerous

• Risking wanton destruction to laptop and neighboring room space

• Alienating