When I decided to get back into modeling I felt that this time I would devote a space to it that was needed and try to obtain the proper tools. I have found through my experience that having the proper tools is the most important thing in any project.

 I searched all over the net for various hobby paint spray booths. During my search I came across many different DIY projects. This link at Brian’s Model Cars is the one I gathered the most info from.

 http://www.briansmodelcars.com/tutorials/tutorial.asp?TutorialID=23&CurPage=1

 In my searches I found that most if not all where basically the same idea and made of similar materials. Now with me being the cheapest guy on the planet I thought I could do one cheaper…if not better.

 I came up with the design that you see below. The construction is pretty basic and not to hard for anyone with a hobby knife and a few household items. I decided to use cardboard as the material of choice due to the availability, easy to work with, and of course cheap.

 Click To Enlarge

I started the design by first building the basic box to size to accept the 14X20 standard furnace filter. Using a straight edged yard stick to measure out the cardboard and make long straight lines I cut out the basic shape.

 I used basic yellow wood glue to glue the various parts and pieces together and then I sealed the edges with duct tape. The tape was used for mechanical strength and also to provide a smooth edge on the freshly cut cardboard. The last thing I want is a big paper cut when moving the thing around.

 The windows are made of the cheapest clear acrylic sheet I could find. I figure that over time they may have to be cleaned up or tossed so I didn’t break the bank on them. So far they are working fine and since I am only using my airbrush and small rattle cans I don’t see where a lot of over spray is going to happen on the windows.

 The exhaust fan is a DC powered 12-30 volt model. It moves about 150 CFM and I paid 8 dollars for it at Northern Tool. I was skeptical about how well it would work, but I have been very impressed. I attached the fan to a board and then mounted a 4” duct adapter to that so the flexi dryer duct could be attached. 

All in all this is a pretty darn effective paint both and with a little bit of cosmetic help isn’t half bad to look at. Take a look at the photos below for a better view to understand all my ramblings. Also…most importantly…..don’t take my word for it on safety or effectiveness. I was just sharing my experiences, so if you do something silly and blow your hobby room up don’t come blame me or my write up and try to sue me. Repeat what I have done at your own risk.