Su77en187

So I've decide it would be a cheaper alternative for me to work on my case instead of seeking profesional help, and it'll also be a great experience, I suppose. First off, I want to paint the interior of my case matte/flat black and then do a window mod. Then probably I'll cut out the 'interior' mesh on the top and front panel. Just to let everyone know, I have the CM690 case. It is fully stock, no mods whatsoever.

I know that there are quite a few options as to paint the interior of the case, but I'm going for cheap and fast, so I think resorting to spray paint would be a good start for a first-timer (unless you guys suggest otherwise). My question is:

-Do I need to sand the case and then prime before I spray paint it?
-Can I just clean the case and spray paint immediately WITHOUT sanding or the use of prime?

Second mod is the window mod. I've seen a couple of videos on Youtube (specifically ). I was wondering:

-What should I use for the window panel i.e. acrylic, plexiglass, etc.? Where do I get these?
-What thickness is preferred?
-Instead of using tape to adhere to the side panel, I want to use screws, how would that be done?
-I don't want to use molding for the edges. How do I make the edges smooth? Just use a hand file?
-How would I make holes for the side panel for fans? Yes I do want fans. Do I use a drill? Would that damage the material?

I am new to this, so correct me if anything sounds wrong here. Give me advice, suggestions and the likes. I want to get this done this weekend (if possilbe). Most likely I will be picking up the needed equipment tomorrow.

If I think of anymore questions, I will be updating this post.

Anyways, thanks in advance for any opinion, help, suggestions and advice. I will very much appreciate it =)

InfernoReaper

- I'm sure you COULD clean-and-spray (which I've done on non-computer items and it worked ok), but the majority here have had good results priming and sanding beforehand.

-Not sure
-I assume you would drill holes the same size as the screw into the case and panel, then put the screws in to thread it the first time.
-Probably a high grit sandpaper, maybe ~400.
-I've heard you can use hole saws but there is a fair chance of cracking the panel with it.

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Robilar

I've done several cases without sanding without issue.

Primer is necessary though. Without it, the paint may not go on evenly and will scratch more easily.

to smooth metal edges, use a dremel buffing attachment. It will smooth them down quite quickly.

Juggalo23451

where to get Acrylic
http://www.delviesplastics.com/

http://www.mcmaster.com/#acrylic/=1on1ks

Local hardware store

Paint guides
http://www.overclock.net/case-mods-g...ng-mirror.html

http://www.overclock.net/case-mods-g...ing-guide.html

How to make fan holes

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Su77en187

First off, thanks for the replies guys!

I'm hoping I don't need to do too much work here! Just clean-and-spray! I guess hole saws out of the question. I don't want to damage anything or at least be careful for my first mod.


Whew, that's good to hear. Sanding seems like it would take for every with hands.

Thanks for the links! Very helpful. What are the usual preference for thickness for acrylic for the side panel?

clbkdaz

It's actually a little easier than you might think. If you use duct tape to mask off the area you can cut down the risk of nicking areas you don't intend to.
Also - I can speak from experience on this...Don't be fooled into thinking that a cordless 7v drill is gonna turn that hole saw fast enough to cut through metal...
And on the other side...one of those Hammer Drill's (the one with the side handle) is gonna have so much torque that your gonna smack yourself in the knee with enough force to have you limping for the rest of the week.

A good 12v - 18v drill should do just fine.



Like Robilar said....

The buffer attachment for the dremel works wonders. You can even use the side of the cut off wheels to clean up those edges.

3mm (1/8" roughly) and 5mm (3/16") are pretty much what you will be able to find. You might even check locally for a plastics store/supplier that might carry it. We have one here in Phoenix that charges like $5.00 a sq. ft. and has sheets of the stuff in every color and size.

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Su77en187

Yeah my dad have an 18v drill and stuff. I just need to pick it up from him. Currently still looking for the materials and I'll be starting whenever I'm free from school. Thanks for the help!