How To Paint Speaker Box-A complete Guide For Own Paint

Did you get bored by your old speaker box? You can add some spice to your speaker box by adding customized paint. It’ll add an extra level of aesthetic to your room.

However, before you start, first check what type of speaker box you have. Some cabinets are equipped with detachable speakers. While removing the speakers makes customizing a little simpler, sealed cabinets with fabric shutters may also be painted, provided the surface is properly prepped before the painting begins.

So if you want to customize the box on your own, you should know how to paint a speaker box. But before painting, refinishing the surface is even more important. That’s why we’ll talk about the refinishing of the surface. Let’s start.

How To Refinish The Surface For Paint

Here’re some steps that you can follow if you want to refinish the speaker surface by yourself.

  • Place a blanket on a flat area and set it aside. Place the speaker box on top of the blanket.
  • You can use an orbital sander to smooth the edges of the speaker cabinet. It may be necessary to use lower grit sandpaper, such as 80-grit, to remove the previous finish quickly. As soon as you’ve removed all of the previous finish from the speaker box, resand the whole surface of the wood using 180-grit sandpaper.
  • Apply wood putty to any holes or defects. Allow 15 minutes for the wood putty to dry completely. If necessary, sand the putty with a sander and 180-grit sandpaper to smooth it out.
  • Remove any dust that has accumulated on the speaker cabinet as a result of sanding.
  • Using a cleaning cloth, apply a wood stain to the cabinet’s surface. The excess stain should be removed using a second cleaning cloth. Stain the whole box and allow it to cure completely before moving on. Check the label on the stain can for the suggested drying time.
  • Using a paintbrush, apply a clear protective lacquer to the speaker cabinet to keep it looking new. Only a tiny quantity should be applied at a time in order to prevent runs in the finish. Even strokes in the finish can be achieved with a paintbrush and a small amount of water. Make your way around the cabinet until it is completely finished.
  • Lightly polish the cabinet with steel wool to get a smooth surface.

How To Paint A Speaker Box Step by Step Process

Painting a speaker box can be a tricky thing if you don’t know how to do it. That’s why follow the given steps to make the process even simpler.

Step 1: Removing All Cords

Speaker box designs differ from various perspectives, so consult the unit’s owner’s handbook for further information.

With that being said, first of all, remove the speakers from the box if they’re still there. Then remove the screws on the front of a speaker with a screwdriver. It means you’re allowing the speaker horn to be pulled out of the speaker housing.

Step 2: Wiping Off

With a slightly moist towel, wipe off the box inside thoroughly. Then use an all-purpose spray for cleaning a variety of different surfaces. Just be sure to wipe it dry as soon as possible, particularly if it’s on wood.

Step 3: Covering Some Parts

Cover any parts of the box that you don’t want to be painted with paper, adhering it in place using masking tape to create a clean edge and keeping it in place while painting. If the speaker box is equipped with a non-removable fabric grille, be sure you thoroughly cover it.

Step 4: Tidying Up The Edges

With a utility knife, tidy up the margins of the masked area so that the lines are crisp and clear.

Step 5: Applying The Primer

Priming should be applied to the exposed area after it’s sufficiently ventilated and that any adjacent surfaces are covered with newspaper. If you plan on painting the box a dark color, a tinted primer will be helpful. Make sure everything is totally dry before continuing.

Step 6: Applying More Coats For Durability

Spray enamel over the top of the dried priming layer to seal it in. Allow the paint to dry fully before applying a second layer if needed. Then wait for the coat to air dry as well.

Step 7: Removing The Excess Tape or Paper 

Remove the tape and paper from the area. If necessary, replace or reinstall the speakers.

Frequently Asked Question(FAQ)

Is it possible to paint over speaker wire?

Once you’ve secured the cables in a straight and safe environment, use matching paint to paint along the speaker wires and zip ties to disguise them. This approach is semi-permanent since it allows you to remove the cables without causing significant harm to the wall.

Can you paint built-in speakers?

It’s possible to paint the grills and box of your speakers. Prepare all painted surfaces (cabinet and grille) by gently sanding them with 300-400 grit sandpaper to get the best results.

To remove any fingerprints or grease from these surfaces, use a wet cloth soaked in a mild detergent to wipe them clean. Allow the speaker to dry completely before painting it.

Can you spray paint a speaker box?

The speaker cabinet, bracket caps, and grill front should all be painted using plastic-specific spray paint designed for plastic surfaces. But make sure that the grill holes aren’t blocked. Allow for complete drying of all components before reassembling the speaker.

Can you paint in-ceiling speakers?

To ensure that the paint goes on evenly and doesn’t clump up and clog any of the holes in the grill, use a manufacturer-approved paint thinner. Before touching the speaker grill, wait for the paint to dry fully. Make sure the grill is dry before reinstalling it back on the ceiling.

Conclusion

Painting your speaker box is a huge responsibility as there’s wiring included. However, the painting process can be done smoothly if you know the process.

That’s why, hopefully, you’ve got to know how to paint a speaker box throughout the article. Just be a little careful whenever you do the painting and maintain the box regularly for longevity.