Quote by Mo the Surfer:
I would never have thought about a vinyl dye. How did you come up with that solution?
How much time between coats and how long until you topcoat it with lacquer?
I know a guy who used to do full customization on cars and he swore by vinyl dye for interiors, especially faux leather. The pliability of leather meant that regular paint just isn't an option. It works on all plastics though. I don't really use it on consoles because they aren't handled much, but controllers are necessary!
I do very thin layers. You can barely see the tint after the first two coats. I don't wait more than about 3 minutes between coats. I end up with about 6-8 coats (depending on what color I'm going from/to) and then let it set for ~24 hours. Then I wet sand with 2000 grit or higher, wash it with dish soap and let it dry completely. Then I do 1 or 2 heavy coats and let it set for AT LEAST 24 hours.
At this point, if I'm not clear coating, It shouldn't be touched for 3 days to a week. I'll clear coat with acrylic lacquer after 1 day though. That should be completely set in another day.
I hate how long it takes to do them, but if you want it to look good, it is definitely worth being patient and doing it right!