Safe spray paint for blacking out side of enclosure?

[LacyB]

Just got my ball python an upgraded tank, but before I put her in it I want to black out the sides so she can feel more secure. I used paper and hot glue last time, but want something a little cleaner looking for this larger enclosure. And before anyone asks, this will be going outside the enclosure. Not inside.

So I'm just curious if anyone knows any good, safe brands of black spray paint to use? Any that might have been used before successfully? Even brands that would be good to avoid entirely. I'd also be interested if someone knows another technique that might work and still give a clean look that paper and hot glue just can't provide.

[Bogertophis]

Since you're using a glass tank, why not put up some nice scenery around the sides & back, then insulate with the material of your choice? (insulate using foam-
board, cork tiles/cork roll, etc etc.) Privacy can be more practical & attractive than just blacking it out. I'm so not a fan of spray paint, & IF you use it, be sure
to get no-VOC type paint...all odors must be gone around snakes, most paint & stains take time to cure & give off toxic fumes.

[distaff]

I did this to one tank - much nicer than paper! Check the label on the spray can. Go SLOW! Make several very light passes. Otherwise, you will get drips. I put masking tape over the plastic trim. Good results on glass - common among aquarium keepers.

My next custom foam enclosures will also be spray painted black.

[pretends2bnormal]

Honestly for blacking out things, I prefer just simple black acrylic paint on the outside. It dries quickly, goes on easy without mess, and the brush strokes only tend to be visible outside, the inside always comes out smooth. I've painted designs on the back of small aquariums before and on the outside it certainly won't hurt anything.

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[distaff]

Since you're using a glass tank, why not put up some nice scenery around the sides & back, then insulate with the material of your choice? (insulate using foam-
board, cork tiles/cork roll, etc etc.) Privacy can be more practical & attractive than just blacking it out. I'm so not a fan of spray paint, & IF you use it, be sure
to get no-VOC type paint...all odors must be gone around snakes, most paint & stains take time to cure & give off toxic fumes.

I've generally heard 72 hours for off gassing. A basic paint on the outside should be fine by then. Looking in from the outside, ...so many snakes look gorgeous against a dramatic black background. As for the outside - cork can look nice, I just drape hand stitched quilts, indigo shibori, and pretty weavings over mine.