Cheaper Paint Alternative?

[shmavistime]

Hey everyone, I picked up a 12ft v-haul with a trailer for $75 bucks from my buddy not too long ago with the idea to fix it up and build a casting deck on it (pike fly-fishing). The boat was in ROUGH shape, but I put a ton of work into it refinihing the entire boat. Anyway, I stripped the boat, primered it, repaired the transom etc, and its looking great, but seeing as I am a college student with limited funds, I was wondering what you would all recommend as a cheaper paint alternative to use. I want to go dark green on the hull, and an off-white for the interior of the boat. Problem is, I don't really see the need to spend $50 on a quart of Rustoleum marine paint. Any ideas on a cheaper alternative? As long as it does chip off, Im really not too picky. I heard about using oil-based paints and a hardener? WIll this be my best/cheapest option? Thanks

 

[Tahorover]

Re: Cheaper Paint Alternative?

My Home depot sell this RO paint for 12.00 a Qt, where are you shopping?

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Cheaper Paint Alternative?

Hopefully, you used a Self Etching primer on that aluminum boat. If not you're probably gunna have problems with the paint adhering well. Anyhoo...
I use this...

$12.99 @ Lowe's. I use Valspar Acrylic Enamel Hardener $15.99. and Acetone. Here's my recipe. Your TOTAL cost should be under $50.00 for ALL of it.

1 qt. Paint, 1/2 cup Acetone, 2oz Hardener.