There’s nothing more frustrating than spending hours working on your Pinewood Derby car, only to have the paint chip or look dull. You want your car to shine on race day, but finding the right paint and supplies can feel overwhelming.
The good news? Choosing the best paint and accessories can make the whole process easier and more fun. With the right colors, brushes, and even special powders to speed up your car, you can enjoy every step—from painting to racing.
In this article, I’ll help you find the perfect paint sets and tools that bring your Pinewood Derby car to life. Keep reading to discover products that save time, boost creativity, and give you the winning edge on race day!
Table of Contents
Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint

The Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint, 36 Colors Acrylic Paint Set is ideal for both beginners and experienced artists looking for a versatile and vibrant painting kit. Whether you are an art student, hobbyist, or a parent seeking a safe and non-toxic set for your kids, this set caters to a wide range of users who want quality acrylic paints accompanied by useful accessories like brushes and a palette. It’s perfect for creative projects on various surfaces such as canvas, rocks, ceramic, and wood.
Pros:
- Includes 36 rich pigment colors providing a wide spectrum for diverse artwork.
- Comes with brushes and a palette for convenience and ease of use.
- Non-toxic formula, safe for kids and adults alike.
- Paint bottles are 2oz/60ml, ideal for multiple uses without wastage.
- Suitable for multiple surfaces including canvas, rocks, ceramic, and wood.
Cons:
- Paint bottles may be slightly bulky for travel or compact storage.
- Colors might require layering for deeper opacity on certain surfaces.
The Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set offers a comprehensive range of 36 vibrant colors that deliver excellent coverage and blend smoothly, allowing artists to create vivid and detailed artworks. The inclusion of brushes and a palette enhances the painting experience by providing the essential tools needed to mix and apply paint effectively. These features make it a convenient all-in-one kit for users who want to start painting immediately without purchasing additional accessories.
Additionally, the non-toxic and safe formulation makes it a great choice for families and educational settings, giving peace of mind when children are involved in artistic activities. The paints’ versatility on different surfaces such as canvas, rocks, ceramic, and wood expands creative possibilities, enabling users to explore various mediums and textures. Overall, this set balances quality, safety, and convenience, making it a valuable addition to any artist’s collection.
To buy this product, click here.
Testors Acrylic Paint Set Wooden Derby Car

The Testors 308937 6 Color Acrylic Paint Set Wooden Derby Car with Paint Tray is ideal for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their wooden derby cars. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced painter looking to add vibrant colors to your project, this set offers the perfect solution. It is especially suitable for those who appreciate quality and convenience in one package.
Pros:
- Includes six vibrant acrylic paint colors for versatile customization
- Comes with a handy paint tray for easy mixing and application
- Compact and lightweight design (6.1 x 5.0 x 5.8 inches, 0.6 pounds) for easy handling
- Produced by trusted brand Testors under Rust-Oleum Corp
- Perfectly sized for wooden derby cars with natural and camouflage color options
Cons:
- Limited to six colors which might not satisfy users wanting a broader palette
- Paints may require multiple coats for full opacity on some wooden surfaces
The Testors 308937 Acrylic Paint Set is thoughtfully designed to enhance the creative process when painting wooden derby cars. The inclusion of six different colors allows users to experiment with various designs and patterns, while the paint tray adds convenience, making it easier to blend colors or control the amount applied. The paints dry quickly, reducing wait time and allowing for faster project completion.
Additionally, the compact dimensions and lightweight nature of this set make it highly portable and easy to store. The quality of the acrylic paints ensures durability and vibrant finishes that stand out on wooden surfaces. This paint set is an excellent choice for anyone looking to bring their wooden derby car designs to life with minimal fuss and maximum creativity.
To buy this product, click here.
Derbycraftpro Graphite Powder For Pinewood Cars

The DerbyCraftPro Graphite Powder for Pinewood Cars is ideal for hobbyists and racers looking to enhance the performance of their pinewood derby cars. If you want to reduce friction on your derby wheels and axles to achieve smoother, faster runs, this high-quality dry graphite lubricant is designed specifically for you. Whether you are competing in official races or simply enjoy optimizing your pinewood car’s speed, this product is a must-have addition to your toolkit.
Pros:
- Contains high-purity 3000-mesh graphite for superior lubrication and friction reduction
- Comes with a precision needle tip applicator for easy and accurate application
- Dry graphite lubricant ensures no mess or residue buildup on wheels and axles
- Compact 0.5oz size makes it portable and easy to store
- Compatible with the Pinewood Weights Kit for a complete car optimization solution
Cons:
- Small bottle size may require frequent refills for frequent users
- Only suitable for use with pinewood derby cars, limiting broader application
The DerbyCraftPro Graphite Powder boasts a high-purity, finely ground 3000-mesh formula that effectively cuts down on friction between your pinewood car’s wheels and axles. This allows your car to move more freely and quickly along the track. The dry nature of the graphite powder means it won’t attract dust or dirt, which can often happen with liquid lubricants, ensuring consistent performance race after race. The included precision needle tip applicator lets you apply just the right amount exactly where it’s needed, avoiding waste and mess.
Additionally, the compact size and thoughtful packaging make it a convenient product to keep on hand during race days or practice sessions. Using this lubricant in combination with other racing accessories like the Pinewood Weights Kit can further enhance your car’s speed and stability. Overall, the DerbyCraftPro Graphite Powder is a reliable and efficient choice for any pinewood derby enthusiast aiming to gain a competitive edge through friction reduction and smooth wheel movement.
To buy this product, click here.
Stick On Flex Tungsten Weights For Derby Car

The Stick On Flex Tungsten Weights for Derby Car are perfect for hobbyists and racers looking to optimize their Pinewood Derby cars for maximum speed. Ideal for those who want precise weight adjustments, these 3OZ cuttable tungsten weights allow users to customize their cars’ balance and momentum effectively. If you’re aiming to gain a competitive edge in derby racing by fine-tuning your car’s weight distribution, this product is designed for you.
Pros:
- Made from high-density tungsten material for maximum weight in a compact size
- Easily cuttable and flexible to fit different car designs
- Includes incremental cylinders for precise weight tuning
- Comes in a convenient 2-piece set for balanced weight placement
- Enhances car speed by allowing better weight distribution
Cons:
- May require careful handling due to the dense tungsten material
- Adhesive strength might weaken over time with repeated adjustments
These Stick On Flex Tungsten Weights are designed to fit securely on your derby car, providing a reliable way to add significant mass without bulk. The flexibility and cuttable nature of the weights mean you can shape them to fit tight spaces, maximizing the potential to fine-tune your car’s balance. The use of tungsten ensures that even small pieces add considerable weight, which is crucial for achieving higher speeds without sacrificing form or aerodynamics.
The incremental cylinders included in the set allow for precise adjustments, making it easier to meet specific weight requirements or optimize performance based on track conditions. By strategically placing these weights, users can improve the car’s momentum and stability, directly translating into faster run times. Overall, this product offers a practical and effective solution for derby racers who want to push their cars to the next level.
To buy this product, click here.
Palmer 2oz 16 Color Acrylic Paint Set

The Palmer 2oz 16 Color Acrylic Paint Set is ideal for artists, students, and hobbyists who seek a versatile and vibrant paint collection. Whether you are a beginner exploring acrylic painting or an experienced creator looking for a reliable color selection, this set offers a convenient and high-quality solution. It is perfect for those who want a wide variety of colors in one compact package.
Pros:
- Includes 16 rich and vivid colors providing excellent variety.
- Each tube contains 2oz of paint, offering ample quantity for multiple projects.
- Compact dimensions (6.25″ x 6.25″ x 4.25″) make it easy to store and transport.
- Produced by the reputable brand Cra-Z-Art, ensuring trusted quality.
- Multicolor set suitable for various painting techniques and surfaces.
Cons:
- Paint tubes may dry out if not sealed properly after use.
- Colors might require mixing for custom shades, which can be time-consuming for beginners.
The Palmer 2oz 16 Color Acrylic Paint Set features a comprehensive assortment of bright, durable colors that adhere well to multiple surfaces such as canvas, wood, and paper. This versatility allows artists to experiment with different mediums and styles, enhancing creativity and artistic expression. Each paint tube’s 2oz capacity ensures users have enough product for various projects without frequent repurchasing.
Thanks to the compact and organized packaging, this set is highly portable and easy to store, making it suitable for both home studios and on-the-go artists. The high-quality pigments deliver smooth coverage and excellent color payoff, which benefits users by reducing the need for multiple coats and saving both time and materials during painting sessions.
To buy this product, click here.
Pinecar Derby Car Paint

The PineCar Derby Car Paint, Red is ideal for hobbyists and PineCar derby enthusiasts who want to customize their derby cars with a vibrant and durable finish. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced racer, this paint is perfect for those looking to add a professional touch to their PineCar derby projects.
Pros:
- Bright and vibrant red color that enhances the car’s appearance
- Easy application suitable for beginners and experts alike
- Lightweight paint that does not affect car performance
- Durable finish that withstands handling and racing conditions
- Compact dimensions making it easy to store and use
Cons:
- Limited to the red color option only
- May require multiple coats for full coverage
The PineCar Derby Car Paint, Red comes in a compact size with dimensions of 2.0 inches in height, 4.5 inches in width, and 9.6 inches in length, weighing just 0.3 pounds. This makes it easy to handle and apply without adding unnecessary weight to the derby car, which is crucial for maintaining optimal speed during races. The bright red color is specifically designed to stand out, giving your derby car a competitive edge in both style and visibility.
Manufactured by the trusted brand PineCar, this paint provides a smooth and even finish that adheres well to the car’s surface. Its durability ensures that the paint withstands impacts and friction during races, maintaining the car’s sleek look over time. Ideal for both casual and competitive PineCar derby participants, this paint helps users achieve a professional, eye-catching result with minimal effort.
To buy this product, click here.
Color Change Holographic Paint Aerosol

The Color Change Holographic Paint Aerosol 3.5oz is perfect for artists, crafters, and DIY enthusiasts looking to add a unique, eye-catching effect to their projects. Ideal for those who want to transform ordinary surfaces into dazzling works of art with a vibrant, shifting holographic finish. Whether you’re working on custom automotive details, model kits, or decorative items, this paint is designed for users who value creativity and high-impact visuals.
Pros:
- Produces a stunning color-changing holographic effect that shifts with the light angle
- Compact 3.5oz aerosol can for easy handling and precise application
- Lightweight and portable, perfect for on-the-go projects
- Compatible with a variety of surfaces, including metal, plastic, and wood
- Created by Spaz Stix, a trusted brand in specialty paints
Cons:
- Limited quantity in a small can may require multiple purchases for large projects
- Requires proper ventilation due to aerosol spray fumes
- May need a clear coat finish to protect the holographic effect from wear
The Color Change Holographic Paint Aerosol delivers a dynamic and visually engaging finish that changes color depending on the viewing angle and lighting. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who want to create standout effects that catch attention and add depth to their work. The aerosol format ensures smooth and even coverage, making it easier to apply the paint on intricate surfaces and corners without brush marks.
With dimensions of 6.0 inches in height and 2.5 inches in width and length, the can is conveniently sized for easy storage and handling. Its lightweight design, weighing only 0.35 pounds, makes it ideal for extended use without fatigue. Manufactured by HRP Distributing, Inc., this paint guarantees consistent quality and reliability for both professionals and hobbyists. Overall, this product enhances creative projects by providing a vibrant, color-shifting holographic effect that elevates the visual appeal of any surface.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Paint Type For Pinewood Derby Cars?
Acrylic paint is the best choice for Pinewood Derby cars. It dries quickly and adheres well to wood. Sets like Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint offer rich pigments and non-toxic formulas suitable for detailed designs.
How Do I Use Graphite Powder On Pinewood Derby Wheels?
Apply dry graphite powder to wheels and axles to reduce friction. Use a precision applicator like DerbyCraftPro’s for even coverage. This increases wheel speed and improves car performance on the track.
Are Tungsten Weights Safe And Effective For Pinewood Derby Cars?
Yes, tungsten weights are safe and highly effective. They are dense, allowing precise weight placement to optimize speed. Products like Stick On Flex Tungsten Weights are cuttable and easy to attach for better car balance.
Can I Use A Paint Set With Brushes For Detailed Car Designs?
Absolutely! Paint sets like Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint include brushes and palettes perfect for detailed painting. They allow creative freedom and fine control, helping your Pinewood Derby car stand out visually.
How Does Color Change Holographic Paint Affect My Pinewood Derby Car?
Color change holographic paint adds a unique, eye-catching effect to your car. It shifts colors with light angles, enhancing visual appeal without affecting performance. PineCar’s holographic aerosol paint is a popular choice for this effect.
Conclusion
Choosing the best paint for your Pinewood Derby car can make a big difference. Bright, smooth colors help your car stand out on race day. Acrylic paints, like Shuttle Art and Palmer sets, offer rich colors that dry fast and last long.
Using the right paint ensures your design looks sharp and vibrant. Don’t forget to prepare the wood surface before painting for better results. Adding graphite powder helps wheels spin smoothly, making your car faster. Tungsten weights can improve speed by balancing the car’s weight.
Combining good paint with quality accessories creates a winning car. Simple steps and the right materials lead to a car that is both beautiful and competitive. Enjoy the painting process and have fun building your Pinewood Derby car. After all, the race is about creativity and excitement as much as speed.
Keep it colorful, smooth, and ready to race!
