Paint ?

[Maize-N-Blue-D]

OK I just picked up a couple of filters and a heater (Thanks RICHE).

Now I need to prep my next tank - 55 gallon.

I want to paint the back the back of it!  Preferably deep blue...

Anyone have suggestions on what is the best type of paint (Brand), color and / or how to best apply the paint ?

[Ron]

IME, make sure the tank is clean, clean, clean before painting or you may have problems with the paint sticking.

You multiple coats so the end result is opaque.

A brush or roller - doesn't matter. You could even use spray paint if you want to mask everything first to protect from over-spray.

It doesn't really matter what kind of paint - it all seems to look the same through the glass afterwards. IIRC I used an acrylic.

[gannmann101]

I've had the best results using. A acrilic paint and a foam roller. I normaly use deca color from any craft store or any other brand. The arcilic paint.  It comes off very easy if you ever want to change the color or go back to a clear back.

[RichE]

This is what I use on my tanks, either Dark Blue or Flat Black   
OVERVIEW:
Rust-Oleum’s Painter’s Touch Ultra Cover 2x delivers twice the coverage as other competitive brands! The advanced Double Cover Technology provides the best formula for ultimate hiding power, which allows projects to be completed faster and easier. Apply to wood, wicker, metal, plaster or unglazed ceramic. Fast-dry formula resists chipping and fading.

[Stan M.]

i used the same paint as rich did.works great only took two coats.

[Maize-N-Blue-D]

Spray ?  Also what type satin, gloss, flat

So Is the best way to clean glass either rubbing alcohol and / vinegar and water?

[Stan M.]

I used flat with a foam roller.

[bob terp]

I would stick to the Rust Oleum brand as I have recently tried others and have had problems with the 2nd coat. I have always taken a new razor blade to every inch of the glass to help remove any silicone residue. I use lacquer thinner to wash off after using the razor but thats what I have on hand.Then use a 3-4 inch foam roller which are cheap and disposable. Don't use any water base products like I did and have the second coat wrinkle. The only thing I tape off is the frame. Be ready for the fumes though. This has worked for me on bunches of tanks. I don't know about using alcohol, I did collision work for many years and I know that thinners will help remove the silicone as good as anything but the razor for me is a must. Hope this helps.

[bob terp]

I have to elaborate on the water base that I used and both wrinkled as I just went out and read the label and it said it was a acylic. These were both Valspar products and I had to remove the paint. One can I had and the other I got for free,so much for saving a buck.

[Maize-N-Blue-D]

That's good advice !  Thanks

[theoryguru]

I like to use Krylon Fusion spray paint and really like their "Camo" line of Ultra Flat paint colours. 

[Ron]

I like to use Krylon Fusion spray paint and really like their "Camo" line of Ultra Flat paint colours.

Through the glass does it actually look any different?

IME, gloss - semigloss - flat ... they all look the same when painted on the back of a tank and viewed through the front once filled with water.

[theoryguru]

I like to use Krylon Fusion spray paint and really like their "Camo" line of Ultra Flat paint colours.

Through the glass does it actually look any different?

IME, gloss - semigloss - flat ... they all look the same when painted on the back of a tank and viewed through the front once filled with water.

No.  I got worried after a few passes, but I apply 2 coats and looks good and the finish is durable. 
I prefer 'flat' paint so not to reflect more light.

[NorthernAquatic]

I am just being curious, but why paint a tank at all? why not just use a covering and tape it on.

[Ron]

I am just being curious, but why paint a tank at all? why not just use a covering and tape it on.

It's potentially cheaper. It's also impossible for water to get between the paint and the back pane, unlike when you use a taped-on background.