A kendama is more than just a wooden toy—it’s an extension of your style and personality. Whether you’re an experienced player looking to refresh an old kendama or a beginner wanting something unique, custom painting your kendama can make it truly yours.

When I first started playing kendama, I remember feeling attached to my first one. It had dings and scratches from all the missed spikes, but I didn’t want to replace it. Instead, I decided to give it a fresh coat of paint. The process was surprisingly fun, and I learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t. If you’re thinking about painting your own kendama, there are a few important steps to ensure it looks great and performs well.

Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these supplies:

• A kendama (preferably a raw, unfinished one or an old one with the paint sanded off)
• Fine-grit sandpaper (220–400 grit)
• Acrylic or spray paint
• Paintbrushes or sponges
• Painter’s tape (for clean lines)
• Clear coat or lacquer (glossy or matte, depending on preference)
• A drying rack or a place to hang the tama
• Gloves and a mask (to protect yourself from fumes)

Step 1: Preparing Your Kendama

You don’t want to paint over an uneven surface. If your kendama is brand new and unpainted, you can start right away. However, if you’re repainting an old one, you’ll need to sand it down first.

• Use 220-grit sandpaper to remove the old paint or finish.
• Switch to 400-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface.
• Wipe away the dust with a damp cloth and let it dry completely.

I made the mistake of skipping proper sanding on my first custom kendama. The new paint ended up peeling after a few days of play. If you want long-lasting results, don’t rush this step.

Step 2: Planning Your Design

This is where creativity comes in. Think about how you want your kendama to look. You could go for a simple solid color, a bold geometric pattern, or even something completely abstract.

• If you want clean lines or specific sections painted, use painter’s tape to mask off areas.
• If you want a gradient effect, use a sponge to blend colors smoothly.
• Consider adding a tracking dot on the tama (ball) to help with tricks.

If you’re unsure about your design, try sketching it on paper first. This way, you won’t have to improvise mid-way through and risk messing up your work.

Step 3: Applying the Paint

Now it’s time to bring your design to life.

For the tama (ball):

• Hang it up or place it on a drying rack to ensure even coverage.
• If using spray paint, apply thin layers from about 6-12 inches away to prevent drips.
• If using acrylic paint, apply it with smooth strokes and let each layer dry before adding more.
• Wait about 15-30 minutes between coats.

For the ken (handle):

• Hold the ken by the spike or rest it on a stand while painting.
• Use even strokes to avoid uneven textures.
• Let each coat dry before adding another.

Patience is key. I once got impatient and added too much paint at once. The result? A sticky, uneven mess that took forever to dry properly. Thin, even coats work best.

Step 4: Sealing the Paint

Once you’re happy with your design, it’s time to protect it. A clear coat or lacquer will keep the paint from chipping and give your kendama a professional finish.

• Choose a glossy finish if you want extra shine and durability.
• Choose a matte finish for a more natural, smooth feel.
• If you want extra grip, use a rubberized clear coat on the tama.

Spray the clear coat in light layers, allowing each to dry before adding the next. A good sealant will ensure that your custom-painted kendama stays fresh, even after hours of play.

Step 5: Drying and Curing

Even though the paint might feel dry to the touch after a few hours, it needs time to fully cure.

• Let the kendama sit in a well-ventilated area for at least 24-48 hours.
• Avoid handling it too much during this time.
• If you can, let it cure for a full week before serious play.

When I first painted a kendama, I played with it too soon, and the paint started to peel. Waiting a little longer makes a big difference in durability.

Step 6: Stringing It Back Together

Once everything is dry and cured, it’s time to restring your kendama.

• Use a fresh string if the old one is worn out.
• Make sure the string length matches your playing style.
• Tie it securely to prevent it from coming loose during play.

At this point, your kendama should look amazing and be ready for action.

Custom painting a kendama is a fun and rewarding experience. It gives you the chance to express yourself while also learning about the craftsmanship behind these skill toys.

If this is your first time painting one, don’t worry if it’s not perfect. Every custom job is unique, and imperfections add character. Over time, you’ll develop techniques that work best for you.

Most importantly, enjoy the process. There’s something special about playing with a kendama that you’ve designed yourself. It becomes more than just a toy—it becomes a piece of you.