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How to Customize XBox 360 Controllers

As much as many prefer to be part of the crowd, it's often very satisfying to stand out. One way Xbox 360 owners try to stand out is with customizing their Xbox and controllers. While a number of special edition controllers, with rare colors and graphic designs, have been offered from Microsoft, other companies have sprung up to offer custom skins. Some people have chosen to do the job themselves, sometimes with fantastic results. Customizing your Xbox 360 controller will take fine manipulation, careful work, and patience.

Things You'll Need

Small flat head or Torx (T8 bit) screwdriver
Paint
Newspaper
Fan

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the screws from the back of the Xbox 360 controller. The screws are hexagonally topped, so if using a flat head screwdriver, keep the shaft straight and apply steady pressure, turning the screws counter-clockwise. Six screws are easily visible. A final screw is hidden under the bar code in the battery compartment.
- 2
  Pry apart the controller. Set all loose button pads and components aside in a safe place. Pull the outer case off of the inner circuit board. Set the circuit board to the side as well. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the D-pad, pulling back the two tabs to pop it out. You should now have the two halves of the controller case.
- 3
  Place the two controller case halves on the newspaper. With the outsides facing up, carefully paint, either spray style or with a brush, a primary layer. Apply the paint in a thin layer to avoid dripping and unevenness. Turn the fan to its lowest setting and point in the direction of the cases to accelerate the drying process. Follow the paint's directions for dry times.
- 4
  Paint or place additional graphics on the now dried cases. Different paints have different levels of shine and finishes. Matte colors will give it a non-reflective surface. Adhesive graphics should be repainted over with a clear sealant layer. Allow any paint or sealant layer to dry.
- 5
  Replace all the buttons into their proper slots. Be certain that all screw shafts and buttons are properly aligned. If everything is in its proper place, the case should close up tightly. Once it is closed tightly, replace the screws and secure them tightly. Turn on your Xbox 360 and connect the controller and test to be sure all the buttons function correctly.

Video Game Accessories