The foolproof way to make chrome sockets more visible.
Time 1 hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$0 - $20
Introduction
Stop squinting at tiny engravings and learn how to make chrome sockets more visible with this clever marking technique.
This is one of my favorite projects because it is simple yet significantly impacts tool organization. By painting the size markings on your chrome-plated sockets, you can quickly identify their sizes instead of struggling to see which one you are holding. Once you begin this process and experience how satisfying it is to avoid digging around for tools, you will likely feel motivated to apply it to all your tools, such as speed squares, wrenches, chisels, etc.
Tools Required
- Chrome sockets
- Drill
- Drill socket adapter
- Gloves
Materials Required
- Carb cleaner
- Microfiber cloth
- Paint markers
- Shop rags or paper towels
Project step-by-step (6)
Step 1
Clean the sockets
Clean off the sockets with a microfiber cleaning cloth. If any sockets have rust, you can mix baking soda and water to create a paste to remove the rust with a soft-bristle brush.
Step 2
Apply paint marker to grooves
My socket wrench set has both standard SAE and metric sockets, so I decided to color-code them for better organization—using red for the standard SAE sockets and yellow for the metric. Be sure to buy paint markers or pens that are suitable for metal surfaces. I recommend the Markal brand, as they offer several color options, and their paint markers make it easy for the paint to seep into the engraved size markings.
Paint the indented engraved lines that indicate the socket’s size with the paint marker. Completely cover and fill in the grooves. You may need to make several passes to ensure they are full.
Step 3
Attach the socket to the drill
Once the paint has dried, attach the socket to the drill using a socket adapter. The paint from paint markers usually dries pretty quickly.
Step 4
Spray carb cleaner
Spray a small amount of carb cleaner onto a paper towel or shop rag. As carb cleaners are potentially hazardous, it is important that you work in a well-ventilated area.
Step 5
Remove the excess paint
Wrap the carb-cleaner-dampened part of the towel around the socket, and start the drill while gently clasping the towel around the socket. As it rotates the carb cleaner will clean off the paint on the flat surfaces of the socket, but it will leave paint embedded deep within the lines, enhancing their visibility. You may need to repeat this process a few times to eliminate all the paint completely.
Step 6
FAQ
What kind of paint marker should I buy for labeling sockets?
You will need a medium-tip paint marker that adheres to metal and allows the paint to seep into the socket label markings. Markal paint markers are a good choice.
How do I know what socket sizes are metric or standard?
Metric sockets are measured in millimeters and will be written as a whole number with the letters “mm” on the side of it (ex. 3mm). Standard sockets are measured in fractions of an inch or more and will be written on the sockets as a simple fraction, sometimes followed by “in.” (ex. 7/16 in.).
Other than paint, what can I use to mark sockets with?
Other than paint, you can engrave the sockets, label them with a label maker, or mark them with nail polish, permanent marker, or colored heat-shrinking tube to mark the sockets.
How to remove rust from chrome sockets?
Mixing baking soda with water to create a paste and scrubbing the socket can effectively remove rust. Soaking the rusty sockets in white vinegar before scrubbing can also help.
