How do YOU paint yer struts?

I've always had a b*tch of a time painting shocks and springs. The best sucess I've had was by cutting a very thin strip of tape and wrapping it around the strut. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. How do you guys get yours to look realistic?:confused:

asked and answered (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?s=&threadid=47280&highlight=paint+shocks)

GREAT THANKS!! I try 'em out!:)