Bummer .... i am trying to brainstorm some ideas for you... not sure the best thing to use.. I know you can write on them with Sharpies but they can be tricky to use. I'm wondering if rub on transfers would work? OH. . . if you want to paint them and use a stencil or something just do a primer coat of Gripper . . you can paint anything with that stuff and then if you want to do a color(s) over it you can (it is white) You can get it in the paint department at Home Depot. . . .