I want to paint the CETME to give it that hip desert theme that is so popular these days.

I was thinking to hit it with some matte Krylon kahki, browns and some OD and then hitting it with some matte clearcoat.

How has this worked for you guys and what are some good techniques for patterns?

I will be using this rifle for hitting paper at the range, objects (washing machines, computer monitors and other assorted junk) in the rural areas, and for the mere joy of having a painted rifle.  

Muchas gracias, and please post some pics...

Get a Bowflage kit with the colors you want, cover up the glass on any optics, and start painting.  

Start with light and go to dark, and through trial and error you should get something you like.  

If you want a real pretty permenant and durable camo scheme, send it out for duracoating.  

Lauer makes a paint kit with real high quality epoxy paint in any style/colors you want. I think you gotta bake it in the oven when you are done.

the bowflage idea is a good one.  

We used standard Krylon in Afghanistan...  Just spray paint it.  If you don't like it, hit it again.  It's that easy.

Roller and latex house paint

I've been researching some coatings for some of my firearms and I think I am going to go with the Norells Moly Resin.  I'll post some before and after pics if i can.

I used Krylon camo on a surplus M14 stock with good results. I painted the stock only, not the rifle. I have also heard good things about the paint available from Brownell's.

Thanks for the info guys. I have a Bass Pro shops close by and will see if they have some Bowflage.  Will post pics when I am done.