While varnish on a Bamboo Rod protects the material from moisture and adds weight, paint on a glass or graphite rod only adds weight as the material itself is self protecting. Another bad about paint is its association with cheap rods where it is used to cover up defects. These may not be issues for a child's rod. However, before getting out the brushes or spray equipment, look around for a blank in the color you want. Plum and burgundy are not that uncommon. Here's a 7' 4 wt blank in Plum for less than $30. http://www.jannsnetcraft.com/ss2pcim6/296110.aspx The source has other sizes in plum also.