The Pro Dipper tubes are quite nice and worth the money if you are dipping fairly often. If you are just doing the occasional crown dip, get a golf club tube and a couple of rubber stoppers. You can cut three crown dip tubes from one tube. Pour the paint back in the can when done and toss the tube. It is cheaper than cleaning it.
Paint wise, you can do pretty good with Krylon. Automotive paints are very nice, but are pricey and smell a bit. Bohning products are very good, but hook up a vent fan first.