No. Choose a sealer in a finish that appeals to you: matte, satin, or glossy. Thank you for this article. If you are painting a multi-sided object, such as a box, work one side at a time. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. Last Updated: September 25, 2020 ", with a paint intended for plastic first. ", http://www.valsparpaint.com/en/how-to/interior/special-challenges/plastic-and-laminate.html, https://craftsbyamanda.com/tips-for-painting-on-plastic/, http://www.krylon.com/how-to/how-to-videos/how-to-spray-paint-plastic-video/, https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-paint-plastic/#.WUIhWvrytPM, http://www.heytherehome.com/diy-spray-painted-plastic-outdoor-chairs/, https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-paint-plastic/, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow, Sanding is important. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. This will allow the paint to stick to the plastic better. With over 30 years of construction experience, Mark specializes in constructing interiors, project management, and project estimation. Read this article, now I do. ", run, and is easier for 'orange peal' to develop. Some types of paint will be more durable than others. For most types of paint, this should only take 15 to 20 minutes. This article has been viewed 1,301,264 times. In general, a polyurethane or polyacrylic topcoat will protect the paint. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. A mismatch can result in spotting or uneven texture due to different formulations of product. Yes, they can. How long will the paint stay on the plastic? ", "I knew nothing about painting plastic. Tap both sides of the brush lightly against the side of the can or pail. ", "This helped me renovate an old beat up pinball machine! It is the sealer that you should focus on: choose something that is waterproofed or formulated to stand up to the elements. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,301,264 times. The primer dries in approximately 120 minutes. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Some types of plastic will repel paint, regardless of your preparation. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling toxic fumes from the paint, sealer, or mineral spirits. If you are simply painting details onto plastic, such as flowers, choose a paint finish the matches the plastic: shiny or matte. You need a product specifically designed for plastic, which is often in the form of spray paint. It depends on how well you prepped the plastic, whether or not you sealed it, and how rough you are on the plastic. A primer designed for use on plastic is also helpful to get a smooth foundation for the paint. He has been a construction professional since 1987. Choose a low odour, all-purpose exterior primer and sealer that is suitable for use on plastics. Some model/enamel paints need to be thinned as well. What paint can I use on a composite door? wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Items that will see constant use may stat to chip over time. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. By using our site, you agree to our. With your wikiHow guide, I can link/refer to this excellent guide. Brush or spray on the latex primer on the plastic item and allow for it to dry overnight. Thank you! After sanding, wipe down the surface of the piece with a tack cloth to remove dust. The article didn't specify the type of, "I bought a mirror at a second-hand store. Skip to priming if the furniture is already smooth. Once the primer has dried, evenly cover the furniture with a satin finish spray paint in the color of your choice and let it dry for 24 hours. This article has been viewed 1,301,264 times. The best paint is spray paint, but make sure you do this outdoors to avoid strong smells. Once your furniture is clean and rinsed, sand the surface with a piece of fine-grit sandpaper so the paint will stick better. ", "Really concise, clear instructions. This stops the brush from being overloaded with paint and prevents dripping. It has added rust protection, dries to the touch in … For the best results, use all of the same brand on your project. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. An all-purpose cleaner, such as dish soap, will work if the furniture is not too dirty. Test your sanding material in an inconspicuous spot on the furniture. I would use an oil-based primer with a water-based latex paint. ", "It had the exact info I was looking for and then some other helpful info as well. If you prepped the surface, primed it, and used a sealer, the paint may last a long time. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. Apply enamel/model paints using a stiff-bristle brush. What paint can I use on plastic that will stand up to the elements? ", "This is helpful. Ask someone at the paint counter of your local hardware store for a sample portion of whichever color you favor, as this will be especially cheap and will likely be enough to cover a plastic chair, for instance. What can be used to coat spray painted plastic furniture? To learn more from our General Contractor co-author, like how to seal your paint to protect it, keep reading the article! If you are using spray paint, I would recommend three light coats, waiting 20 or 30 minutes between each. Paint over the surface with the same color of the wall, or use artist's brushes to create a texture or design. This primer can be used both indoors and outdoors and provides coverage for up to 100 sq. A spray paint primer and color in one, Krylon COLORmaxx can be used on a wide variety of projects, indoors and outdoors. For more tips, like how to paint plastic furniture that will be used indoors, scroll down. Peel it away carefully so that you don't accidentally chip the paint. ", lighter color. Shake spray paint cans for a few minutes. New plastic furniture will likely benefit from a light sanding. Apply acrylic paints using a taklon, kanekalon, or sable brush. Handle the plastic carefully. "", "I was clueless as to how I should paint plastic, and this tutorial really helped. ", "Every project I have been wanting to do is listed. For best results, look for paints that are specifically labeled for use on plastic. Get scrapbook paper, die cut machines, dies, stickers stamps and more. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. ", "The suggestion to use plastic spray paint as a primer helped. That means it sticks like crazy, but its "give" makes it vulnerable to rough treatment. Will definitely be giving it a try. Mark Spelman is a General Contractor based in Austin, Texas. If you're using spray paint, it is especially important to wear a dust mask. Thank you. With over 30 years of construction experience, Mark specializes in constructing interiors, project management, and project estimation. Priming plastic surfaces improves adhesion and helps to create an even overall finish. Shop the largest selection of scrapbooking supplies in the world. With the right amount of preparation, however, you can paint plastic with success. The paint system: 1. Our complete line of Automotive Touchup products make is easy and affordable to restore your car, truck or SUV to like-new condition thanks to ATU's precision touch up paint technology and dedicated staff. Not all paint types work for plastic surfaces. Before you begin painting, make sure you are in a place that is well-ventilated, like a garage, and that any surfaces are covered with newspaper or a tarp. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Let final coats dry for 24 hours. How long it takes for the paint to dry depends on the type of paint you are using. Undercoating is a tar-like material that is made to remain somewhat flexible when dry. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. But be sure to use a good bonding primer and spray paint. Ensure the furniture is completely dry before proceeding. I searched and found a brush that had previously been used for oil-based primer…still in the plastic bag, still filled with oil-based primer, and dried up hard as a rock. For example, if you only want to paint the surface of a table, tape off the top portion of each leg. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Doing so would take off pre-applied coats and could make your desired object have an uneven surface with lines. Evenly spray the entire surface in sweeping, back-and-forth motions. Paint plastic outlet and switch covers to match the walls by removing them. Apply the primer in a steady back-and-forth motion while holding the can's nozzle 12-18in (30-45cm) from the surface. Paint primer is necessary when painting stained, smelly, or hard to adhere surfaces like smoke damage and odors, cedar wood bleed, metal, plastic, or laminate furniture. The handle of a brush is most often made from wood that's painted or varnished, but it can also be made from plastic or bamboo.The length is variable, from really short (such as those in travel paint boxes) to really long (ideal for big canvases). Wipe down the plastic surface with alcohol to remove any oils that might prevent the paint from sticking, then apply a coat of primer. Outdoor furniture such as plastic lawn chairs are especially easy to prepare and paint. Use a base coat of automotive "undercoating" spray paint (commonly available at most stores selling spray paint) on plastic outdoor articles, followed by several days of drying to let it toughen up, before painting with a color top coat. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Since you're using spray paint, you don't need a roller or brush … Take this into account if the article will receive rough treatment - you will have to touch it up now and then. Apply the paint in a sweeping motion. Hold spray cans 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 centimeters) away from the surface. If you use the plastic item frequently and roughly (ie: hitting stuff with it), then the paint may chip or flake off over time. A satin finish is recommended for plastic surfaces. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 90,005 times. I want to paint it a, "I was going to use a plastic tarp to make an event banner and bought acrylic paints. :)", "Great info, and it's written so one can understand. ". This article has been viewed 90,005 times. To clean brand new plastic, wipe down with a cloth soaked in paint thinner. Then fill in the remaining flat areas (B to E) using a mini roller. Preparing a Plastic Surface for Fresh Paint, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Paint-Plastic-Furniture-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Paint-Plastic-Furniture-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Paint-Plastic-Furniture-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid8052219-v4-728px-Paint-Plastic-Furniture-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"