How to Prepare Plastic for Painting

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Painting plastic is a great way to spruce up an old outdoor chair, car parts, dishware, birdfeeders, or a decorative art piece. Plastic isn’t as receptive to paint as other surfaces like brick, stone, or wood so washing, sanding, and priming the plastic is key to a professional-looking paint job. [1] Before you get started, make sure to use a primer and paint that work well for the type of plastic you’re painting.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Washing the Plastic

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  1. Fill your sink or a bowl with water and dish soap and stir it around until suds form. Soak a non-scratch sponge in the water and rub down the surface of the plastic. [2]
    • Cellulose sponges are best, but you can also use a microfiber cloth, sea sponge, or sponge made of a blend of cellulose, nylon, or polypropylene fiber.
    • If you're painting a piece that has set-in stains that you're worried may not be covered by the paint, pour rubbing alcohol onto the stain and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes before scrubbing it away.
  2. Once all the residue has been washed away, rinse the plastic piece with regular water until there are no suds left. Wipe it with a rag and let it dry for 1 hour or until it’s completely dry. [3]
    • To speed up the process, lay the piece in a well-ventilated area with a fan.
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  3. The idea is to roughen up the surface a little so the paint has some texture and more surface area to cling to. [4] Fine-grit sandpaper will scratch up the surface without weakening or damaging the plastic. Use a light to medium pressure to sand down the entire surface you plan to paint. [5]
    • If the plastic has shiny parts, make sure to sand down those parts a little extra because the paint will have a harder time sticking to a slick, glossy surface.
    • If the plastic piece has a curved surface or small crevices, it may be easier to use sandpaper instead of a sanding block.
    • You can buy a 360, 400, or 600-grit sanding block or sandpaper at any home repair or crafting store.
  4. Any loose bits of sanding or dust will mess up your paint job, so hold the piece under the sink or hose to get rid of it. Use a towel to wipe up excess moisture and then let it sit for an hour or until the piece is completely dry. [6]
    • Place the plastic piece near a fan or in a well-ventilated area to speed up the drying process.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Applying Primer

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  1. If you have a tarp, spread it over the floor or a countertop so you have a place to prime and paint without damaging the underlying surface. If you're painting something smaller, lay down some newspaper sheets so you won’t accidentally get primer on the floor, carpet, or countertop. [7]
    • Make sure your work area is well-ventilated because inhaling fumes from primer can cause unpleasant side effects like headaches, dizziness, or nausea.
  2. Most plastic primers contain alcohol and glue, ensuring the paint will go on evenly and stick without chipping or smudging. You can buy primer made for plastic from any home improvement store or from most craft stores. [8]
    • Shellac-based primers are quick-drying but aren't ideal for plastic that is exposed to high heat (like outdoor chairs or car parts).
    • You can use oil-based or latex primers on plastic. Just note that these work best if you plan to paint the piece with either oil-based or acrylic paint.
    • If the plastic piece is flexible or bends in any way, avoid using an oil-based primer and oil-based paints because they don't allow for movement.
  3. [9] Shake the can of primer and hold it 6 inches (15 cm) to 8 inches (20 cm) away from the surface. Spray a thin, even layer, working in sections from left to right. Move your hands in even lines to make sure you're not accidentally going over the same area twice. [10]
    • Avoid applying a thick layer onto the plastic because it may glob up and cause the surface to have irregular bumps.
    • If you're concerned about the final painted product being chipped or scratched, apply 2 very thin layers of primer. Just be sure to let the first layer dry completely before you add the second layer.
  4. Letting primer dry is key before putting on the first layer of paint. Otherwise, the paint may blend with the primer, causing discoloration and unevenness that may lead to chipping. The primer will be dry to the touch after 30 minutes, but wait for at least another half-hour before applying your first layer of paint. [11]
    • If you live in an area that's very humid, it may take up to 3 hours for the primer to fully dry.
    • Read the instructions on the canister of the primer to see exactly how long the manufacturer suggests you wait before applying your first coat of paint.
  5. The trick to a professional-looking paint job is making sure nothing comes between the surface of the plastic and the paint. Any dust or bits of debris can cause lumps or chipping, so wipe down the plastic a final time before starting to paint. [12]
    • Make sure to place the piece in an area free from lots of airborne dust or pet hair so you don’t have to deal with debris midway through painting.
  6. Shake the can beforehand to prepare the paint. Hold the canister 6 inches (15 cm) to 8 inches (20 cm) away from the plastic and spray it on it thin, even layers. Let it dry completely for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before adding a second coat. [13]
    • If you can’t find a spray paint that specifies it’s made for plastic on the label, multipurpose spray paint will work just as well.
    • For a perfect paint job, use a paintbrush to touch up any areas that look uneven or places you may have missed.
    • You can use only paint and a brush to cover the entire surface, but it may take longer and may not go on as evenly.
    • Make sure you’re painting in a well-ventilated area.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How do you prevent overspray?
    Patrick Coye
    Painting Specialist
    Patrick Coye is the owner and operator of Patrick’s Painting & Home Improvement in Alexandria, Virginia. With over 15 years of experience in residential construction, Patrick specializes in painting, wallpaper removal/installation, drywall, staining decks and fences, and kitchen cabinetry painting. To date, Patrick and his team have painted over 2,000 houses and stained over 800 decks. Patrick's Company won a "Top Job" award from the American Painting contractor magazine in 2020.
    Patrick Coye
    Painting Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Try putting down a drop cloth underneath whatever surface you are spray painting. This will help you avoid accidentally spraying surrounding surfaces.
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  • Question
    What are some mistakes to avoid when spray painting plastic?
    Patrick Coye
    Painting Specialist
    Patrick Coye is the owner and operator of Patrick’s Painting & Home Improvement in Alexandria, Virginia. With over 15 years of experience in residential construction, Patrick specializes in painting, wallpaper removal/installation, drywall, staining decks and fences, and kitchen cabinetry painting. To date, Patrick and his team have painted over 2,000 houses and stained over 800 decks. Patrick's Company won a "Top Job" award from the American Painting contractor magazine in 2020.
    Patrick Coye
    Painting Specialist
    Expert Answer
    I would say don't spray in direct sunlight. Try to do it in a shaded area so the paint doesn't dry as quickly. When paint dries too quickly, you can end up with intercoat delamination, which describes when the paint starts to peel because the gases are produced too quickly and aren't able to properly dry. Also remember to be conscientious of overspray. Take the wind into consideration whenever you're spraying, as it will get onto other surfaces if it is a windy day.
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      Tips

      • If you don't plan to paint the entire surface or want to create a striped design, apply painter's tape to those parts before you spray on the primer and don't take it off until after you've painted the piece.
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      Warnings

      • Inhaling fumes from primer and paint can cause confusion, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms, move to a well-ventilated area right away. [14]
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      References

      1. ↑ Patrick Coye. Painting Specialist. Expert Interview. 22 July 2020.
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/1hUds71Bx48?t=90
      3. ↑ https://craftsbyamanda.com/tips-for-painting-on-plastic/
      4. ↑ Patrick Coye. Painting Specialist. Expert Interview. 22 July 2020.
      5. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-spray-paint-plastic-the-right-way-244430
      6. ↑ https://craftsbyamanda.com/tips-for-painting-on-plastic/
      7. ↑ https://www.houselogic.com/remodel/painting-lighting/using-a-drop-cloth/
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/1hUds71Bx48?t=394
      9. ↑ Patrick Coye. Painting Specialist. Expert Interview. 22 July 2020.
      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/1hUds71Bx48?t=427
      2. ↑ https://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/tips/a266/paint-furnishings-and-learn-from-my-mistakes/
      3. ↑ https://youtu.be/1hUds71Bx48?t=456
      4. ↑ https://www.heytherehome.com/diy-spray-painted-plastic-outdoor-chairs/
      5. ↑ https://www.poison.org/articles/2013-dec/paints-for-indoor-use

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