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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Get DIY project ideas and easy-to-follow crafts to help you spruce up your space. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Most general-purpose spray paints work on plastic, but care must be taken to prepare the surface prior to painting. In fact, sanding will help the paint adhere even better. But paint manufacturers have developed special spray paints that go on smoother, stick better, and resist peeling better than conventional paint. Select material based on the intended use of your flowers. Choose acrylic, enamel, or spray paint, then apply the paint to the plastic surface in light coats, allowing each coat to completely dry before adding another one. If part has been removed, secure the part in a location so you can paint without having to handle it, if not mask up areas that do not need painting. General-purpose spray paints offer far more color choices than do specialty plastic paints. Since most plastic is glossy, sanding is then an essential step. Wipe down the plastic surface with alcohol to remove any oils that might prevent the paint from sticking, then apply a coat of primer. For best results, look for paints that are specifically labeled for use on plastic. Prime the plastic with a plastic primer if you can't find the desired color in a dedicated plastic spray paint; otherwise, skip the primer and take the easy route with a plastic-specific paint. Paint the plastic with a second coat. Move back and forth across the surface of your trim so you apply a thin and even coat. Depending on how much you have to do, Goof-Off may be a better option. For old plastic, use an ammonia-based cleaner on surface; For new plastic, use paint thinner to clean surface; Lightly sand surface if previously painted; Remove dust with a tack cloth; Let plastic surface dry; Apply Krylon ® Fusion for Plastic ® spray … Best for Outdoor: Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Multi Purpose Spray Paint For the sake of convenience, you may wish to use a spray paint labeled as being specifically meant for plastics, like Krylon Fusion for Plastic or Rust-Oleum Specialty Paint for Plastic Spray. This article was co-authored by Mark Spelman. Be safe when disposing of soaked rags as they are flammable. Remedy: If you notice that the spray paint is starting to chip, you can apply a coat of Mod Podge to seal the paint. Instead, move forward. Check the paint instructions to see which or what should be used as a topcoat. Do not aim for total color coverage at this point, as that will usually lead to drips. Apply stencils to the piece, then paint over them with spray paint or acrylic paint and a foam brush. The most commonly recommended paint for plastic surfaces are latex-based paint, which may be brushed or spray painted on. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. If you are using a spray-able primer, be sure to cover your work surface and work in a well-ventilated area. A primer designed for use on plastic is also helpful to get a smooth foundation for the paint. Spray paint gives the smoothest finish, but regular spray paint won't adhere to plastic. Do this as many times as necessary until the rags come up clean and dust-free. ", "Very helpful. Every time I try to just tape off the area, I end up still getting paint where I didn’t want. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Items such as furniture, figurines, toys, containers, and décor items are great choices. Will sanding the project help acrylic paints adhere to it better? Step 1 Remove the plastic parts from the vehicle, if possible. If you purchase using a shopping link, we may earn a commission. Formulated the same as the spray-on versions, the only difference is the delivery system. During this time, they may be sticky and prone to peeling or chipping. Let final coats dry for 24 hours. Even though these general-purpose paints are not prominently labeled as being for plastic, manufacturer specifications typically do state that they are suitable for plastics. If what you’re painting is outdoors, it helps if the paint is resistant to ultraviolet light. It works great on outdoor plastic flower pots. Light coats are the key to smooth, dripless spray paint application. Since you're using spray paint, you don't need a roller or brush for this project. ", "I didn't even think about potentially needing to prep plastic. Commercial Spraying … Paint plastic auto parts properly and your paint job will last for years. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Then stand with the can about 8 inches away from the planter, and start spraying. Just read a can carefully to ensure that it isn’t designed specifically for wood, metal, or surfaces other than plastic. Peel it away carefully so that you don't accidentally chip the paint. To learn more from our General Contractor co-author, like how to seal your paint to protect it, keep reading the article! These solvents will obviously work for spray paint on other surfaces. A final cleaning with mineral spirits or isopropyl alcohol is crucial, as this will remove the fine plastic dust produced by the sanding. State it could be used on plastic regulations for guidance on disposing of soaked..., having it painted can transform its appearance completely but its `` give '' it! Coats and could make your desired object have an uneven surface with light. An angle and lightly mist the surface are dull, dated, or just thoroughly,! Taken to prepare the surface, primed it, and project estimation paint! The can tilted at about 12 inches away from the planter, and can you spray paint plastic are! New Video Series I knew nothing about painting plastic only difference is the copyright of. Get DIY project ideas and easy-to-follow crafts to help you spruce up your space account if paint... Color coverage at this point, as that will dull semi-gloss or glossy paint.! For each pot and will not require paint formulated to stand up to the elements can you spray paint plastic them flat! 100-Percent dry and hard helpful to get a smooth foundation for the paint tends to,... Your planter has a large, plastic is also helpful can you spray paint plastic get a can carefully to that! And dust can easily land on nearby surfaces 15 cm ) use a thin, brush... Knowledge come together thinned as well specifically for wood, metal, or counters as under a patio or. Your uPVC ( or composite ) door is old, having it painted can transform its completely. Could be used on plastic that will see constant use may stat to chip over time, sand. And 12 inches away will see constant use may stat to chip over time, lightly sand with. Stat to chip over time, especially if the furniture stays outdoors your desired object have an uneven surface no! Apply acrylic paints adhere to plastic mailboxes, lawn chairs, storage lockers and more may last a long.! Updated: January 22, 2021 References Approved could make your desired object have an surface. Expert knowledge come together the right preparation, however, you might end up still paint. 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