Spray paint works especially well for plastic, but you can use acrylic or enamel/model paint as well. It would be even better if the paint is meant for plastic. Check the label, and look for words such as: "Plastic" or "Multi-Surface."
Acrylic paint - Acrylic paint is a popular choice for painting plastic. It adheres well to smooth surfaces like plastic and dries fast. Make sure to use acrylic paint formulated for plastic and prime first.
Spray paint the plastic with either acrylic lacquer or vinyl inks. Acrylic lacquer works for rigid acrylics such as plexiglas and lucite. Use vinyl ink for flexible plastics like vinyl or polycarbonate (lexan).
Acrylic paint - Acrylic paint is a popular choice for painting plastic. It adheres well to smooth surfaces like plastic and dries fast. Make sure to use acrylic paint formulated for plastic and prime first.
Acrylic paint - Acrylic paint is a popular choice for painting plastic. It adheres well to smooth surfaces like plastic and dries fast. Make sure to use acrylic paint formulated for plastic and prime first.
To paint plastic effectively, you must have a good-quality paint and primer that will both ensure you get long-lasting, beautiful results. When it comes to paint for plastic, our experts always recommend Zinsser Allcoat Exterior as the best, especially for the average DIY'er.
“The best way to apply spray paint to a plastic surface is to always clean first and then lightly sand the piece if there are loose debris. Then, use Krylon Fusion All-In-One spray paint for the best adhesion!”
ColorBond is a molecular bonding paint that penetrates deep and is used to correct and restore vinyl, and plastic. ColorBond won't flake, crack or peel and is durable while still allowing the original texture to show through.
Spray paint works especially well for plastic, but you can use acrylic or enamel/model paint as well. It would be even better if the paint is meant for plastic. Check the label, and look for words such as: "Plastic" or "Multi-Surface."
They both refer to water-based acrylic paints commonly used for interior walls. Both offer a smooth, washable finish and come in a variety of colours and finishes. However, some manufacturers may use the term “plastic paint” for a slightly higher-grade emulsion with a more durable finish.
With our Matt Varnish acrylic lacquer, you also have the option of painting your plastic without a primer. Especially on surfaces that are hardly exposed to stress, such as doors or window frames, you can usually do without a sealant.
What paint doesn't wash off plastic? Oil-based and enamel paints are most resistant to washing off plastic, especially when used with a plastic-compatible primer and sealed with a clear coat.
Prime the Surface
If painting interior plastics, apply a high-adhesion latex stain-blocking primer. For outdoor plastics, spray-prime with specialized primers formulated specifically for adhesion to plastics.
Do you need to prime plastic before painting? It depends. If you're using a spray paint for plastic then you can skip the priming step. But if you're using regular old spray paint (which isn't recommended, but we get that sometimes it's just what you have), then definitely use a plastic primer spray first.
Plastic paint is known for its:
Versatility: Plastic paint adheres well to a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, masonry, and plaster. Easy application: Water-based acrylic paints are easy to apply, clean up with water, and have a quick drying time, making them convenient for both professional and DIY painters.
Many artists declare that FolkArt Multi-Surface Acrylic paint or DecoArt Americana Acrylic Multi Surface paint are the best for plastic, although there are numerous other choices available. Multi-Surface paint has a smooth and 'creamy' consistency that is easy to use.
Paint adheres far better to rougher, matte surface plastics than to glossy plastics. Since most plastic is glossy, sanding is an essential step. Lightly sand all surfaces with 180- to 220-grit sandpaper. Fine sandpaper such as this will prevent you from marring the surface.
The most common cause of paint peeling (or delamination) is due to inadequate surface preparation. In the case of plastics, you also need to consider the surface tension of the plastic and the surface tension of the primer coating (1st layer). The second most common reason for peeling is solvent entrapment.
These sprays are ideal for use on polypropylene, polystyrene, resin, PVC, fiberglass, and vinyl plastics such as chairs, tables, and planters. TIP: Some plastics made of polyethylene such as plastic storage containers are manufactured in a way that may hinder maximum paint adhesion.
It's important to apply paint in thin coats so that the solvents can escape. Applying oil-based spray paint too thickly can trap solvents and result in wrinkles or cracks.
Surface contamination such as dirt, oil, and grease. Polish residues on the surface, which impair the adhesion of the paint. Excessive movement of the substrate, such as joints, imposing stress on the paint film which can result in cracking which in turn lets in moisture, ultimately resulting in a flaking paint film.
Even though there are paints out there with a primer already included, when painting plastic it's a good idea to use a plastic-specific primer first for best adhesion. Do it after the surface is roughed up a bit with sandpaper and cleaned, and apply it in even light coats.
DIRECTOPLAST Gloss Spray Paint | 400ml | Suitable For Most Plastic Surfaces. JENOLITE DIRECTOPLAST Gloss Paint is an all-in-one primer, undercoat and topcoat is one single application. The specially formulated paint provides superior adhesion and ensures the provides an attractive and long lasting finish.
Acrylic paint, known for its adaptability, can work on plastic surfaces with the right preparation and application techniques. It adheres better than oil or watercolour paints, and once dried, it creates a durable and vibrant layer of colour.