Maya Ellison
Painting old plastic planters is a fun and easy DIY project that can give your garden a fresh new look. Whether you're starting with plain planters or trying to cover up sun-faded colours, a new coat of paint can make your planters look like new. You can use spray paint to achieve a variety of styles, from solid blocks of colour to faux finishes like terracotta or marble. With the right paint and preparation, you can transform your old plastic planters into stylish containers for your plants.
How to paint old plastic planters
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Clean the planter | Use dish soap mixed with water and a rag to clean the planter. |
| Remove existing flowers/dirt | Take out the existing flowers and dirt from the planter. |
| Roughen the planter's surface | Use fine-grit sandpaper to roughen the planter's surface, especially if it is glossy or smooth. |
| Hose down the planter | After sanding, hose down the planter to remove all the sanding dust and debris. |
| Dry the planter | Let the planter dry completely before painting. |
| Choose a well-ventilated area | Spray paint outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. |
| Wear protective gear | Wear safety goggles, a mask, and gloves to protect yourself from paint fumes and splatters. |
| Use a drop cloth | Place a plastic drop cloth, cardboard box, old sheet, or newspaper under the planter to catch any paint drips or spills. |
| Elevate the planter | Use bricks, blocks of wood, or rocks to elevate the planter off the ground or drop cloth. |
| Prime the planter | Apply a plastic primer or an adhesive promoter to the planter to help the paint adhere better. |
| Lightly coat the planter with paint | Spray the planter with light coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. |
| Choose the right paint | Use paint that is specifically formulated for plastic and outdoor use, such as Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Spray Paint or Crommelin Liquidstone Terracotta. |
| Consider the sheen | Choose between a glossy or matte finish, keeping in mind that glossy surfaces are easier to clean. |
| Allow for drying time | Let the final coat of paint dry for at least 48 hours before using the planter. |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right paint
Type of Paint
Most paints require a primer when being applied to plastic, as they do not adhere well to smooth plastic surfaces. Look for paints that are specifically designed for use on plastic, such as the Crommelin 1L Liquidstone Terracotta, which can be applied directly to plastic. If you are using a paint that requires a primer, choose a plastic primer that will help the paint adhere to the surface, such as the Valspar Grey Primer.
Indoor or Outdoor Use
If you plan to use the painted planters outdoors, it is essential to select a paint that is suitable for outdoor use. Look for paints that are labelled as "outdoor" and can withstand exposure to the elements. The Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Spray Paint is a good option for outdoor use, as it is specifically designed for use on plastic and outdoor applications.
Sheen
The sheen of the paint, whether glossy or matte, will impact the final look of your planter. Glossy surfaces are generally easier to clean, while matte finishes offer a more subtle and modern look. Keep in mind that potting soil may stick to matte finishes, making it slightly more challenging to clean.
Colour and Design
The colour and design of the paint will depend on your personal preference and the aesthetic you wish to achieve. You can choose from a wide range of colours, from light shades like aqua to darker hues like black or army green. You can also experiment with different painting styles, such as metallic spray paint, faux painting treatments, stencils, or vinyl appliques.
Water-based vs. Oil-based Paint
When it comes to painting plastic, it is generally recommended to use water-based paint instead of oil-based paint. Water-based paint typically adheres better to plastic surfaces and provides a more durable finish.
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Preparing the planter
Firstly, ensure that you have removed any existing flowers or dirt from the planter. This step is crucial as the spray paint will get everywhere and ruin your plants. You can use dish soap mixed with water and a rag to clean the planter thoroughly. If your planter is particularly old and crusty, you may need to use a pressure washer to remove stubborn dirt and grime.
Once your planter is clean, let it dry completely. If your planter has a smooth or glossy finish, you will need to roughen the surface with fine-grit sandpaper. This step will help the paint adhere better to the plastic. Don't worry about creating visible scratches, as these will not be noticeable after painting. After sanding, ensure you hose down the planter to remove all the sanding dust and debris, then let it dry again.
If you are painting outdoors, choose a mild, non-windy day to work. Cover the ground with a plastic drop cloth, or use an old sheet or newspaper to protect the area from spray paint. You can use bricks, blocks of wood, or rocks to elevate the planter off the ground.
Before you begin painting, it is essential to wear the proper safety gear, including safety goggles, a mask, and gloves. If you are using a spray paint that requires a primer, apply the primer first, following the manufacturer's instructions. Some paints, like Crommelin 1L Liquidstone Terracotta, can be applied directly to plastic without a primer. If your plastic planter is shiny, it is recommended to scuff it up with a Scotch-Brite pad before painting.
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Painting techniques
Painting plastic planters can be a fun and creative project, and it's a great way to give new life to old, faded pots. Here are some painting techniques to help you get started:
Preparation:
Before you start painting, it's important to prepare your work area and your planters. Choose a day when it's not too windy, and set up outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Cover the ground with a plastic drop cloth, old sheets, or newspaper to protect the surface from paint. You can use bricks, blocks of wood, or rocks to elevate the pot and make it easier to spray paint. Be sure to wear safety goggles, a mask, and gloves for protection.
Remove any existing flowers or dirt from your planter. You can use dish soap mixed with water and a rag to clean the pot thoroughly. If your planter has a smooth or glossy finish, use fine-grit sandpaper to roughen the surface. This will help the paint adhere better. After sanding, hose down the planter to remove any dust or debris, and let it dry completely before painting.
Priming:
Priming your planter is an important step to ensure the paint adheres well to the plastic surface. Look for a primer that is specifically designed for use on plastic, such as Valspar Grey Primer or Rustoleum Paint and Primer 2x. Apply a light coat of primer to the entire planter, following the instructions on the product.
Spray Painting:
When spray painting your planter, always use light coats to avoid drips and ensure a smooth finish. Start by spraying the bottom of the planter and the bottom of any lip or ledge around the top. Allow the primer to dry for at least an hour, or as directed by the manufacturer. Once dry, turn the planter over and apply another light coat of spray paint. Repeat this process, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next, until you have a smooth and even finish.
Decorative Techniques:
Once you've achieved a solid base coat, you can get creative with decorative techniques. Try using stencils, vinyl appliques, or metallic paints to add unique designs to your planter. You can also experiment with different sheens, such as glossy or matte, to achieve the look you desire. If you're using vinyl decorations, be sure to use outdoor-quality vinyl for durability.
Drying and Curing:
After you've finished painting, allow your planter to dry for at least 48 hours before handling or planting. This will ensure that the paint is fully cured and will reduce the risk of smudging or damage.
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Drying and curing
Drying:
After cleaning and sanding your plastic planter, it is crucial to allow it to dry completely before moving on to the painting step. This step ensures that any residual moisture does not affect the adhesion of the paint. Place the planter in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to speed up the drying process. If you are in a humid environment, consider using a fan to facilitate faster drying.
Curing:
The curing process involves allowing the paint to dry and harden after application. Once you have finished painting your planter, place it in a dry, well-ventilated area. It is recommended to allow the paint to cure for at least 24 to 48 hours before adding any plants or using the planter. This extended curing time ensures that the paint is fully dried and less likely to chip or scratch.
Additionally, consider the weather conditions when curing your painted planter. Avoid extreme temperatures or high humidity, as they can affect the curing process. If possible, choose a mild, dry day to paint your planter and allow it to cure.
To speed up the curing process, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting, maintaining a safe distance from the planter to avoid overheating the paint. You can also place the planter in direct sunlight, as the warmth can help accelerate the curing process. However, be cautious not to leave it in direct sunlight for too long, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the paint to fade over time.
During the curing process, avoid handling the planter or adding any decorations or embellishments. Any contact with the paint during this period may leave marks or smudges. It is essential to be patient and allow the paint to fully cure before using your newly painted planter.
By following these drying and curing instructions, you will achieve a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish on your old plastic planters.
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Decorating and finishing
Now that you've primed your planter, it's time to decorate and finish it! The first step is to choose your paint. You can use any colour you like, but it's important to use paint that is specifically designed for plastic if you want your paint job to last. Look for paint that is labelled as suitable for outdoor use and plastic adhesion. You can also get creative with the finish, opting for a matte or glossy sheen. If you're going for a matte look, be aware that potting soil may stick to the paint and be difficult to remove. If you're set on a matte finish but want to avoid this issue, you can apply a textured stone paint over your chosen colour to give the planter a cement or concrete look.
If you're feeling extra creative, you can try out some decorative techniques. You can use stencils or freehand designs to add cute patterns to your planter. You can also try out faux painting treatments, such as metallic paint or copper patina. If you want to give your planter a terracotta look, you can use a product like Crommelin Liquidstone.
Once you've chosen your paint and decorations, it's time to start painting! If you're using spray paint, it's best to work outdoors and use a cardboard box to contain the spray. Make sure to wear safety goggles, a mask, and gloves to protect yourself from the paint. Start by spraying the bottom of the planter with a light coat of paint. If your planter has a lip or ledge, be sure to spray that as well. Allow the paint to dry for an hour or less, then turn the planter over and give it another light coat. Repeat this process until you have a smooth coat of solid paint.
If you're using a different type of paint, such as acrylic paint, you can follow a similar process. Just be sure to use light coats and allow the paint to dry between coats. Once you're happy with the coverage, you can add any additional decorations, such as vinyl appliques. Finally, let your planter dry for at least 48 hours before using it.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use spray paint to paint old plastic planters. If you want to use regular paint, make sure it is water-based. Avoid oil-based paint.
Yes, it is recommended to use a primer before painting plastic planters. Look for a primer that is suitable for plastic.
Light coats are the key to a smooth finish. Apply several light coats of paint minutes apart, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.
Clean the planter with dish soap and water, and let it dry completely. If the planter is glossy or smooth, rough it up with fine-grit sandpaper to give the paint something to cling to.
If you are painting outdoors, choose a day that is not windy. Wear safety goggles, a mask, and gloves. You may also want to consider the sheen of the paint—do you prefer a glossy or matte look?
