Alexei Volkov
Painting a patina finish on plastic is a great way to transform inexpensive items into designer-looking pieces. It's a simple process that can create a gorgeous vintage metal look with a rusted feel. There are multiple ways to achieve a faux metallic patina finish on plastic, and the right paint and finish can make all the difference. Whether you're using a patina paint kit or creating your own mix, the key to success is in the preparation and application technique.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint | Acrylic or latex paint is best |
| Paint Colour | Black is good for pronounced rust |
| Paint Type | Spray paint that is not water-soluble |
| Base Coat | Flat sheen base coat for an even layer of rust |
| Glossy or Semi-Gloss Base Coat | Wash will wander into cracks and recesses |
| Wash | Burnt Sienna |
| Thinner Wash | Repeat the step several times |
| Dry | Use a hair dryer to accelerate drying |
| Rust Colour | Burnt Umber |
| Subtle Sheen | Silver acrylic |
| Sealant | Matte acrylic sealer |
| Sealant Options | Swellegant sealer, renaissance wax, krylon spray, or Testors' Dullcote |
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What You'll Learn
Use a primer to prepare the plastic surface for painting
Painting plastic can be challenging due to its chemical composition and smooth surface, which do not promote good paint adhesion. However, with proper preparation, you can achieve a professional-looking paint job. Here is a step-by-step guide to using a primer to prepare a plastic surface for painting:
Choose the Right Primer:
Select a primer specifically made for plastic. Most plastic primers contain alcohol and glue, which help the paint go on smoothly and adhere evenly without chipping or smudging. You can find primers made for plastic at any home improvement or craft store. If the plastic item is flexible or bends, avoid using an oil-based primer as they do not allow for movement. Instead, opt for an acrylic latex primer for exterior PVC surfaces.
Prepare Your Work Area:
Before priming, protect your work area by laying down a tarp or newspaper. This will prevent any primer from getting on unwanted surfaces. Ensure your work area is well-ventilated, as inhaling primer fumes can cause unpleasant side effects like headaches, dizziness, or nausea.
Clean and Sand the Plastic Surface:
Start by cleaning the plastic surface with soapy water or a mild detergent to remove any dirt, dust, or mildew. Rinse the surface thoroughly and let it dry completely. Once dry, sand the plastic surface with fine-grit sandpaper (around 200-grit). Sanding creates a rougher surface for better paint adhesion and helps remove any gloss from the plastic. After sanding, wipe away any dust with a damp cloth and let the surface dry.
Apply the Primer:
Shake the can of primer well. Hold the can about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) away from the surface and spray a thin, even layer of primer. Work in sections, moving your hand in even lines to avoid spraying the same area twice. Avoid applying a thick layer, as it may cause globbing and irregular bumps on the surface.
If you are concerned about chipping or scratching, you can apply two very thin layers of primer. Just be sure to let the first layer dry completely before applying the second. Place the primed plastic piece in a well-ventilated area and let it dry for at least an hour.
Final Preparations:
After the primer has dried, wipe down the surface with a paper towel or microfiber rag to ensure a smooth finish. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the primer to determine how long you should wait before applying the first coat of paint. Choose a paint that works well with the type of primer and plastic you are using.
By following these steps, you will effectively prepare your plastic surface for painting, ensuring a smooth and durable finish.
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Choose a base colour for your patina
The first step to painting a patina on plastic is to choose a base colour. This will be the colour of the patina once it is complete, so choose a colour that you like and that will suit the object you are painting. If you are going for a rusty look, black is a good base colour choice as it will give a more pronounced rust effect. You can also prime your plastic with a white base coat, which will work just fine.
If you want to create a more subtle suggestion of metal, dry-brush a thin layer of silver acrylic across the surface. This will deposit metallic specs in the paint for a subtle sheen. Flat sheen or semi-gloss base coats will also give a more even layer of rust. If you want to create a mottling effect with your copper patina, you can dab a dry paintbrush or sea sponge lightly in some aquamarine paint and apply it to various areas of your painted piece.
If you are painting wood, you can use a combination of spray paint and glaze. Spray paint will give an industrial feel and look to your piece. You can also use a paint brand called Angelus, which works well with leather.
Once you have chosen your base colour, you will need to apply a few coats, allowing drying time in between. Three to four layers of paint should be enough to create a consistent coverage. You can then apply your patina while the final layer of paint is still wet.
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Apply the patina paint
To achieve a patina look on plastic, you will need to apply several coats of paint, including a base coat and a patina paint.
First, you will need to prime the plastic surface. Modern Masters recommends priming any surface with a colour similar to your base or metallic tone. A solid white primer can work well for this. You can then follow this with a coat of primer included in the Patina Kit.
Next, you can apply your base colour. Black is a good choice if you want a pronounced rust effect. You can use spray paint for this, ensuring it is not water-soluble so that your rust effects do not remove the base coat. Allow sufficient drying time between coats.
Now, you can apply your patina paint. You can use a synthetic brush to apply the paint, or opt for a spray paint option. Apply three to four coats of paint, allowing drying time between each coat. The number of coats will depend on the coverage you want to achieve. Make sure to dab the paint into detailed sections and around the edges. You can also paint the reverse if you wish.
Once the final coat of paint is still wet, apply your patina. You can paint or dab on the patina, or use a spray bottle for a finer, more even coverage. Allow the patina to react with the paint and dry. The time needed for this will vary depending on the desired effect. You can leave it for a couple of days to allow it to develop fully.
Finally, you can seal your work with a sealant of your choice to preserve it. A matte acrylic sealer is recommended for a more authentic look, as real copper becomes less shiny and more matte as it weathers.
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Create a mottling effect with a dry paintbrush or sponge
To create a mottling effect with a dry paintbrush or sponge, you can follow these steps:
Firstly, it is important to prepare the surface you will be painting on. Cover any carpets, furniture, or other valuables in the room. Then, apply at least two coats of a mid-sheen paint in your chosen colour and allow it to dry thoroughly.
If you are using a paintbrush, you will need a stippling brush to create the mottling effect. Do not use a normal paintbrush, as it will not turn out right. After applying your base coat and leaving it to dry, paint your glaze over the base coat in a light coat. Then, gently touch the stippling brush to the surface in a rapid dabbing motion. Do not move the brush along the surface, just touch it and pull it back.
If you are using a sponge, there are two methods to achieve the mottling effect. For a textured look, paint the glaze in a light coat onto your base coat and dab at it with a dry or slightly damp sponge to remove the excess paint. Move randomly to create a unique finish, but be careful not to let the sponge become too saturated with paint. The second method involves pouring a little of your glaze colour into a paint tray or cutting bucket and dipping only the surface of a dry sponge into the paint. Then, dab off the excess paint and apply the sponge to the surface, gently dabbing at random to avoid creating a repetitive pattern.
You can also create a mottling effect by mixing light colours with dark or using paint colours that are very different from each other. This will result in a lively and attention-grabbing finish. If you want a more subtle effect, mix slightly different hues of the same basic colour to give a sense of depth and interesting shading.
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Seal your work with a matte acrylic sealer
To seal your work with a matte acrylic sealer, you can use a spray or brush-on formula. Spraying is the recommended method for applying acrylic sealers, as it provides an even finish. If you choose to brush on the sealer, make sure to thin it with xylene and clean your tools with xylene or acetone.
When selecting a sealer, opt for a product that is UV-resistant if your piece will be displayed outdoors to protect it from fading in the sunlight. You can also find sealers that are specifically designed for use on plastic, such as the Modern Masters Blue Patina Paint Kit, which includes a primer and bronze base paint.
There are a variety of matte acrylic sealers available on the market, such as Aleene's Spray Finish 6oz Acrylic Sealer, which is known for its quick-drying and durable finish. This product is suitable for a range of materials, including plastic, and provides a clear, non-yellowing finish.
When sealing your work, ensure that your workpiece is thoroughly cleaned and dried before applying the sealer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application, including the recommended number of coats and drying time between coats.
By sealing your painted patina on plastic with a matte acrylic sealer, you will protect your work from the effects of air and moisture, ensuring its longevity and preserving the authentic, weathered look of real copper.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a patina paint kit, such as the Modern Masters Blue Patina Paint Kit, which includes a primer. You can also use a combination of spray paint and glaze.
First, apply a coat of spray primer. Then, apply a coat of primer from the patina kit. After that, apply three coats of bronze paint, allowing drying time between coats. Finally, apply a coat of patina paint and, while it is still wet, spray it with water for a finer, more even coverage.
Dip a dry paintbrush or sea sponge in some aquamarine paint and dab it lightly onto various areas of your painted piece.
