Alexei Volkov
Painting plastic chairs is a simple and inexpensive way to update your furniture. Whether your chairs are new to you or simply need a refresh, this DIY project can be completed in a few easy steps. First, you'll need to clean your chairs and prepare your workspace. Then, you'll want to sand, prime, and paint your chairs, allowing ample time for drying between each step. Finally, you'll be able to admire your handiwork!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Use hot water, an all-purpose cleaner, and a sponge to wash the chairs. For stubborn stains, use a cleaner with ammonia and spray it down with a garden hose. |
| Drying | Dry the chairs with a towel, then let them air dry completely. |
| Preparation | Cover any non-plastic surfaces with painter's tape. Choose a well-ventilated workspace and cover the floor with drop cloths or newspapers. |
| Sanding | Use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge to lightly sand the chairs, scuffing the surface to help the paint adhere better and removing any powder residue. |
| Priming | Use an outdoor primer formulated for plastic, such as True Value EasyCare® Premium Decor Spray Enamel. Spray the entire chair, holding the can 12-18" away and sweeping the motion. Let the primer dry as recommended. |
| Painting | Choose a spray paint meant for plastic, such as Krylon's Fusion for Plastic or Rust-Oleum. Hold the can 6-8" away and apply light, multiple coats in a sweeping motion, allowing 30-60 seconds of drying time between coats. |
| Drying | Let the paint dry for a few hours or at least 24 hours before using the chairs. |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing plastic chairs for painting
Preparing your plastic chairs for painting is a simple process, but it does require a few key steps to ensure the paint adheres well and the final product looks great. Here is a detailed guide to preparing plastic chairs for painting:
Cleaning and Drying
First, you'll want to clean the chairs thoroughly. Use a good all-purpose cleaner or degreaser to scrub the entire surface of the chair and remove any dirt, grime, or old paint. You can use a sponge or cloth with hot water, or for more heavily soiled chairs, use a hose or pressure washer to blast off the dirt. If the chair is brand new, a cloth soaked in paint thinner is recommended. Once the chair is clean, rinse it thoroughly with water and allow it to dry completely. You may want to leave it to dry for a few hours or even overnight to ensure no moisture remains.
Sanding
Lightly sanding the surface of the chair is optional but recommended, especially if the chair has been painted before. Fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge can be used to scuff up the surface, creating a slightly rough texture that will help the paint adhere better. Be sure to test your abrasive on an inconspicuous part of the chair first to ensure it doesn't create visible scratches.
Priming
Priming is another optional step, but it can be beneficial, especially if you want to use a particular colour not available in paints made specifically for plastic. Choose a primer designed for use on plastic, preferably one that is formulated for outdoor use if your chairs will be exposed to the elements. Shake the can thoroughly, then spray the entire chair in sweeping motions, holding the can about 12 to 18 inches from the surface. Allow the primer to dry for the amount of time recommended on the packaging before moving on to painting.
Workspace Preparation
Before you begin painting, set up your workspace in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. Cover the ground with drop cloths, old sheets, or newspapers to protect from paint drips. You may also want to wear old shoes and clothes that you don't mind getting splattered with paint.
Now that your plastic chairs are cleaned, dried, sanded (if desired), and primed (if desired), they are ready for painting! Be sure to follow the specific instructions for your chosen paint, as drying times and application techniques may vary.
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Choosing the right paint
Type of Paint
The best type of paint to use on plastic chairs is spray paint, specifically designed for plastic surfaces. This type of paint will adhere well to the plastic and provide a durable finish. Spray paint allows for a smooth and even application, making it ideal for achieving a professional-looking result. It is also a quick and easy method, perfect for a DIY project.
Primer
Consider using a primer before painting your plastic chairs, especially if the chairs have been painted before. A primer will help the paint adhere better to the surface and can fill in any small scratches or imperfections. Look for a primer specifically designed for use on plastic, such as True Value EasyCare® Premium Décor Spray Enamel, and apply it evenly to the entire surface of the chair. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to painting.
Colour and Finish
Spray paint comes in a wide range of colours, so you can choose one that matches your desired aesthetic. Consider the surrounding environment and decor when selecting a colour. Additionally, opt for a satin finish, which is recommended for plastic surfaces as it can provide a smooth and sleek appearance.
Number of Coats
The number of coats you will need depends on the desired coverage and the initial condition of the chairs. It is generally recommended to apply multiple light coats rather than one heavy coat, allowing each coat to dry for 30 to 60 seconds in between applications. This technique will ensure a more even and durable finish.
Topcoat
Consider applying a topcoat to protect the paint job and ensure its longevity. A polyurethane or polyacrylic topcoat can provide additional protection against scratches, fading, and other types of wear and tear. Check the paint instructions to determine the recommended topcoat for your chosen paint.
Remember to use the same brand of paint and topcoat to avoid any issues with compatibility and to ensure a uniform finish. With the right paint and a bit of preparation, you can give your plastic chairs a beautiful and long-lasting makeover.
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Painting techniques
Painting plastic chairs is a simple and inexpensive way to give them a new look. Here are some techniques to help you get started:
Preparation
Before painting, it is important to clean the chairs thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or mould. Use hot water, an all-purpose cleaner, and a sponge for this step. If the chairs have been painted before, you may need to use a paint thinner or a degreaser. Once they are clean, dry the chairs with a towel and let them air dry completely. If the chairs are faded, you can lightly sand them to scuff up the surface and make the paint stick better. Use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge for this step.
Workspace Setup
Choose a well-ventilated workspace, preferably outdoors, and cover the floor with drop cloths or newspapers. Cover any non-plastic surfaces, such as metal legs, with painter's tape to protect them from paint.
Priming
Priming the chairs will help the paint adhere better and allow you to use any kind of spray paint. Choose an outdoor primer formulated for use on plastic and apply it using a sweeping motion about 12 to 18 inches from the surface. Be sure to wear safety glasses and a dust mask for protection from paint mist. Let the primer dry for the recommended amount of time before moving on to painting.
Painting
When choosing a paint, opt for a spray paint that is specifically made for plastic. You can use a paint and primer in one to save time. Hold the can about 6 to 12 inches from the surface and use short, light, and even sprays in a sweeping motion. Apply multiple thin coats, allowing the paint to dry for 30 to 60 seconds between each coat. If you want to create a pattern or design, use painter's tape to mask off your desired design.
Drying
Once you are happy with the paint coverage, let the chairs dry for at least 24 hours before using them. Remove any painter's tape after the paint has completely dried.
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Drying and applying coats
Once your chair is thoroughly cleaned and dried, you can begin the painting process. If your chair has metal legs or other non-plastic surfaces, cover these with painter's tape. If your chair has been painted before, or if it has a particularly smooth surface, you may need to lightly sand the chair with fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge. Be sure to test your abrasive on an inconspicuous part of the chair first to ensure it doesn't scratch the surface. Next, you'll want to prime your chair. Choose an outdoor primer formulated for use on plastic and give the can a good shake. Spray the entire chair, holding the can about 12 to 18 inches from the surface and using a sweeping motion. Allow the primer to dry for the amount of time recommended on the packaging.
Now you're ready to start applying paint. Choose a spray paint formulated for use on plastic and hold the can about 10 to 12 inches from the surface of the chair. Apply a thin coat of paint using a sweeping motion, ensuring you keep the can moving as you spray. Don't worry about full coverage during this first coat. Let the first coat dry for about 30 minutes to an hour before applying a second coat. You can then decide if you need to apply any additional coats, depending on the desired finish and the colour of the paint you've chosen. Once you're happy with the coverage, let the chair dry for at least 24 hours before removing the painter's tape and using the chair.
To ensure the longevity of your handiwork, consider adding a protective topcoat, especially if your chair will be used outdoors. Choose a product that's formulated for plastic surfaces and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.
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Finishing touches
Once you've painted your plastic chair and it's had sufficient time to dry, you can begin to think about the finishing touches. Firstly, inspect the chair and make any necessary touch-ups for a polished and flawless finish. Get down and crawl around your chair and look at it from all angles to make sure all visible parts are painted. You can use a synthetic brush or a bristle brush that has been soaked in water overnight for any touch-ups.
If you want to take your chair to the next level, you can add some decorative elements. Consider using stencils, patterns, or decals to create unique designs and make your chair truly one-of-a-kind. You can also add a protective clear coat or sealer designed for plastic surfaces to shield your chair from wear and tear. This extra layer of protection will help preserve the paint and extend the chair's lifespan.
To ensure your painted plastic chair remains fresh and vibrant over time, regular maintenance and care are essential. Clean your chair periodically with a mild detergent and warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes that could damage the paint. Gently wipe the surface and rinse thoroughly. Protect your chair from excessive sun exposure and harsh weather conditions to prevent fading or deterioration.
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Frequently asked questions
Wash the chairs thoroughly using hot water and an all-purpose cleaner, then rinse and let them air-dry. If the chairs have been painted before, you may need to sand them lightly to scuff up the surface and help the paint stick. Cover any non-plastic parts of the chair with painter's tape, then take the chair outside or to a well-ventilated area.
You can use regular spray paint on plastic chairs, but you must first apply a primer formulated for use on plastic. Alternatively, you can use a paint that already contains primer, such as True Value X-O Rust Paint & Primer in One or Krylon Fusion All-In-One.
Hold the can of paint about 6-18 inches from the surface of the chair and apply the paint using a sweeping motion with slight overlap. Allow the paint to dry for 30-60 seconds, then apply more light coats until you are happy with the coverage.
Allow the paint to dry for a few hours before applying another coat. Once you have finished painting, let the chair dry for at least 24 hours before using it.
