Chloe Zhang
Painting plastic decoys is a great way to improve the appearance of old waterfowl decoys. The process can be time-consuming, but it is a rewarding task for hunters who want to create a realistic and persuasive display to attract birds. The first step is to thoroughly clean the decoys, removing any dirt or grime, and then drilling small holes to allow water and pellets to exit. After this, the decoys can be painted using a variety of methods, including spray paint, hand-brushing, or airbrushing, with water-based or acrylic exterior paint being the most commonly recommended types of paint. Some people also choose to add flocking, or fabric textile particles, to their decoys to help reduce glare and improve the overall appearance.
How to paint plastic decoys
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Painting plastic is harder than painting wood, metal or glass |
| Plastic type | Rigid plastics like PVC, ABS and polycarbonate are the easiest to paint |
| Paint type | Use spray paint, or brush paint with acrylic or enamel paint |
| Paint characteristics | Avoid latex paints as they don't bond well and may cause peeling or cracking |
| Prep work | Clean the plastic thoroughly to ensure paint adhesion |
| Sanding | Lightly sand the plastic to create a rough texture that helps paint grip the surface |
| Primer | Use a plastic-bonding primer to improve adhesion and durability |
| Painting technique | Apply the paint in light coats, not one heavy coat |
| Spraying technique | Hold the can 8-12 inches away from the plastic and spray at a 45-degree angle |
| Drying time | Let the plastic dry for at least two hours in a warm, dry environment |
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What You'll Learn
Paint types: water-based, exterior latex, or acrylic
Painting plastic decoys can be challenging, but with the right paint and preparation, you can achieve a durable and professional-looking finish. Here are some tips for choosing the right paint type, whether it be water-based, exterior latex, or acrylic.
Water-based paints are not commonly mentioned as a paint option for plastic decoys. However, if you do opt for water-based paint, ensure that you properly prepare the plastic surface for painting. Clean the decoy with warm soapy water and a soft sponge, or a scrub brush for textured areas. Rinse well and let it dry completely. Lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to create a rough texture that helps the paint adhere better.
Exterior latex paint can be used on plastic decoys, but it is important to note that it may not bond as well and could cause peeling or cracking over time. If you decide to use latex paint, it is crucial to properly prepare the plastic surface. Clean the decoy thoroughly and sand it lightly to improve paint adhesion. You can also consider using a primer specifically designed for plastic surfaces to improve paint adhesion and reduce the risk of peeling or cracking.
Acrylic paint is a suitable option for painting plastic decoys. It is important to ensure good adhesion to the plastic surface. While sandpaper can be used for prep, it may not be ideal for textured surfaces. An alternative is to wipe the decoy with acetone to create a rough texture for the paint to grip onto. Priming the decoy with a spray-on primer can also help improve the adhesion of acrylic paint. When using acrylic paint, be sure to stir or mix the paint well before application.
In addition to these paint types, there are also spray paints specifically designed for plastic surfaces, which can provide a smooth and even finish. When using spray paint, it is important to follow the same preparation steps of cleaning and lightly sanding the plastic decoy. Apply the paint in light, even layers, and allow each coat to dry completely before adding the next.
Regardless of the paint type chosen, proper preparation and application techniques are key to achieving a lasting finish on plastic decoys.
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Paint brands: Behr, Sherwin Williams, Diamond Vogel, or Krylon
When painting plastic decoys, it is important to consider the type of paint and the application process. Some popular paint brands for this purpose include Behr, Sherwin Williams, Diamond Vogel, and Krylon. Here is an overview of each brand and their suitability for painting plastic decoys:
Behr: Behr offers water-based paints that are suitable for painting decoys. They used to offer small bottles of sample paint, which were perfect for decoy painters as they provided just the right amount of paint needed. While it is unclear if these small jars are still available, Behr's water-based paint remains a good option.
Sherwin Williams: Sherwin Williams is known for its acrylic exterior house paint in a flat finish. They offer excellent colour-matching services, ensuring you can find the perfect shade for your decoys. Their paint adheres well to plastic surfaces, as some users have successfully used it to paint plastic decoys.
Diamond Vogel: Diamond Vogel is a well-regarded paint option for decoys, known for its durability and resistance to scratching. A recommended mixture is 2/3 flat enamel mixed with 1/3 gloss enamel, thinned with xylene. This combination provides a desirable sheen without compromising durability. However, this mixture may not be cost-effective for small-scale projects.
Krylon: Krylon offers a range of aerosol spray paints suitable for plastic surfaces. Their Fusion All-In-One spray paint is specifically designed for plastic and provides excellent adhesion. Krylon spray paints are available in various finishes, from textured to metallic, allowing for a diverse range of projects. It is important to follow the instructions on the can for the recommended application distance and drying time.
When using any of these paint brands, it is crucial to properly prepare the plastic surface before painting. This includes cleaning the surface, removing any hardware, and lightly sanding the decoy to ensure the paint adheres well and the final product is smooth and free of debris.
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Painting tools: brushes, spray paint, or airbrush
Painting tools play a crucial role in achieving the desired finish and overall aesthetics of your plastic decoys. Here are some insights into the three main options: brushes, spray paint, and airbrushes.
Brushes:
Painting brushes offer a high degree of control and precision when applying paint to plastic decoys. They are particularly useful for small details and intricate patterns. When choosing a brush, opt for those with exploded-tip nylon bristles that are 1 inch wide or less. These brushes provide the right stiffness to work effectively with the rough finish on decoys, unlike softer artist brushes. For example, you can use a small brush to lengthen and widen the white wing bars on each side of a mallard hen decoy.
Spray Paint:
Spray paint, such as rattle can paint, provides a quick and efficient way to cover large surfaces of plastic decoys. It can be used to apply a base coat of colour to the entire decoy or touch up specific areas. Spray paint is available in various finishes, but a satin finish is recommended for decoys as it provides the right amount of sheen without being too glossy.
Airbrushes:
An airbrush is a versatile tool that can be used for both decorative decoys and hunting decoys. It allows for a thin, precise application of paint, making it ideal for creating intricate details and achieving a smooth finish. However, if you're looking for a heavy coat, as some hunters might prefer for hunting decoys, an airbrush may not be the best choice.
Each painting tool has its advantages and considerations. Brushes offer precision and control, spray paint provides efficiency and coverage, while airbrushes give you the ability to create intricate details with a thin coat of paint. Ultimately, the choice of tool depends on the specific requirements of your plastic decoy painting project.
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Paint colours: flat black, tan, grey, or white
When it comes to painting plastic decoys, there are a few key steps to follow to ensure a successful outcome. Firstly, it is important to prepare the work area. Set up your workspace in a well-ventilated area, such as outdoors or under a patio awning, and protect the surrounding area from overspray, as this can produce a fine dust that will dull paint sheens. It is recommended to work on old cardboard rather than sheet plastic, as paint soaks into cardboard but tends to smear on sheet plastic.
Once your workspace is prepared, you can begin the process of painting your decoy. If you are using flat black paint, consider the Tremclad flat black rust paint mentioned in the forums, or the Krylon plastic primer and flat black spray paint. For a more textured look, you can lightly sand the surface of the decoy with fine sandpaper before painting, but be careful not to sand too vigorously, as this can create enough friction to melt the plastic.
If you are using tan paint, you can follow a similar process. Choose a paint that is specifically designed for use on plastic, such as the Krylon Fusion mentioned in the forums. This paint can be sprayed directly onto the decoy, and you can choose to use a cardboard cutout to protect certain areas of the decoy if you wish to create a more detailed design.
For grey paint, you can use the Krylon plastic primer and flat grey spray paint mentioned in the forums, or the Tremclad flat paint in a similar manner to the black paint. Remember to hold the can between 8 and 12 inches away from the plastic and tilt it at a 45-degree angle when spraying. This will help you achieve the best results and avoid drips.
Finally, for white paint, you can use the Krylon indoor/outdoor white primer and Tremclad flat white rust paint mentioned in the forums, or the Krylon plastic primer and flat white spray paint. As with the other colours, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and take your time when spray painting, as plastic is not a porous surface and requires a different technique to wood, paper, or cardboard.
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Flocking: adding fabric particles to reduce glare
Flocking is a process that involves depositing small fibre particles, known as flock, onto a surface. It is used to create a velvety texture and can be applied to a wide range of materials, including textiles, fabric, paper, PVC, toys, automotive plastic, and more. The process of flocking can enhance the appearance and functionality of the surface.
When it comes to painting plastic decoys, flocking can be an effective technique to reduce glare and minimise unwanted reflections. By applying a layer of fabric particles to the surface of the decoy, you can create a matte, non-reflective finish that helps to eliminate glare. This can be especially useful for decoys used in outdoor settings, where sunlight or artificial lighting may reflect off the plastic surface, potentially giving away the hunter's position or reducing the effectiveness of the decoy.
To flock a plastic decoy, you will need to follow several steps. First, ensure the substrate (the surface to be flocked) is clean, smooth, and properly treated to accept the adhesive effectively. This step is crucial for achieving a successful flocking outcome. Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the surface, and if necessary, lightly sand the surface with fine sandpaper to create a rougher, matte texture that will better adhere to the paint and flocking.
Once the substrate is prepared, apply a specialised adhesive uniformly across the surface. This adhesive will serve as the binding agent for the flock fibres. The type of adhesive used may vary depending on the specific material of the decoy and the environmental conditions it will be exposed to.
After applying the adhesive, you will introduce the flock fibres. This is typically done using a flocking machine, which gives the flock a negative charge while the substrate is earthed. The flock material will then be attracted to the substrate, vertically attaching itself to the adhesive. You can adjust the density and thickness of the flock layer to achieve the desired texture and appearance.
Flocking can be a versatile and effective technique for reducing glare on plastic decoys. It is important to follow the correct procedures and select the appropriate materials to ensure a successful outcome. Additionally, always ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area and taking the necessary safety precautions when working with adhesives and paints.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to use a flat finish paint, specifically designed for plastic, such as Testors Model paints, Sherwin Williams acrylic exterior house paint, or Krylon multi-surface spray paint. Behr Water-based paint is also a good option, as it comes in small bottles of sample paint, which is the perfect amount for painting decoys.
First, ensure the decoy is clean and dry. Lightly sand or scratch the surface to ensure the paint adheres well. Then, use a paintbrush or spray paint to apply the paint. If using a paintbrush, use light coats and focus on areas with the most wear. If using spray paint, ensure the area is well-ventilated and cover any areas you don't want to get painted.
To make your plastic decoys look more realistic, you can try flocking. This involves adding fabric textile particles to the decoy, which helps to absorb light and reduce glare. You can also try to match the paint color to the specific species of bird you are trying to attract.
