Sofia Martinez
Painting plastic goose decoys can be a fun project, and there are many ways to go about it. You can use a paint kit, such as the ones offered by Cabela's, or you can use spray paint. If you're painting plastic decoys, it's important to use paint that will adhere to the plastic, such as a plastic primer or a plastic Krylon paint. You can also add flocking to your decoys, which refers to the addition of fabric textile particles that absorb light similarly to actual feathers and help reduce glare on plastic decoys. This can be a cheap way to add an expensive touch to your decoys.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint type | Flat finish, acrylics, spray paint, roll-on paint, satin finish, enamel |
| Paint brand | Diamond Vogel, Sherwin Williams, Testors Model, Krylon "Textured Plastic", Cabela's, Parker Brothers, Jansen |
| Paint colour | Flat black, flat white, grey, brown |
| Additional tools | Stiff brush, scotch brite pad, plastic primer, multi-surface sealer, soap and water, air compressor |
| Additional tips | Paint from tail to head, use flocking for a more expensive look, cut out silhouettes from corrugated plastic, use a roller for faster painting |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning plastic goose decoys
Firstly, it is crucial to remove any heavy grime and build-up from the decoys. This not only helps to improve their appearance but also reduces the risk of transporting aquatic invasive species. A simple and effective method is to use a bucket of mild, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to scrub away the dirt. For decoys with flocking, soft fibres on the heads and bodies, an air compressor can be used for damage-free cleaning.
If your decoys have stubborn mud or dirt, a stronger cleaning solution may be needed. One option is to use a foaming cleaner, such as Tuff Stuf, which can be sprayed on, left for a minute, and then scrubbed with a soft brush. Another suggestion is to use a mixture of vinegar and water, which is a cost-effective and natural alternative to chemical cleaners.
For decoys with more extensive mud caking, a more intensive cleaning approach can be taken. One method is to use a power washer on a low PSI setting to avoid damaging the paint. Alternatively, a garden hose can be used for a gentler stream of water, ensuring the finish lasts longer. It is important to note that power washers can be risky as they may damage the paint, so a soft brush and water are often sufficient for regular cleaning.
In some cases, a stronger cleaning agent may be required. Bleach, for example, can be misted onto the decoys with a power washer and then rinsed off. However, it is important to exercise caution when using bleach as it may affect the paint or flocking. Another powerful option is to use acetone, which is highly effective at removing mud.
Lastly, it is important to ensure your plastic goose decoys are thoroughly dried before painting. This can be done by air-drying them or using a soft cloth to absorb any remaining moisture. Once they are completely dry, you can start the painting process, ensuring you use a paint or primer that adheres well to plastic.
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Choosing the right paint
Painting plastic goose decoys can be a fun project, and there are several options to consider when choosing the right paint. Firstly, it is important to use paint that is specifically designed to adhere to plastic surfaces. This will ensure that the paint sticks properly to the decoy and does not peel or chip off easily. Some recommended paints for this purpose include Krylon "Textured Plastic" spray paint and Bulldog plastic primer, which can provide a good base for the paint to adhere to.
Another factor to consider is the colour and finish of the paint. Flat or satin finishes are often preferred over glossy finishes for decoys as they create a more natural, feather-like appearance. Common colours used for goose decoys include black, white, grey, and brown. It is also important to consider the complexity of the goose's coloration. For example, painting a Canada goose may require blending and mixing colours right on the decoy, which can be challenging for those unfamiliar with paint techniques.
If you are painting multiple decoys, the type of paint you choose can also impact the efficiency of your project. Roll-on paint can be a good option for painting large numbers of decoys, as it can cover a larger surface area more quickly than a brush. However, it is important to ensure that the paint you choose can provide adequate coverage and the desired finish. Spray paint is another option that can speed up the painting process, but it may require more paint to achieve the desired coverage.
Finally, if you are looking for a more advanced technique, flocking can be added to your decoys. This involves adhering fabric textile particles to the decoy, which helps to reduce glare and creates a more realistic feathered appearance. Flocking material is available in various colours and can be found in craft stores or online. This additional step can enhance the overall appearance and effectiveness of your plastic goose decoys.
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Painting techniques
Painting plastic goose decoys can be a fun project. Here are some techniques to help you get started:
Firstly, you will need to clean your decoys. Use a bucket of mild, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to remove any heavy grime and build-up. If your decoys have flocking, use an air compressor for damage-free cleaning. Ensure the decoys are completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Next, you will need to choose the right paint. It is important to use paint that is specifically designed to adhere to plastic. Options include plastic spray paint, such as Krylon "Textured Plastic" spray paint, or a plastic primer. If you are using acrylic paint, it is recommended to first seal the decoy with a coat of marine spar varnish or two coats of Deft Satin Brushing Lacquer. You can also use a paint kit, such as the ones offered by Cabela's, which include detailed instructions and specific colours for different types of decoys.
When it comes to the painting technique itself, you can use a brush or a roller, or you can spray paint your decoys. If using a brush, opt for a stiff brush with square-tipped bristles, which will allow you to push and pull paint around on the decoy. Always start painting at the tail and work your way forward, mirroring the overlap of actual feathers to achieve a natural look. If using a roller, paint one side, let it dry, and then paint the other. Remember to paint the top edge of the plastic, as this can flash in the sunlight.
If you are painting a goose silhouette, you will first need to draw the goose shape on corrugated plastic. You can freehand this or use a template. Cut out the shape with a razor knife or jigsaw, and then insert a wire stake through the corrugated channels. Paint the decoy black, and then add a white patch on the throat and one on the rump to create a black-and-white goose silhouette.
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Adding details and blending colours
Painting plastic goose decoys can be a fun project, and there are several ways to approach it. You can use a paint kit, or you can mix and blend your own colours. If you want to add intricate details and achieve a natural look, here are some tips to help you:
Start by selecting the right paint. You can use a plastic primer, such as Krylon, or a multi-surface sealer, and then coat the decoy with paint. It is important to use paint that adheres to plastic. You can thin out the paint from kits to play around with the colours and create the desired shades. If you are mixing your own colours, a combination of 2/3 flat enamel and 1/3 gloss enamel, thinned with xylene, can result in a durable finish. You can also use acrylic paint, sealing it first with a coat of marine spar varnish or Deft Satin Brushing Lacquer.
Next, prepare the surface of the decoy. Scrub it with soap and water, and use a stiff brush to remove any old paint. Once the decoy is dry, you can begin painting.
When painting, use the largest brush possible. Stiff, square-tipped bristles, or "flats", allow you to push and pull paint around, and are handy for blending when dry. Start painting at the tail and work your way forward to achieve a natural look that mirrors the overlap of actual feathers. Use angle brushes for crisp edges.
To add details, you can experiment with different colours. For a simple black-and-white goose, add a white patch to the throat and rump. Cut out a swooping shape from leftover plastic and place it over the head as a template before spraying with white paint. You can also try flocking, which refers to adding fabric textile particles to your decoy. This helps reduce glare and can be especially useful if you hunt in high-pressure areas. Flocked heads are common for Canada geese, and you can use a deep black material for this.
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Using flocking
Painting plastic goose decoys with flocking is a great way to add a premium touch to your decoys without the premium price tag. Flocking helps to get rid of shine and glare, making your decoys stand out. You can buy flocking kits for Canada goose decoys online, which come with black flocking for the heads and tails and white flocking for the cheek patches.
Before you start flocking, it's important to prepare the decoy. If you're working with a used decoy, use sandpaper, a wire brush, or sandblasting to remove any loose paint. Then, rinse the decoy, but avoid using soap. Next, apply a coat of paint to the decoy. Flat acrylic paint in a colour that matches the flocking works well. You can also use Rustoleum oil-based paint, or spray paint that bonds well with plastic. Make sure the paint is thick but not runny.
Once the paint is applied, it's time to start flocking. Sprinkle the flocking over the wet paint, covering it completely. Tap the decoy periodically to help set the fibres into the paint. After the paint is covered with a thick coat of flocking, give the decoy a final dusting of flocking and allow the paint to dry. It's recommended to let the decoy cure for two weeks before using it.
Flocking can be a messy process, so it's a good idea to wear a dust mask and do the flocking over a plastic tote to catch any excess.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a plastic primer and then paint, or a paint that is designed to stick to plastic. Some brands that offer these paints include Krylon, Bulldog, and Jansen.
Flat black and flat white are commonly used as a base for goose decoys. Other colours can be blended on top to create the desired effect.
For larger quantities of decoys, use roll-on paint and a roller. For smaller quantities, use a paintbrush.
Clean the decoys with soap and water and a stiff brush to remove any dirt or old paint. Then, scrub the decoys with a scotch brite pad to create a surface that the paint can better adhere to.
Paint the top edge of the plastic to prevent flashing in the sunlight. Start painting at the tail and work your way forward to achieve a natural look.
