Maya Ellison
Painting plastic sunglasses can be a fun way to add a unique touch to your eyewear. However, it is important to note that there are risks involved, as you may cause permanent damage or be unhappy with the results. Before you begin, it is recommended to use an old pair of sunglasses or a cheap pair that you are not too attached to. The first step is to carefully remove the lenses to protect them from paint. Then, you can start the painting process. Some popular methods include using nail polish, Sharpies, spray paint, or automotive paint markers. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to choose one that suits your needs and the type of plastic sunglasses you have. Let's explore the different ways to paint plastic sunglasses and the steps involved in achieving a satisfactory result.
How to paint plastic sunglasses
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Risk | Painting sunglasses is risky as there is a chance of permanent damage or dissatisfaction with the results. |
| Preparation | Protect the lenses by removing them if possible. Use glue to protect the hinges from paint. Use painter's tape or masking tape to cover areas that should not be painted. |
| Paint type | Spray paint is the easiest method for plastic and provides a consistent finish. Automotive paint markers are perfect for metal frames. Nail polish is also an option but tends to get sticky and gross and takes a long time to cure. |
| Application | Work in a well-ventilated area. Use light coats and allow each coat to dry for about 45 minutes. Use a hair dryer to warm the frame and expand the plastic for easier lens insertion. |
| Finishing | Apply a coat of clear sealant to keep the paint from rubbing off. |
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What You'll Learn
Removing lenses from plastic sunglasses
Removing the lenses from your plastic sunglasses is the best option to ensure they are not damaged while you paint the frames. Some frames make this easier than others.
First, examine your glasses to determine how the frames hold the lenses. Your lenses may be secured with small screws on both sides of the frames, or they may be snap-in lenses. If your lenses are secured with screws, use an eyeglass screwdriver to remove them by turning in a counterclockwise direction.
If your lenses are snap-in, there are several methods you can use to remove them. One method is to heat the frames to loosen the plastic. You can do this by filling a bowl with hot water and submerging your frames for one minute. Alternatively, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting, blowing hot air on the frames for about five minutes. Be careful not to melt the plastic. Once the frames are heated, gently push on the concave side of the lens until it pops out.
If you are having difficulty removing the lenses, you can try using warm soapy water to help loosen them. Submerge the frames in the water for about 30 seconds, and then try again. If you are still unable to remove the lenses, consider taking your glasses to a local optical shop for assistance.
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Preparing the frames for painting
Before you start painting your plastic sunglasses, you must prepare the frames. Firstly, decide whether you want to remove the lenses or not. Removing the lenses is the best option if it can be done safely, as it will ensure they remain paint-free. If you are confident that you can paint the frames without getting any paint on the lenses, you can leave them in and simply cover both sides of each lens with painter's tape.
Next, clean the frames with warm soapy water and dry them with a soft cloth. If you want to paint the inner part of the frames, be sure to tape over the lenses. You can also use painter's tape to cover any areas or logos you don't want to be painted.
Now, it's time to prepare the frames for better paint adhesion. Use steel wool or fine-grain sandpaper to dull the shine of the frames and create a rough surface for the paint to stick to. Be sure to get inside the groove where the lenses go as well. Once you're finished, use a clean, soft cloth to remove any dust or debris.
Finally, if your frames have hinges, apply a small amount of glue to each hinge to prevent them from getting clogged up with paint. Allow the glue to dry for about 30 minutes before proceeding to the painting stage.
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Painting techniques for plastic
Painting plastic can be a tricky endeavour, as plastic is not a porous material, so paint has little to stick to. However, with the right amount of preparation, you can paint plastic successfully.
Firstly, choose a well-ventilated work area with good lighting and cover your surfaces with newspaper, cardboard, or a cheap tablecloth. If there are any parts of the plastic you do not wish to paint, cover them with painter's tape.
Next, clean the plastic with mild dish soap and warm water to remove any surface dirt. Rinse with fresh water and dry the item off. You can use a soft cloth or sponge for smooth surfaces and a scrubbing brush for textured surfaces.
Then, lightly buff the surface with 220 to 300-grit sandpaper, using a light touch and a circular motion to avoid scratches. Wipe the surface with a tack cloth once you are done. Sanding is important to ensure the paint sticks to the plastic.
Now you are ready to paint. Choose a paint that is suitable for plastic. If you are using spray paint, hold the can between 8 and 12 inches away from the plastic, with the can tilted at about a 45-degree angle. Spray lightly across the surface, moving in a forward direction to avoid spray dust. Do not aim for total colour coverage as this will lead to drips. Let the plastic dry for at least two hours in a warm, dry environment.
Apply a second coat of paint, again keeping the paint can tilted and lightly misting the surface. Spraying from too far away can result in a dusty, grainy coat of paint. Allow the plastic to dry for a few hours again, and then give the surface a final coat of paint. If there are any drips, wait until the paint is 100% dry and hard before sanding them down flat.
Finally, if desired, finish with a coat of clear sealant to keep the paint from rubbing off.
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Sealing the paint on plastic
Sealing paint on plastic requires a few steps to ensure the paint adheres and does not peel or fade. Firstly, it is important to prepare the plastic surface by cleaning it with soapy water and a sponge. This ensures that any dirt or residue is removed before painting. After rinsing, the surface must be allowed to dry completely.
The next step is to sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper, between 120 and 220 grit. This process adds a slight roughness to the smooth plastic surface, allowing the paint to adhere better. Sanding in a circular or straight-line motion will level the surface. The dust from sanding can be removed with a blower, vacuum, or a cloth.
Once the surface is prepared, it is important to choose the right paint and sealant. Some paints are specifically designed to adhere to plastic, such as spray paints like Rust-Oleum and Krylon Fusion. When choosing a sealant, consider the finish you want to achieve, as there are different options available, such as matte, glossy, or regular finish. The sealant can be applied with a brush or spray can, depending on the size of the surface being painted.
After painting, allow each layer of paint to dry completely before applying the sealant. The sealant will protect the paint from fading and ensure that the colour is preserved. It is important to follow the instructions on the paint and sealant cans for drying times and application methods. Once the final coat of sealant has been applied, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before handling the object to ensure it is fully dry and set.
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Reinserting lenses into painted frames
Once the frames are heated, you can begin the process of inserting the lenses. Line up the edge of the lens with the frame, starting with the side closest to the arm. Use your thumb to gently push the lens into the nose area, ensuring that the top inside edge of the lens snaps into the corresponding inside groove of the frame. You should hear a clicking sound, indicating that the lens is in place. Repeat this process for the second lens.
As you work, be mindful not to get too much paint in the inner groove of the frames, as this will make it more difficult to insert the lenses. Additionally, be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can damage the lenses or frames. If you encounter significant resistance, reheat the frames and try again.
Once both lenses are in place, perform a safety test by running your fingers around the edges of the lenses to ensure they are secure. If the lenses feel loose or unstable, remove them and repeat the heating and insertion process, ensuring that the frames are sufficiently heated and the lenses are properly aligned with the grooves.
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