Alexei Volkov
Painting soft plastic baits can be done in a variety of ways, with some methods including the use of an airbrush and water-based craft paints. However, it is important to note that water-based paints may not be suitable for soft plastics as they can rub off easily. An alternative option is to use a paint/dye specifically designed for colouring soft plastics before they are moulded. Another method is to use an airbrush and then dip the bait in clear plastisol for a 'clear coat'. The necessary supplies for lure painting, including stencils, airbrushes, and top coats, can be purchased online.
How to paint soft plastic baits
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint type | Paint/dye |
| Paint application | Airbrush |
| Top coat | Clear plastisol |
| Painting supplies | Lure stencils, airbrushes, top coats |
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What You'll Learn
Airbrushing and clear plastisol dipping
Airbrushing is considered the best way to paint soft plastic baits if you have the equipment. It's not too expensive, and a small amount of paint should go a long way, provided you can control overspray. You can also use a small sponge brush to apply paint, but be careful not to over-paint.
If you want to change the colour of your bait, you can use Spike It dye, which works well on smoke, pumpkin, and watermelon-coloured baits. However, it will not work on black worms. To change the colour of a black worm, you can try plastic welding. Cut the same portions off a chartreuse and a purple worm, for example. Then, heat the two cut ends simultaneously using a candle. When the plastic softens, stick them together and hold for ten seconds. Lay each finished worm out to cool straight and flat.
Another option is to use UV Blast Plastic Spray or UV plastic additive, which can create amazing contrast changes to plastics underwater. You can also try coring clears with a syringe and a squirt of dye inside.
Finally, you can try clear plastisol dipping. This technique involves dipping your bait in clear plastisol to give it a shiny, wet look. Clear plastisol is a liquid plastic that dries to form a flexible, durable coating.
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Using paint/dye before moulding
When using paint or dye before moulding soft plastic baits, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, not all types of paint or dye will be compatible with the soft plastic lure material. It is crucial to select a product specifically designed for use on soft plastics, as some dyes may not adhere well to certain types of elastic and stretch materials commonly used in lure construction.
One option for customising the colour of your soft plastic baits is to use specialised lure dyes. These dyes typically require multiple dips to achieve a full colour change. For example, you might dip the lure in the dye solution, let it dry for about 10 seconds, and then repeat the process a few times until the desired colour intensity is achieved. This method allows for a gradual build-up of colour, ensuring a consistent and attractive finish.
Alternatively, you can use markers designed for soft plastic lures. These markers offer a convenient way to add details and touch up colours. They are particularly useful for creating eyes on your baitfish by adding small dots on either side of the lure. Markers provide more precision and control compared to dipping, allowing you to create intricate designs or patterns.
When painting or dyeing soft plastic baits, it is important to consider the type of material used in their construction. While most standard plastisol soft plastic lures accept dye well, certain elastic and stretch materials may not produce satisfactory results. Always test the paint or dye on a small area first to ensure compatibility and achieve the desired finish. Additionally, consider using a top coat to protect the colour and ensure its longevity.
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Stencilling
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to stencil your soft plastic baits:
- Gather your supplies: You will need a lure stencil, which you can find at most tackle shops or online. Choose a design that you like and make sure it is the right size for your bait. You will also need paint, an airbrush (if you want a more precise and even application), and a top coat to protect your design.
- Prepare your bait: Ensure your soft plastic bait is clean and dry before you start painting. If it has any factory finish, you may need to lightly sand it to create a rough surface that will better take the paint.
- Position your stencil: Place the stencil carefully on the bait, holding it in place with one hand, or using low-tack tape to secure it. Make sure the stencil is flat and firmly in contact with the surface to avoid any paint bleeding underneath.
- Paint: Using your chosen paint, carefully fill in the stencil design. It's important to use light, even coats to avoid oversaturation, which can cause the paint to bleed under the stencil. If using an airbrush, hold it about 6-8 inches away from the surface and use a gentle, sweeping motion.
- Remove the stencil: Carefully lift the stencil straight up and away from the bait to avoid smudging your design.
- Top coat: Once your paint is completely dry, apply a top coat to protect your design. This will also give your bait a more finished look and feel.
With this technique, you can create detailed and attractive designs on your soft plastic baits, making them more visually appealing to both yourself and, hopefully, the fish!
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Choosing the right paint
Water-based craft paints, for example, tend to rub right off soft plastics, so they should be avoided. Instead, look for paints or dyes specifically designed for use on soft plastics. These can be found at specialty tackle shops or online.
One option is to use an airbrush to apply the paint. This technique is often favoured by professional painters and allows for precise and even coverage. After painting, you can dip the bait in clear plastisol for a protective 'clear coat' finish.
Another option is to tint the plastic with a paint/dye before pouring it into the moulds. This method ensures that the colour is evenly distributed throughout the bait, resulting in a consistent and long-lasting finish.
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Applying a top coat
Prepare your workspace by laying out all the necessary materials, including your painted lures, an airbrush or brush, and the clear coat solution. Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area or wearing a respirator to avoid inhaling any fumes. Clear coat solutions often come in spray or liquid form, so choose the type that suits your application method.
If you're using a spray, hold the can or spray bottle approximately 6-12 inches away from the lure and spray in light, even coats. Ensure you're spraying in a steady back-and-forth motion to get an even coverage. It's generally better to apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat to avoid dripping or an uneven finish.
For a brush-on application, use a soft, fine-bristled brush and gently dip it into the clear coat solution. Carefully apply the top coat to the lure, following the direction of the paint strokes you used previously. This helps to ensure a consistent finish that enhances the underlying paint job. Take care not to overload your brush to avoid drips and runs.
Regardless of the application method, it's crucial to allow adequate drying time between coats. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying times, but typically, it's best to wait at least a few hours or even overnight before handling the lures or applying additional coats.
Finally, once you've applied the desired number of coats (usually 2-3 is sufficient), give the top coat ample time to cure. This process may take a day or two, depending on the product and environmental conditions. Your lures will be ready for use once the top coat is fully cured, resulting in a durable, glossy, and professional finish.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use an airbrush and then dip the bait in clear plastisol for a 'clear coat'.
Barlow's Tackle carries all the lure painting supplies you need, including lure stencils, airbrushes, and top coats.
You can tint the plastic to your desired color before pouring it into the molds.
