Omar Khalid
Painting plastic body parts is a great way to revamp the exterior of a car or spruce up an old outdoor chair. However, it is important to prep the plastic body parts before painting to ensure a professional-looking paint job. The process of preparing plastic body parts for painting involves several steps, including cleaning, sanding, and priming the surface. Firstly, it is essential to remove any previously painted surfaces and repair any damaged areas. Then, the surface should be cleaned with soap and water to eliminate any dirt, debris, or mould release agents. After cleaning, the surface needs to be scuffed or sanded to create a smooth base for the paint to adhere to. This can be done using sandpaper or a sanding block, paying extra attention to shiny areas. Once the surface is sanded, it should be cleaned again with a wax and grease remover and dried thoroughly. The next step is to apply an adhesion promoter, especially for flexible plastic parts, to ensure the paint adheres well and does not chip. Finally, a primer made specifically for plastic should be applied, followed by the paint itself.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Use soap and water to wash the plastic, ensuring the water is hot to dissolve water-soluble contaminants. Use a non-scratch sponge or microfiber cloth. |
| Removing Decals and Old Paint | Use a rubber eraser wheel to remove stuck-on decals. Remove old paint, especially if it is a different colour to the new paint, as this may require more coats. |
| Repairing Damage | Fill in scratches and dents with a lightweight filler or putty. |
| Scuffing/Sanding | Use a red Scotch-bright pad or sandpaper with a grit level of 360-600. Sanding paste can be used to lubricate the pad and keep the surface clean. |
| Priming | Use a primer designed for plastic, containing alcohol and glue. Hold the can 6-8 inches from the surface and spray in thin, even layers. |
| Adhesion Promoter | Use an adhesion promoter if painting flexible plastic to prevent chipping. |
| Painting | Use a spray paint designed for plastic. Hold the can 6-8 inches from the surface and spray in thin, even layers. Allow 30 minutes to an hour to dry before adding a second coat. |
| Environment | Work in a clean, dry, warm, and well-ventilated area to prevent dust and dirt from sticking to the paint and primer. |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning plastic parts
To prep plastic body parts for paint, cleaning is a crucial first step. It ensures that the paint adheres properly and that the final paint job looks professional and smooth. Here is a detailed guide on cleaning plastic parts before painting.
Firstly, if the plastic parts are already installed, it is best to remove them to avoid getting paint on other surfaces. If there are any panels or decals, remove them as well. This can be done using a rubber eraser wheel to help with stuck-on decals.
Next, clean and degrease the plastic parts. Use a non-scratch sponge or a microfiber cloth soaked in soapy water to scrub the plastic. Fill a sink or bowl with water and add dish soap, stirring until suds form. Then, rub down the entire surface of the plastic with the sponge or cloth. Rinse the plastic piece with clean water to remove any remaining soap and wipe it with a rag. Let the piece dry completely for at least an hour. You can speed up the drying process by placing the piece near a fan or in a well-ventilated area.
If there are any set-in stains that you're worried might not be covered by the paint, pour rubbing alcohol onto the stain and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes before scrubbing it away. Rinse and dry the piece again after this step.
Once the plastic part is clean and dry, you can move on to the next step, which is sanding. Sanding helps to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to, and it also smooths out any tiny imperfections. Use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding block with light to medium pressure to sand down the entire surface, especially any shiny parts, as paint struggles to stick to slick, glossy surfaces. If there are any curved surfaces or small crevices, sandpaper might be easier to use than a sanding block. Remember to wash off any dust and sand residue with water and dry the piece again before moving on to the next step, which is priming.
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Removing mould release agents
- Use Mineral Spirits and Laundry Detergent: Put on rubber gloves for protection. Fold a washcloth in half twice, creating a small square. Pour mineral spirits onto the centre of the washcloth, forming a circle of about coaster size. Sprinkle a tablespoon of powdered laundry detergent onto the wet area of the cloth. Squeeze the cloth to mix the detergent and mineral spirits. You can then use this cloth to wipe down the plastic surface, removing the mould release agent.
- Try Common Household Products: Some mild household products can effectively remove mould release agents. For example, you can use a small amount of acetone on a Q-tip for spot removal. Alternatively, you can use soapy water, warm water with dish soap, or a mixture of water and vinegar. These options are gentler on the plastic and less likely to cause damage or discolouration.
- Rinse and Dry: After removing the mould release agent, thoroughly rinse the plastic parts under running water to remove any remaining soap, detergent, or mineral spirits. Use a new washcloth or towel to dry the plastic parts completely. Ensure no excess moisture remains, as this can affect the adhesion of paint later on.
- Consider Product-Specific Cleaners: If you are working with specific types of plastic, such as resin or epo foam, you may need to use specialised cleaning solutions. For instance, some hobbyists use a product called "Mr. Tool Cleaner" to clean their airbrushes and equipment. Additionally, "Purple Power" is mentioned as a strong and environmentally unfriendly mould release agent remover. Choose your products carefully, considering their potential impact on the environment and the plastic surface.
Remember, always wear protective gear, including gloves and a respirator, when handling chemicals and cleaning agents. Additionally, test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area of the plastic first to ensure it doesn't cause discolouration or damage.
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Sanding
When sanding plastic, it is important to use light to medium pressure and work your way up through the grit levels. Start with a lower grit, such as P-800 to P-1000 sandpaper, and gradually increase to a higher grit for a smoother finish. If the plastic has curved surfaces or small crevices, using sandpaper instead of a sanding block can be more effective. You can purchase sanding blocks or sandpaper in various grits, such as 360, 400, or 600, at any home repair or crafting store.
It is crucial to pay extra attention to shiny parts of the plastic, as these areas can be more challenging for paint to adhere to. By sanding these sections thoroughly, you can create a better surface for the paint to grip onto. After sanding, be sure to wash the plastic with warm water to remove any dust or debris left by the sandpaper. This step is crucial, as any remaining residue can ruin your paint job.
For raw plastic parts, the cleaning and preparation process differs due to the chemical adhesion of the refinish coating. Plastic parts often have a mold release agent that needs to be removed before painting to avoid delamination. This process, known as "tempering," involves heating the plastic so that the mold release agent migrates to the surface and can be easily removed. It is important to refer to the technical data sheets or consult a technical representative for specific instructions.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the choice of abrasive is critical when sanding plastic. Avoid using coarse and aggressive paper, as it can be too harsh for soft plastic surfaces. Instead, opt for a grey abrasive pad with sanding paste, specifically designed for plastic scuffing. The sanding paste helps lubricate the pad, prolongs its lifespan, and assists in keeping the surface clean during the scuffing process. By scuffing the surface with sanding paste, you can prevent the plastic from accumulating a static charge.
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Applying adhesion promoter
Applying an adhesion promoter is an important step in the process of painting plastic body parts. Adhesion promoters, also known as primers, are used to improve the adhesion between the paint and the plastic surface. This step is especially crucial for flexible plastic parts, as it helps prevent chipping when the plastic bends.
Before applying the adhesion promoter, it is essential to properly prepare the plastic surface. This includes removing any previous paint, repairing damages, and sanding the surface. Sanding helps create a smooth surface by removing scratches and tiny imperfections. It also increases the surface area of the plastic, providing more areas for the paint to bond, which results in a longer-lasting paint job.
When sanding, it is recommended to use light to medium pressure and pay extra attention to shiny areas, as they tend to be more challenging for paint to adhere to. After sanding, make sure to wipe away any dust or debris with a damp cloth and allow the surface to dry completely.
Once the surface is adequately prepared, you can proceed with applying the adhesion promoter. Adhesion promoters are available in various forms, such as aerosol sprays, gallons, or quarts. It is important to follow the instructions provided with the product to ensure proper application.
When applying the adhesion promoter, use a consistent distance between the applicator and the surface, as recommended by the manufacturer. This ensures an even application across the entire surface. Similar to the previous steps, it is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area, free from excessive dust, particles, or dirt, as these contaminants can affect the quality of the finish.
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Priming
Select the Right Primer:
Choose a primer specifically designed for plastic. Most plastic primers contain alcohol and glue, allowing the paint to adhere evenly and preventing chipping or smudging. You can find plastic primers at any home improvement or craft store. Avoid shellac-based primers for plastic parts exposed to high heat, such as car parts or outdoor furniture. Instead, opt for oil-based or latex primers, especially if you plan to use oil-based or acrylic paint. If the plastic is flexible, steer clear of oil-based primers and paints as they don't accommodate movement.
Prepare the Surface:
Before priming, ensure the plastic surface is clean, smooth, and free of any contaminants. Start by washing the plastic part with soapy water and a non-scratch sponge or microfiber cloth. This step is crucial to remove any dirt, grease, or mould release agents that may interfere with the adhesion of the primer. After cleaning, let the piece dry completely. If there are any scratches or damages, fill them with a lightweight filler to create a smooth base.
Sanding:
Lightly sand the entire surface you plan to prime and paint. Use fine-grit sandpaper (360 to 600 grit) and pay extra attention to shiny areas, as paint struggles to adhere to slick surfaces. Sanding helps create a rougher surface, increasing the surface area for better paint adhesion. After sanding, wipe away any dust with a damp cloth and ensure the piece is completely dry before proceeding.
Apply the Primer:
Now, you're ready to apply the primer. Shake the primer can well and hold it about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) away from the surface. Spray the primer in thin, even layers, ensuring complete coverage. During this step, it's important to wear a mask to protect yourself from the primer's chemicals. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step, which is usually the application of paint.
Additional Tips:
- Work in a well-ventilated area to ensure proper drying and avoid inhaling fumes.
- Choose a warm and dry workspace to promote optimal paint drying.
- Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines when working with primers and paints.
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Frequently asked questions
First, remove the plastic part from the vehicle. Then, clean the part with soap and water, removing any mould release agents, and dry it. Next, sand the part, ensuring it is as smooth as possible. After this, apply a primer. Finally, spray the part with thin, even layers of paint, holding the can 6-8 inches from the surface.
You should use a spray paint that is specifically designed for use on plastic. If you can't find this, a multipurpose spray paint will also work.
You should use a primer that is specifically designed for use on plastic. Most plastic primers contain alcohol and glue, ensuring that the paint will stick without chipping or smudging.
You should use light to medium pressure to sand down the entire surface. If the plastic has shiny parts, sand these down a little extra, as paint will have a harder time sticking to a slick, glossy surface. If the plastic has a curved surface or small crevices, it may be easier to use sandpaper instead of a sanding block.
First, scrub the plastic with soapy water and a sponge. Then, rinse the plastic with warm water to remove any dirt or debris left by the sandpaper.
