Maya Ellison
Acrylic paint is a versatile medium that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including plastic. However, getting acrylic paint to adhere to plastic can be challenging due to its smooth and non-porous surface. With the right preparation and techniques, it is possible to successfully paint plastic items with acrylics. In this article, we will explore the steps and considerations for using acrylic paint on plastic, including choosing the right type of paint, preparing the surface, applying the paint, and sealing the finished work. We will also discuss the types of plastics that are not suitable for painting and provide tips for a successful and long-lasting paint job.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic items that can be painted | Kids' toys, picnic sets, flower pots, storage containers, garbage bins, outdoor furniture, plastic chairs, figurines, containers, décor items |
| Plastic items that cannot be painted | Polypropylene, plastic/laminate floors, bathtubs/shower stalls, counters |
| Paint types that stick to plastic | Acrylic spray paint, enamel spray paint, primer spray paint |
| Paint types that do not stick to plastic | Craft paint that comes in bottles and tubes |
| Sealant types | Spray, liquid |
| Sealant brands | Aleene's acrylic sealer |
| Primer types | Spray, liquid |
| Primer brands | Rust-Oleum, Vallejo Surface Primer |
| Paint application methods | Brush, sponge, spray |
| Paint layering | Thin, even layers; avoid thick layers |
| Paint drying time | 2 hours minimum; some brands require 6-12 hours |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the plastic surface
Cleaning
First, ensure the plastic surface is clean and free of any contaminants. Use a scrub brush to remove any loose paint, dirt, mildew, or algae. For items with heavy mildew, multiple washings and heavy scrubbing may be necessary. After scrubbing, rinse the surface with cool, clean water to remove any remaining soap suds. An important final step is to wipe down the surface with mineral spirits or isopropyl alcohol to remove any fine plastic dust produced by the previous steps.
Sanding
As plastic is typically smooth and non-porous, sanding the surface is essential to create texture and help the paint adhere. Use fine-grit sandpaper to roughen the surface without leaving visible sanding marks. Thoroughly sand the plastic until it has a matte finish. If the item has been previously painted, sand and remove any dried drips or drops.
Priming
After cleaning and sanding, apply a plastic-specific primer designed for use with acrylic paint. Primers come in spray or liquid form and should be applied in thin, even layers following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to painting.
Masking
If there are sections of the item you do not want to paint, use painter's tape to block them off. This will help create clean, crisp lines and protect the areas you want to keep paint-free.
Work Area Preparation
Set up your work area in a well-ventilated space, especially if using spray paint or mineral spirits. Work on a protected surface, such as old cardboard, to avoid paint smearing. Ensure the room has proper ventilation and is free from children and pets. Wear a face mask and protective eyewear to safeguard against paint fumes and vapors.
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Using a primer
Acrylic paint will not adhere well to smooth surfaces such as plastic. To ensure the paint adheres properly, the surface should be free of grease and dust and slightly absorbent. If the surface is too absorbent, use an acrylic binder before adding gesso. If it's not absorbent enough, you can just use gesso. Gesso will provide you with an absorbent surface after drying, which makes it the perfect base for acrylic paint.
Before applying primer to a plastic surface, you will need to prepare the surface by cleaning and sanding it. You can then apply the primer, following the directions on the bottle. Make sure to coat the entire surface in thin, even layers. Allow the primer to dry completely. Before you begin painting, you can test the compatibility of the primer and paint by scratching the surface of the plastic item with a kitchen knife and placing a piece of tape over the scratch mark. Smooth it down, then pull it off. If the primer and paint are compatible, no paint will come off.
There are spray and liquid primer options available. Spray primers are available from brands such as Rust-Oleum and Krylon, which are easy to use and suitable for beginners. Vallejo Surface Primer is a 200ml bottle of grey primer that you can brush on or apply with an airbrush, making it ideal for model kits or priming small plastic items.
After applying the primer, you can then apply your acrylic paint. Remember to allow each layer of paint to dry completely before applying the next layer. Avoid applying one thick layer. If you are using a brush, ensure you paint each layer in equal thickness. Once the paint has dried, you can finish the job by sealing it with a clear sealant, protecting it from bumps and scratches. Sealants are available in spray or liquid form and should be applied once the paint is completely dry.
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Applying the paint
Before applying the paint, it is important to prepare the plastic surface. This includes cleaning the item with mild dish soap and warm water to remove any surface dirt and oils that may prevent the paint from sticking. Once the item is clean and dry, lightly buff the surface with 220 to 300-grit sandpaper in a circular motion to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. If there are any sections of the item that you do not want to paint, cover them with masking or painter's tape. It is also important to ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area, especially if using spray paint, and to wear a face mask and protective eyewear.
When choosing a paint, look for one that is specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Acrylic spray paint works well for larger surface areas, while acrylic paint in bottles or tubes is better suited for smaller objects or adding fine details. Krylon's COLORmaxx range is a popular option that offers 75 different colours and an elegant satin finish. Shake the paint can well before applying the first coat.
The best way to apply the paint is to use thin, even layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. This helps ensure that the paint adheres properly and reduces the risk of chipping or peeling later on. If using a brush, ensure that each layer is of equal thickness. For spray paint, hold the can 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 centimetres) away from the surface and apply the paint in a sweeping motion. Alternate the direction of each layer (side-to-side, top-to-bottom, etc.) for better coverage. Most types of paint will take around 15 to 20 minutes to dry between layers, but thicker applications may take up to 6 to 12 hours.
After your final coat, let the paint dry for at least 24 hours. Once the paint is completely dry, you can add any additional designs or details as desired.
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Sealing the paint
Before applying the sealant, make sure that the paint is completely dry. If you are using a spray sealer, stand a few paces away from the item and use the same technique as when you were painting, applying thin, even layers. Spray sealers are said to be easier to use and only require a single coat. If you are using a liquid sealer, you will need to apply two coats with a brush. For outdoor items or items exposed to harsh conditions, consider adding an extra layer of protection.
There are different types of sealants available, each providing a specific finish. You can choose between a matte, glossy, or regular finish, depending on your desired outcome. Sealants with a clear coat will protect the colour of your paint job.
If you are using a sealant on a plastic surface, there are a few extra steps to take. Since plastic surfaces are smooth, it is recommended to use fine-grit sandpaper to add slight roughness, which will help the sealant and paint adhere better. Sand the plastic in a circle or straight line using 120 to 220 grit sandpaper to level the surface. Then, remove the sanded dust with a blower, vacuum cleaner, or cloth. You can also use a decoupage medium, which is a flexible white glue that works well on plastic surfaces.
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Drying time
Acrylic paint is known for its quick-drying properties. The drying time, however, depends on various factors, including humidity, temperature, thickness of layers, and the type of paint. For instance, Galeria Acrylic thin films of colour dry in 10 to 20 minutes, while thicker films can take an hour or more. Professional Acrylic thin films dry in 20 to 30 minutes, and thicker films can take an hour or two.
It is recommended to let each layer of paint dry completely before applying the next layer. This is because acrylic paint dries quite fast, and you need to act quickly if you want to work alla prima, also known as direct painting or wet-on-wet. You can buy yourself some extra time by using a slow-drying medium or acrylic retarder, which can delay the drying time by a maximum of 20%.
If you are using a spray sealer, it is best to wait until the paint is completely dry, and then use the same technique as you did with the paint for an even, smooth surface. Liquid sealers that require a brush often take two layers, while a single coat of spray sealer is usually enough. For outdoor items, you may want to add an extra layer for protection from the elements.
When using a primer, it is important to let it dry 100% before applying the paint. Primer and paint should be applied in thin, even layers to ensure proper adhesion. Some craft paints may require up to 6 to 12 hours to dry fully, so it is best to check the specific instructions on the paint you are using.
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Frequently asked questions
No, not without preparation. Plastic is smooth and non-porous, so paint does not adhere easily. To make acrylic paint stick to plastic, you need to prepare the surface by lightly sanding it, applying a base coat or primer, and then applying the paint in thin, even layers.
First, clean the plastic with mild dish soap and warm water, then dry it off. Next, lightly sand the plastic with 220 to 300-grit sandpaper, using a circular motion to avoid scratches. After sanding, wipe the surface with rubbing alcohol to remove any oils that might prevent the paint from sticking. Finally, apply a coat of primer, preferably one that is designed for use with plastic and acrylic paint.
The best way to apply acrylic paint to plastic is to use thin, even layers of paint, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next one. Spray paint is often the easiest and fastest option, but for smaller objects or detailed work, bottled acrylics with a paintbrush may be more suitable.
Sealing is not necessary, but it will provide more permanent and durable results, especially for items that will be exposed to harsh conditions. Sealants come in spray or liquid form and offer varying finishes, including glossy, matte, and satin. Apply the sealer once the paint has dried thoroughly, and use the same technique you used to apply the paint for an even, smooth surface.
Almost any plastic item can be painted with acrylics, including furniture, flower pots, toys, containers, and decor items. However, plastic/laminate floors, bathtubs/shower stalls, and counters are not suitable for painting. Additionally, plastic items made of polypropylene, usually marked with a 2, 4, or 5 inside a triangle recycling logo, cannot be painted.
