Is spray paint OK on plastic?
Most general-purpose spray paints work on plastic, but care must be taken to prepare the surface before painting. For the sake of convenience, you may wish to use a spray paint labeled as being specifically meant for plastics, like Krylon Fusion for Plastic or Rust-Oleum Specialty Plastic Primer Spray.
No primer is required. These sprays are ideal for use on polypropylene, polystyrene, resin, PVC, fiberglass, and vinyl plastics such as chairs, tables, and planters. TIP: Some plastics made of polyethylene such as plastic storage containers are manufactured in a way that may hinder maximum paint adhesion.
Liquid Rubber is the perfect all-rounder for waterproofing applications. It can be used as waterproof paint for plastic materials such as PVC. Liquid Rubber has many different uses and is a cost-effective and proven system to use for DIY or commercial applications.
Do you need to prime plastic before painting? It depends. If you're using a spray paint for plastic then you can skip the priming step. But if you're using regular old spray paint (which isn't recommended, but we get that sometimes it's just what you have), then definitely use a plastic primer spray first.
Krylon Premium Metallic Spray Paint
With a sheen that resembles real metal plating, the paint excellently adheres and covers plastic, along with many other materials, including wood, paper, ceramic, glass, wicker, metal, and plaster. It dries to the touch in just 15 minutes and is ready to be handled in an hour or so.
Spray plastic with a plastic primer and allow to dry. Spray the plastic with spray paint specially formulated for plastic. Use light even strokes when spraying. Allow to dry completely between coats.
- Clean project surface. For old plastic, use an ammonia-based cleaner on surface. ...
- Lightly sand surface if previously painted.
- Remove dust with a tack cloth.
- Let plastic surface dry.
- Apply Krylon® Fusion for Plastic® spray paint according to the directions on the spray can label.
- Start by wiping down the plastic surface with mineral spirits or rubbing alcohol. ...
- Using a fine-grit sanding block, lightly sand the surface to a dull finish. ...
- Apply the plastic primer according to the directions on the back of the can. ...
- Apply the spray paint according to the directions on the can.
Silicone sealant for plastic can be an option, as well. It is also waterproof and highly resistant to weather, including extreme hot and cold temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor as well as indoor applications.
However, acrylic paint on plastic is the best option and for this, you will need to prime the plastic item. Two coats of primer will be sufficient. Primer is available in spray cans and is very easy to apply.
How do you waterproof plastic?
Plumber's putty is a flexible, white material that retains its softness even when dry. It adheres well to porous surfaces, including plastic and fiberglass. The substance is useful for creating a waterproof seal between plastic and metal, including in shower drains and bathroom sinks.
Rustoleum Painter's Touch Ultra Cover claims to bond to plastic. In my experience, while this product does work on plastic, it's definitely not as durable as Krylon Fusion. This product can be used on a variety of surfaces in addition to plastic like, wicker, metal, wood etc.

Many plastic items have a glossy coating over the top. Before spraying, this will need to be slightly removed to enable both the primer and paint to stick to the surface. Using a fine-grit sanding block and gentle pressure, start to sand down the plastic to remove the gloss and create a texture to stick to.
Most plastics generally present problems when trying to paint directly onto them. That's why you'll often need a plastic primer: a clear product that serves as a base layer that you can effectively paint afterwards.
New Unprimed Parts. Painting new unprimed plastic first requires a thorough cleaning of the part: soap and water washing, removing mold release agents, chemical cleaning and inspection are all parts of the pre-sanding cleaning. The part must be sanded and cleaned, then anti-static and/or adhesion promoter is applied.
Apply a second coat.
Most items will benefit from at least two coats of spray paint. When the first coat has had time to dry, apply a second coat. Use the same side to side or up and down sweeping motion as you spray to ensure a thin and even coat.
This product provides maximum rust protection for all outdoor projects and offers a broad color palette with multiple finishes and sheens for indoors and out. Fusion All-In-One® 3.8 out of 5 stars.
Yes, you can paint metal and plastic outdoor furniture using Krylon® spray paint products.
Krylon® Protective Label Spray is a permanent, waterproof, protective coating that is perfect for chemical storeroom shelf clips and bottle labels. Spraying Krylon® helps prevent clip corrosion and label smudging and destruction.
- Lightly sanding the surface.
- Wipe off any sanding dust.
- Apply several light coats of spray paint that's made for painting plastic.
- Paint accent colors by applying spray paint to a paper plate, then using an artist's brush to paint the contrasting colors by hand.
Is latex or acrylic paint better for outdoor use?
Acrylics are more durable and will better adhere to both indoor and outdoor surfaces than your latex paints will. They are easy to apply to porous surfaces making them a wonderful option for wood and other furniture renewal.
“Acrylic paint lasts the longest and is also known for resisting all sorts of damage caused by weather and other natural variables. Acrylic paint is also excellent for resisting fading or damage caused by exposure to the sun, making it perfect for homes located in hot regions or climates.”
Most items will benefit from at least two coats of spray paint. When the first coat has had time to dry, apply a second coat. Use the same side to side or up and down sweeping motion as you spray to ensure a thin and even coat.
You may need to wash more than once. After washing completely rinse with clean water to ensure no soap remains on the plastic. Most plastic is glossy so sanding it is necessary to help the paint adhere to the surface. Use the #180 to #100 fine sandpaper or sanding sponge to gently sand the surface.
Oil-based paints have been a standard for outdoor painting projects for hundreds of years. They stand up to the elements, cover more thoroughly with one coat, go on smoothly, and hold up to high-traffic areas.
The good news is, acrylic paint is one of the best paints for water resistance. It is very durable and fast drying. For this reason acrylic paint is used on walls, wood, canvas and most other surfaces, even those that are going to be outside.
Standard exterior gloss paint is a suitable finish for plastic when used in conjunction with an appropriate primer and undercoat. Either acrylic or oil-based gloss can be used, and both are available in a wide range of colours. Typical application methods include brush, roller and spray.