What Products to Use to Prep Plastic Prior to Painting

What Products to Use to Prep Plastic Prior to Painting

One problem with painted plastic objects is that the more they are used, the more they fade and chip off. Repainting these plastics can be difficult due to its smooth exterior. The paint may peel off even when you apply several layers. Unlike other surfaces such as wood, plastic is not absorbent, making it difficult for the paint to stick. However, there are certain products you can use and steps you can take to prepare your plastic for painting. Note that the painting of plastic requires specific products different from other materials. Here are some tips on prepping plastic before painting.

Cleaning the Item

Use soap, water, and a soft cloth in order to remove the surface dirt and create a clean surface. Lather the soap on the cloth or sponge, then wash the object. Do this to eliminate any particles that cause bumps for your paint to be applied evenly. It is important to use warm water to dissolve soluble chemical impurities. Once this is done, wash out the object to remove the lather, and let it dry.

Roughening the Surface

Rubbing sandpaper on the object enhances the surface’s grit, enabling paint to stick firmly on it. Sanding is necessary because the plastic is shiny and smooth, making it difficult for the paint to latch. Use fine sandpaper all around the object until the surface has a coarse texture. The next step is to remove the particles caused by the sanding. Still using water and a sponge, wash off the surface until all the particles are eliminated. Not doing this will cause unwanted bumps when applying the paint.

Masking Off

You need painters’ tape for this task. In case there are parts of the plastic that you do not want to paint, the tape will seal them off. Similarly, if you want to create clean lines, especially if you are using different paints, the tape will create that distinction. The different coats will not overlap, and the lines will be clean as long as you remove them carefully after each coat.

Priming

A coat of primer is the foundation necessary prior to painting. Not only is it the first layer before any painting is done, but it also gives the paint a surface to latch on. Cover your working area with a cloth or paper so that the primer does not spread everywhere. A paintbrush or an airbrush works perfectly for this task. Once the object dries, you can start painting.

Conclusion

Using the right products and following the right steps make it easier to paint your plastic. Whether you are repainting or painting for the first time, these tips will come in handy. Your furniture, equipment, or toys will have that perfect shiny exterior that you need. Ensure that your working area is well ventilated when spraying the primer. Lastly, let each coat dry first before you apply the next one.