How to Paint Black Plastic

Painting plastic used to be a job that was almost guaranteed to need redoing quickly. Old plastic paints, even the best ones, tended to flake and peel off when exposed to the elements. Newer paints for plastic bond permanently. This does not mean the paint won't show wear over time, but with the right surface preparation and painting technique, the paint will eventually wear off, rather than peeling off.

Spray paint for plastic
Primer
Household detergent with ammonia
Bucket
Scrub brush
Plastic sponge
Old towels

Instructions

- 1
  
  A scrub brush makes cleaning easier
  
  Prepare the surface of the black plastic. Wash the black plastic with a household detergent with ammonia. Use ½ cup of detergent per gallon of warm water. Use a rubber sponge or scrub brush, making sure to clean in all the cracks and hard to reach places. The surface should be free of grease, mold, dirt or any other contaminant for paint to adhere. If the plastic is new, thoroughly wipe it down with paint thinner to prepare the surface. Previously painted furniture may require light sanding and then dust removal.
- 2
  
  Dry with a towel
  
  Dry the black plastic thoroughly with an old towel. If there is time, air-dry for about an hour.
- 3
  
  Using primer provides a more professional looking result
  
  Lay out a drop cloth to avoid over-spray. Apply a primer. Begin and end the spray pattern off the piece you are painting. Spray in an even, side to side motion, overlapping slightly with each stroke. Apply a light coat of paint. Primer bonds with the surface of the plastic and provides a smoother, more professional looking finish. Read package instructions for dry time. Follow specific instructions on applying paint on top of primer, especially the suggested cure time.
- 4
  
  The results of good painting technique can be very pleasing
  
  Apply the paint. Using the same technique as used to apply the primer, thoroughly cover the black plastic with the paint. Allow the paint to dry completely and assess. If you are satisfied, allow to dry for several days. Some plastic paints are chip-proof after a drying time of seven days. Apply another coat if needed.

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