Plastic surfaces are harder to paint than other surfaces because their chemical composition makes it difficult for paint to adhere to them. This has led to the development of paints made specifically for plastic. Choosing the best paint for plastic can be quite difficult. Listed below are some tips on what to look for when choosing paint for plastic.

Kinds of Paint for Plastic

Solvent-based paint

Solvent-based paints such as those based on oil or shellac have better bonding characteristics than water-based ones. There are many kinds of solvent-based paints. Some may need primers before application while others may not. Solvent-based paints, however, are more toxic and more difficult to use than water-based ones. When using these, it is advisable to work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves and goggles.

Primer

More often than not, a good cleaning and light sanding can make paint stick to plastic surfaces. If they don’t, then you may want to try applying primers. Primers are usually needed for paint to adhere to plastic because it can create a bond between the two. Usually, when primers have been applied to the plastic and left to dry, any kind of paint can be painted over it. However, this does not always show good results.

Brands of Paint for Plastic

Fusion®

Fusion, a spray paint that can stick to any kind of plastic, was invented by a company called Krylon®. Unlike other types of plastic paint, no priming or sanding is required when you use this brand of paint. In fact, the only preparation you need to do is to clean the plastic and make sure that it is dull and dry. Kylon® Fusion® can even resist chipping and fading when exposed outdoors. The finish is high-gloss and durable, and the paint is fast drying. In fact, it only takes 15 minutes to dry and around a week to cure. It also has a special nozzle, which makes it more comfortable for you to spray with. Furthermore, it is available in many different colors and textures, and is safe for both children and the environment. Fusion® is probably the best paint for plastic surfaces available.

Valspar®

Another brand of spray paint that can be used directly on plastic is Valspar®. Like Fusion®, the use of primer before painting is unnecessary. It is also fast drying, chip resistant and in the same price range as Fusion®. However, according to reviews, the paint doesn’t spray on evenly and it tends to drip. The nozzles are also quite hard on the fingers, as they require more pressure than the nozzle of Fusion.

Rust-Oleum®.

Rust-Oleum® is another brand of spray paint for plastic that is easy to work with. Like Fusion, its spray cans have special nozzles that make it easier for you to paint with. The nozzles are also adjustable so the paint can stick to surfaces that are hard to reach or paint. The paint isn’t as consistent as that of Fusion®’s ,but it is more consistent than Valspar®. It was also thick enough to prevent itself from dripping. Although no primer is needed before applying this product, it is best to apply new surfaces with paint thinner before applying. Rust-Oleum® is also fast drying, chip-resistant, and in the same price range as Fusion® and Valspar®.

Painting plastic is usually more tedious than painting other kinds of furniture. However, advances in technology have brought many conveniences to the process. Paints and primers made specifically for plastic have become much more popular over the years. Therefore it can be a bit confusing to choose which among them is the best paint for plastic. Trying out different kinds of paint and brands is one way of choosing, but it can get expensive. Use this review and others around the Internet to save some money before buying. Good Luck!

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