How to Spray Paint Plastic Chairs

Are you tired of looking at those faded and worn-out plastic chairs in your backyard? Maybe you’ve tried cleaning them up, but they still look dull and lifeless. It’s frustrating, isn’t it? You want to spruce up your outdoor space, but those chairs just keep bringing the whole aesthetic down.

Well, fear not! There is a simple solution that will give those chairs new life and make your backyard the envy of all your neighbors. The answer is… spray painting! Yes, you read that right – with just a few easy steps, you can transform those dingy plastic chairs into beautiful and vibrant pieces of furniture.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But I’ve never spray painted anything before! Won’t it be difficult?” That’s where I come in. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of spray painting plastic chairs from start to finish. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll feel confident enough to take on this project and turn those eyesores into eye-catching pieces of decor.

Materials Needed for Spray Painting Plastic Chairs

Spray painting plastic chairs is an easy and cost-effective way to update the look of your outdoor furniture. Before you get started, make sure you have all the materials necessary to complete the project. Here are the essential items that you will need:

Spray Paint:

Choose a high-quality spray paint specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Make sure to choose a color that complements your outdoor decor.

Cleaner:

Before beginning the painting process, ensure that the surface is clean and free of any dust or debris. Use a mild cleaner and a soft cloth to wipe down the chairs thoroughly.

Primer:

While some spray paints claim to work without primer, it’s always best to prime plastic surfaces before painting them. This will ensure better adherence and durability of the paint.

Sandpaper:

Use sandpaper with fine grit so as not to damage the plastic surface. Lightly sanding before painting can improve paint adhesion.

Masking Tape:

Apply masking tape around areas you don’t want to be painted (such as legs or armrests) before starting your project.

A Well-Ventilated Area:

Spray paint releases fumes, which can be harmful if inhaled over long periods. Therefore, work in an area with good ventilation or outdoors when weather permits.

Preparing Plastic Chairs for Spray Painting: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparation is vital when it comes to spray painting plastic chairs. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Clean Your Chairs:

Clean your chairs thoroughly using warm water and mild detergent mixture with a soft cloth until they’re free of dirt and debris. Rinse them off with water afterward and let the chairs dry completely before painting.

Sand Your Chairs:

Lightly sand the surface of your chairs with fine-grit sandpaper to provide a rougher surface for the paint to adhere to. Wipe down any dust from sanding with a soft cloth.

Masking Tape:

Use masking tape to cover any areas that you don’t want to be painted, such as legs or armrests.

Prime Your Chairs:

Apply a thin coat of primer on the chairs using long, sweeping strokes. Allow it to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help ensure better adherence and durability of the spray paint.

Spray Paint Your Chairs:

Once your primer is fully dried, start applying your spray paint in light, even coats with sweeping motions. Avoid spraying too close or too long in one area as it can lead to drips or uneven coverage. Apply several thin coats until you get the desired finish.

Choosing the Best Paint for Your Plastic Chairs

When choosing spray paint for plastic chairs, there are some important factors you should consider:

Type of Spray Paint:

Choose a spray paint specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Such paints are formulated with adhesion promoters that allow them to bond better with plastics and resist chipping, peeling, and fading over time.

Color Selection:

Choose a color that complements your outdoor decor or complements other furniture pieces in your garden.

Brand Quality:

Choose a high-quality brand that offers good coverage and durability while resisting fading over time. Consider doing some research by reading reviews online before making a purchase decision.

Spray Painting Tips: How to Apply Evenly and Avoid Drips

Here are some tips for achieving an even and drip-free finish when spray painting plastic chairs:

Apply Thin Coats:

Spray in light, even coats, holding the can around 8-10 inches away from the surface. Avoid spraying too close or for too long in one area, as it can cause drips.

Keep Moving:

Move your hand continuously while spraying to ensure that the paint is applied evenly and doesn’t pool in one area.

Work in a Dust-Free Environment:

Painting outdoors on a windy day or in an area with dust, pollen, or debris can lead to unwanted bumps on your chairs’ surface. Therefore, work indoors or in a clean environment.

Do You Need a Primer Before Spray Painting Plastic Chairs?

Yes, it’s always best practice to use primer before spray painting plastic chairs. Primers are formulated with adhesion promoters that bond better with plastics than regular spray paints. Additionally, primers help create an ideal surface for paint adhesion and durability.

When using primer for your plastic chairs, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Apply thin coats of primer and allow each coat to dry completely before applying additional coats.

How Long Should You Wait Between Coats of Spray Paint on Plastic Chairs?

It’s essential to wait until each coat of spray paint has dried entirely before applying another coat. The drying time will depend on various factors such as temperature and humidity levels.

As a general rule of thumb, wait at least 15-30 minutes between each coat of spray paint on plastic surfaces. However, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific drying times.

To Seal or Not to Seal? Clear Coat or Varnish for Painted Plastic Chairs

Sealing painted plastic chairs is not necessary but can help protect the paint from fading over time. There are two types of sealants that you can use:

Clear Coat:

Clear coat spray paint is a transparent coating that can be applied over painted surfaces to protect them. Clear coats come in matte, satin, and glossy finishes.

Varnish:

Varnish is a clear coating material that can be brushed onto painted surfaces to protect them from the elements.

When using these products, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.

When Can You Use Your Newly Painted Plastic Chairs?

Wait at least 24 hours before using your newly painted plastic chairs. This will give the paint enough time to dry completely and cure properly. Avoid placing any objects on the chairs or sitting on them during this period.

After 24 hours, you can use your newly painted chairs as usual. However, avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold for long periods of time, as this can cause cracking or fading over time.

In conclusion, by following a few simple steps and using the right materials, spray painting plastic chairs can be an easy and cost-effective way to give them a fresh new look.

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Spray Paint Plastic Chairs

Will spray paint stick to plastic chairs?
It is possible to rejuvenate and add some color to your outdoor living area by spray painting plastic chairs.

What kind of spray paint to use on plastic chairs?
There is a recommendation to use XIM’s Plastic & Vinyl Bonding Primer or a spray that is specifically designed to stick to plastic, followed by a durable topcoat like Rust-Oleum in a spray can for outdoor furniture. This advice was given on February 8, 2021.

What is the best spray paint for spraying plastic?
Krylon Fusion All-In-One Spray Paint is the top choice for painting plastic surfaces due to its versatility and quick-drying feature. This spray can handle a variety of surfaces, such as PVC, and is effective in covering the tough-to-paint plastic surfaces.

What is the best way to paint plastic chairs?
To prepare the furniture for painting with latex paint, apply a complete layer of a primer designed for use with it. This will help the paint stick to the furniture. Since plastic doesn’t hold paint as well as other materials, an adhesion primer is crucial to ensure that the top coat lasts. For indoor use, use 100% acrylic latex paint.

Can you use Rust-Oleum on plastic chairs?
These sprays are designed to be used on a variety of plastic materials including polypropylene, polystyrene, resin, PVC, fiberglass, and vinyl. They are particularly useful for painting items such as chairs, tables, and planters. However, it is important to note that some plastic storage containers made from polyethylene may not allow for maximum paint adhesion.

Does spray paint for plastic really work?
Ordinary spray paints are ineffective on plastic surfaces, but now there are specialized paints designed specifically for this application. These paints not only cling to the plastic, but they also create an extremely durable bond with the surface. Krylon Fusion for Plastic and Rust-Oleum 2x are two well-known brands that offer this type of paint.