The Best Paints for Plastic (Review & Buying Guide)

The Rust-Oleum Specialty Plastic Paint uses a special oil-based formulation, which does not require using a primer prior to applying it, allowing it to restore or renew your item in a convenient single step. The formulation also makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Each can contains 11 ounces of paint and will cover approximately 10 square feet. Not only can it be used to bring old plastic items back to life, but it also offers additional protection on your newly purchased and often heavily sun-bleached items like plastic mailboxes, lawn chairs, and tables. The downside is that it is only available in black. You can use this paint on anything from metal to plastic, making it highly versatile.

Though you can use this paint for outdoor applications, it becomes more susceptible to damage in those settings. If possible, keep the work in a dry spot without too much sun exposure.

If you are looking for a paint that can adhere to plastic fibers, the Dupli-Color Aerosol Spray Paint is a good way to go. It comes in an 11-ounce container that forces the paint outwards using pressurized air. Thanks to the fine nozzle, you can still get a high level of precision. It also helps to prevent missing the mark while you’re working. The paint comes pre-primed, meaning you don’t have to put down a base coat. You can get it in many different color options and either as a single can or in a six-pack. Each of the paints is easy to mix and dries fairly efficiently. To be safe, it’s best to leave it untouched for the full hour. It creates a bold hue that stands out well and resists damage.

Though this option works well on most surfaces, it is primarily designed for textiles and vinyl. That said, it adheres well to plastic and is ideal for polyester painting.

For those times when you need to craft a decal onto a plastic surface, the Ch Haicheng Acrylic Paint Markers give you the accuracy you need. These markers are filled with paint. The set comes with a dozen markers, each of a different color ranging from black to silver, gold to orange, you can easily create powerful imagery.  Since there is no spraying or pouring, you can easily create fine lines through the two-millimeter tip. The flow is unrestricted and the end result prevents issues related to flaking and cracking. You can use these paint markers on all types of plastic. They dry quickly, thanks to the limited flow while remaining bright and energetic. Provided you cap the markers after use and shake them when it’s time to work, you get efficient arts and crafts products.

Bear in mind that these markers only work for details. Larger-scale projects would require a more substantial supply of paint, so stick to the small stuff.

Looking to finesse that project that’s kept you up late in the garage? The Individuall Premium Acrylic Paint Set is an optimal way to achieve that goal. The acrylic formula creates a firm hold on plastic surfaces. Since you can use it on other materials as well, it saves you from having to find matching colors in different sets. The eight different tones mix well for customized looks. All of the chemicals are safe to use despite being heavy-duty. Given the amount of paint included, you get a sufficient supply to handle pretty much any small or medium-scale project. You can use these paints indoors and outside without worrying about ventilation needs. Quick to dry and not prone to cracks, these are a popular plastic painting option.

The only drawback is the limited supply of each color. If you need to cover a large area in one hue, it can be tricky, though for brightness and energy this is an ideal selection.

The Smartt Color Art Acrylic Paint Markers are a preferable choice for those looking to take decor to a new level. Since the paint inside the markers attaches well to plastic, there is no worry about priming or lasting effects. Once it dries, the paint doesn’t chip or crack easily. Instead, it leaves behind a smooth finish that highlights the artwork itself. The set comes with 18 markers, each of a different tone. All the tips are less than a centimeter wide and won’t fray or tear. Offering a fluid motion that prevents streaks and lines, these paint markers are very easy to use. The grip is effective and comfortable, designed to keep you in control. The paint isn’t toxic and free of harmful chemicals. It is safe to use regardless of whether children or pets are nearby.

While these markers are handy for artistic applications, they create thin lines that can take a lot of work when filling in the outline. Set aside a few moments to ensure you can get through the project in a timely fashion.

For times when aesthetics are on the back burner and it’s all about function, Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant is a favorable choice. The paint is designed to be entirely waterproof and holds tightly to all types of surfaces. You can use it on plastic, a useful feature if there is a protrusion near a hinged seam. The can of paint comes with enough supply for multiple projects. When it dries, the paint is see-through, letting you go over the top for an added dash of color. Free of VOCs and dangerous additives, there is no need for extra attention to ventilation. This paint is tough, despite being safe. Resistant to ultraviolet rays, water, and abrasion, it is a powerful coat to keep your plastic items safe.

Though this paint is very useful, it isn’t an aesthetic tool. Working instead to coat your items and keep water and debris out, it is a plastic paint that can actively improve the quality of your possessions.