Is Spray Paint Safe for Plastic Models?

Latex, acrylic, and oil-based paints can be used to paint various plastic surfaces. You will get more durable, glossy, and smoother-looking finishes with oil-based paint. Spray paints sold in hobby stores are specially designed for plastic models, with a “cool” chemical composition that is safe for delicate plastic parts. Paints sold in auto-parts and hardware stores, on the other hand, are quite the opposite. The majority of these quick-drying paints contain “hot” solvents that can harm plastic. To use one of these hot paints on plastic, a primer barrier between the paint and the plastic is required.

What are the benefits of using spray paint on plastic?

using spray paint on plastic

1. It does not fade easily.

One of the advantages of spray paint for plastic is that it does not fade easily, making it ideal for outdoor furniture. As a result, your plastic will look as good as new in almost any weather condition.

2. Availability and speed

When compared to using a regular paint and roller, spray painting is much faster. Spray painting also allows you to cover areas that are too small for rollers or brushes. As a result, you will be able to complete a full painting job.

Furthermore, it has been observed that when painting awkward areas such as a plastic table corner, you will have a difficult time due to its shape. As a result, you are more likely to leave marks on the paint. All of this is avoided when you use spray paint on plastic.

3. Finishing

There is a chance that you will be disappointed once you have finished painting with the roller. The reason for this is that rollers do not produce a smooth and nice finish.

On the other hand, with plastic spray paint, you will get an even coating, which everyone will appreciate.

4. Usability

Another reason you should choose spray paint over other types of paint is that it is much easier to use.

Spray Paints Bottle types

5. Colors

Plastic spray paints come in a variety of colors. As a result, the appearance of an old faded toy can be easily restored, or the plastic car part can be completely painted. So, no matter what kind of project you’re working on, spray paint for plastic can get the job done.

spray paint on plastic

What Model Kit Paint Should I Use?

Acrylic paint will be used to paint the majority of your models. Acrylic-based paints that can be sprayed, brushed on, and brushed off can be used with paint markers. This type of paint can also be painted in a variety of finishes and sheens, such as glossy and flat. Acrylics are water-based paints that typically wash away. Acrylic modeling paint is the go-to choice for nearly every model enthusiast. It is also the most popular paint for beginners. The reason for this is that they are the easiest to work with, dry quickly, and can be easily thinned by mixing with water. Acrylic paints do not have a strong odor, making them ideal for use in poorly ventilated areas or around children.

Enamels are oil-based paints that have been around for a long time and are a more traditional option. When compared to acrylics, enamels provide better color coverage and a smoother finish. These paints can be heavily manipulated even after they have dried, making them quite unique. As a disadvantage, because of their pliability, they do not dry as quickly as acrylics and have a slightly strong odor. The odor/smell is caused by the turpentine base, but it is still a popular option.

spray cans

Lacquer paints are solvent-based paints that are typically available in spray cans. Bottle types are also available and in high demand, particularly for airbrushing. Lacquer, also known as ‘acrylic lacquers,’ should not be confused with acrylic water-based paints. The term “acrylic” refers to the color pigmentation rather than the properties of the paint.

The Top 4 Spray Paints

1. Spray Paint from Krylon

This is the first item we’ve included on our list of the best spray paint for plastic. This spray paint checks all of the boxes, earning it a high rating. Furthermore, it is capable of providing a protective coating on any type of surface, including plastic. As a result, it is capable of producing excellent results.

Furthermore, with its long-lasting gloss coating, it can withstand any kind of condition without showing any signs of aging or peeling. If you’re looking for a spray paint that is resistant to moisture and smudge-proof, this is the product for you.

2. Rust-Oleum Spray Paint

Rust-Oleum has developed a wide variety of spray paint products over the years, one of which is Rust-Oleum 327864. It is possibly the most consistent spray paint available on the market.

Furthermore, it is suitable for both exterior and interior use, so you can use it on virtually any surface, including plastic, wood, wicker, meter, plastic, ceramic, and so on.

Spray Paint

3. Colorbond Plastic Refinisher Spray Paint 1970 BMW

The following item on our list is from Color Bond, a well-known and dependable brand. This company has a solid reputation for providing high-quality painting solutions with a smooth, long-lasting finish. This paint can be sprayed on a variety of materials, including leather, vinyl, and plastic. When painted on vinyl, the supple feel will be preserved.

It is specially designed to match the finishes on a variety of exterior components. This spray paint contains 12 ounces of paint per bottle. When sprayed on the material, it forms a deep molecular bond that permanently seals the color. This results in a paint finish that does not crack, peel, or flake.

4. Spray Paint in Two Colors

Dupli-Color has been producing high-quality automotive paints for over 60 years. As a result, you can expect each of its products to be of high quality. Dupli-Color Trim and Bumper paints feature Fade-X technology, providing a long-lasting finish for both interior and exterior applications.

Bumper and trim surfaces can be restored to their factory appearance using the following speciality formulation. Furthermore, spray paint produces a uniform solid color and has a dry to touch time of only 30 minutes. You would also be able to complete the task in under an hour.