Painting plastic chairs, especially outdoor furniture, can be tricky because plastic doesn’t naturally hold paint well. Exposure to sunlight, rain, and daily use can quickly cause paint to peel, crack, or fade if the wrong products or techniques are used. In this guide, we’ll show you how to prepare, prime, and paint your plastic chairs using both spray paint and acrylic paint, ensuring a smooth, durable, and long-lasting finish for indoor or outdoor use.
How to Paint Plastic Chairs
Painting plastic chairs, especially outdoor garden furniture, can be tricky. That’s because plastic doesn’t naturally hold paint well. These chairs are exposed to friction when you sit on them and constantly endure harsh outdoor conditions such as sun, rain, and temperature changes. As a result, using the wrong type of paint or skipping key preparation steps can lead to peeling, cracking, or fading paint in a short time.
Since outdoor plastic chairs flex slightly when you sit down, it’s important to choose a paint that’s flexible and won’t crack with movement. Avoid using oil-based or epoxy paints, which are too rigid for plastic surfaces. Instead, opt for paints that are designed to bond with plastic and handle mild flexing — such as all-purpose acrylic paint or spray paints designed for plastic. Here are the details:
What Are the Best Paints for Plastic Chairs?
- Spray Paint: Spray paint is a convenient choice for painting plastic lawn chairs quickly and evenly. However, the cost can add up — especially when applying multiple coats. Since you’ll likely need two coats for good coverage, plan on using at least six 12-ounce spray cans for four chairs. If you also apply a spray primer and a protective spray sealer, that number could easily exceed ten cans. Make sure to choose a spray paint labeled “for plastic” or “multi-surface,” and pair it with a compatible plastic bonding primer and UV-resistant spray sealer for best results.
- All-Purpose Acrylic Paint: Brushing on all-purpose acrylic paint takes more time than spraying, but it’s often a more affordable and durable solution. For a small project like painting four plastic outdoor chairs, one quart (approximately 0.95 liters) of all-purpose acrylic paint is usually sufficient. This type of paint adheres well to plastic when used with a latex or acrylic primer, which helps the paint bond properly and resist peeling. If you’re covering a dark-colored chair with a light paint color, you may need a bit more for full coverage. Be patient between coats — letting each layer dry completely will help the paint last longer on your plastic chairs without peeling or cracking.
1-Painting Plastic Chairs with Spray Paint
Start by washing the chairs thoroughly using warm water and soap or a mild detergent. Dirt, grease, and grime can prevent paint and primer from sticking properly, so make sure the chairs are completely clean and dry before moving on.
Once the chairs are clean and dry, set them on a drop cloth or in an open area where overspray won’t be an issue. Wear a mask and safety goggles for protection.
Next, priming is an essential step. Because paint doesn’t naturally adhere well to plastic, using a primer designed for plastic surfaces ensures better adhesion and a longer-lasting finish. Apply a thin, even coat of plastic primer and allow it to dry completely before painting.
After priming, apply a light, even coat of spray paint from 8–12 inches away. Give the paint at least 30 minutes to dry before moving on to the next coat. This helps build a smoother, longer-lasting finish on plastic chairs.
Inspect the first coat for drips or uneven areas. If needed, gently sand the surface with 200-grit sandpaper and wipe away the dust with a clean cloth. Follow up with a second light coat, and allow it to fully dry to ensure even coverage and better durability. After about 30 minutes, finish the project with a spray sealer to protect the paint from scratches and UV damage. Related post: How to remove spray paint from plastic.”
2-Painting Plastic Chairs with Acrylic Paint
Whether using spray paint or acrylic paint, applying a primer first is essential for long-lasting results. Use a latex, acrylic, or any water-based primer suitable for plastic surfaces. Brush on a thin, even coat and give it a minimum of 3 hours to dry completely before adding another layer to your plastic chairs.
Once the primer is dry, use a soft-bristled brush to apply a thin layer of all-purpose acrylic paint to the chair. Make sure to paint evenly and avoid overloading the brush. Allow the first coat at least 3 hours to dry fully so the paint bonds well to the plastic surface.
After the first coat is completely dry, apply a second coat for better coverage and richer color. Let the chairs dry for a full 24 hours before use to ensure the paint cures properly, resulting in a durable, long-lasting finish. If you plan to apply a protective topcoat, choose a water-based clear varnish and wait a full day before applying it. “Related post: How to remove acrylic paint from plastic.”
Final Tips
- Before painting plastic chairs, always verify that the paint and primer are intended for plastic surfaces to ensure optimal adhesion and durability. Using the wrong type of product can lead to poor adhesion and peeling.
- Avoid painting plastic chairs in high humidity or low temperatures, as extreme weather conditions can interfere with drying times and finish quality.
- Whether you’re spraying or brushing, use long, even strokes to get a smooth and streak-free look on your plastic patio chairs or garden furniture.
- To extend the life of your newly painted plastic chairs, finish with a UV-resistant clear sealer — especially if the chairs will stay outdoors year-round.
