What Paint Will Stick on a Plastic Bucket?

Several types of paint will stick to a plastic bucket.

Some surfaces, such as plastic, are inherently tricky to paint. A plain bucket can be transformed with paint for a planter or craft project--but you need to use paint that will stick to the plastic. Paint technology has come a long way in recent years, and with some basic surface preparation, there are several types of paint that can be sprayed, brushed or even stenciled on a plastic bucket.

Solvent-based Paint

Water-based paint will not stick well to a plastic bucket. Use paint that has much better bonding capabilities, such as oil- or shellac-based paint. Some of these paints require a primer, but others can be painted directly on the plastic.

There are several brands of spray paint designed just for painting plastic. They don't need any primer. Automotive supply stores have a wide variety of colors and finishes (including metallic and leather-look) that will stick to a plastic bucket as well as sticking to a plastic front bumper or dash board.

Primer

Oil- and shellac-based primers can be painted over with acrylic (water-based) paint, because the primer creates a bond between the plastic and the paint. Some water-based bonding primers may also work on a plastic bucket. Apply the primer to the plastic bucket and let it dry as directed. For decorative painting, it's OK to use a spray primer, then apply acrylic paint with a brush.

Preparation

No paint will adhere well to dirty, oily or very shiny plastic. Scrub the bucket with detergent and water if it's grimy. If it is still quite new and clean, wipe it down with denatured alcohol to remove surface oils. An alternative is one of the "liquid sandpaper" products on the market, which both clean and dull glossy surfaces. For the best results, use fine sandpaper (180- to 220-grit) or a sanding sponge to dull the plastic surface.

Considerations

Consider the use and exposure the bucket will get. If it will be an indoor decorative piece, it's fine to use inexpensive interior paint. Use oil- or solvent-based paint (either brushed on or from a spray can) if you want the bucket to hold up to use and abuse. Paint it with exterior paint if it's going to be outside, otherwise even the most carefully-painted bucket will start peeling and fading. Acrylic artist's paint works fine over primed plastic for indoor use; for outdoor buckets, use exterior 100 percent acrylic house paint.

Warning

Solvent-based paints are more difficult to use than water-based paints, and potentially more toxic to both the user and the environment. In fact, even water-based paints have some harmful ingredients such as ammonia and preservatives to prevent mold, according to Princeton University. Paint in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves and eye protection while working.

References

• Utah State University Cooperative Extension: Selecting Paint
• Princeton University: Art Safety Training Guide
• Paint Quality Institute: Painting Plastic