How to Apply Paint on Fiberglass

Fiberglass' multipurpose usefulness extends from household appliances to automobile paneling, from your everyday kitchen apparatus to complex medical equipment. Applying paint to fiberglass is not difficult, but it does require special materials. Prepping the surface of a fiberglass item will help your project go smoothly. Acrylic paint and a primer will produce the best results.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber gloves
• Soap
• Dry cloth
• 120-grit sandpaper
• Acrylic paint
• Primer
• Paintbrush
• Hair dryer

Instructions

1. Scrub the surface area with soap and water to eliminate any dirt and oils. Dry with a clean cloth.

2. Smooth the surface area with 120-grit sandpaper.

3. Apply the primer.

4. Apply a thin coat of paint on the surface, following the grain of the surface. Brush in one direction only. Use blow dryer to dry the paint quickly, if desired.

5. Paint the surface with a thin second coat. This time, you may apply paint in two strokes only; upward and downward strokes or left to right. Always follow the grain of the surface area.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint fiberglass outside, if possible, for proper ventilation.

• Paints and primers are volatile materials. Avoid painting near an open flame.

References

• YouTube: Bondo: Working With Fiberglass Mat & Resin
• Ask the Builder: Painting Fiberglass Doors & Finishing Tips
• Yacht Survey: Tips for Painting Fiberglass Boats