How to Paint Duck Decoys
Painting a duck decoy takes patience to paint the details on the decoy and allow the paint to cure. Allow at least three weeks for the entire process. If you rush your work, you will end up repainting the decoy.
Things You'll Need
- Foam or plastic decoy
- Degreaser
- Scrap cloth
- Plastic scrubbing pad (3M Scotch Brite or similar) or 60 grit sandpaper
- Wire brush
- Paint - high-quality flat exterior latex paint (Behr Premium Plus or similar) and Krylon matte finish 1311
Instructions
-
-
1
Clean your foam or plastic decoy with a scrap cloth and degreaser such as Simple Green. If you are repainting a foam or plastic decoy, use a wire scrubber to loosen any paint or dirt before cleaning.
-
2
Take a plastic scrubbing pad or 60 grit sandpaper and scuff the decoy. This will help the paint to adhere to the decoy.
-
-
3
Select a paint pattern for your decoy. Takeem.com or duckhuntingchat.com offer instructions on how to paint a variety of ducks. Also, Anthony Hillman, at the website Hillmanart.com, has written many books on how to accurately paint duck decoys that include detailed instructions on how to paint different types of ducks.
-
4
Paint your decoy using a high-quality exterior latex paint. Wait at least two weeks for the paint to cure before applying the finish.
-
5
Apply two or three coats of Krylon Matte Finish 1311. This will add a nice sheen to your decoy and protect it from the elements. Do not skip applying the finish or the new paint job will be vulnerable to water damage.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Remember to hold the decoy by the keel to prevent the oil on your hands from contaminating the surface.
If you are painting your decoy because the manufacturer's paint is failing, there is probably a mold problem under the paint. Wipe the decoy with acetone to remove the old paint, being careful to follow the directions on the acetone completely.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit bufflehead duck decoy image by Julianna Olah from Fotolia.com
