Does Chrome Spray Paint Work On Plastic? (4 Step Process)

Are you looking for a way to add a touch of chrome to your plastic car parts? If so, you may be wondering if chrome spray paint works on plastic.

The short answer is yes, chrome spray paint can be used on plastic if you select a spray chrome spray paint designed for plastic surfaces, properly prepare the plastic surface before painting, and apply enough even coats of spray paint to achieve a great finish.

In this article, we will discuss how to properly apply chrome spray paint to plastic so that you can achieve a high-quality, long-lasting finish.

Does chrome spray paint work on plastic?

Chrome spray paint can be used on plastic, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to get the best results. First, choosing a chrome spray paint specifically designed for use on plastic is important.

Some chrome spray paints are made for metal surfaces. If you try to apply these spray paints on plastic, you will likely have a poor finish.

If you pick the right type of chrome spray paint and follow the process outlined below, you should have no problem getting a great chrome finish on plastic that will last for years.

Also read: Is Spray Painting Rims A Good Idea?

How to apply chrome spray paint on plastic (Step by step)

Now that we know that chrome spray paint can be used on plastic, let’s discuss how to properly apply it. The process is quite simple and only requires a few supplies you likely already have around the house.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chrome spray paint specifically designed for plastic
• Plastic primer (optional but recommended)
• Sandpaper (optional but recommended)
• Clean, dry cloths
• Safety gloves, goggles, and a mask

Once you have gathered all the necessary supplies, you are ready to begin prepping your plastic surface for chrome spray paint.

1. Clean the plastic surface

The first step is to clean the plastic surface you will paint. Removing any dirt, dust, grease, or other contaminants that could prevent the chrome spray paint from adhering properly is important.

You can use a mild soap and water solution to clean the surface or purchase a commercial plastic cleaner from your local hardware store.

Once the surface is clean, you will need to allow it to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

2. Sand the plastic surface if required

If your plastic surface is very smooth, then you can skip this step. However, if your plastic surface has any texture or is not perfectly smooth, then you will want to sand it down before you begin spray painting.

Sanding your plastic surface with fine-grit sandpaper immersed in water will help create a smooth base for the spray paint to adhere to, resulting in a better overall finish.

When sanding plastic, gently rub the sandpaper in a circular motion until the entire surface has been evenly sanded. Once you have finished sanding, use a clean, dry cloth to remove any dust that has been created.

Note: Immersed the fine-grit sandpaper in water for a few minutes before use. This will help to sand the plastic surface without scratches.

3. Apply a plastic primer (optional)

If you use chrome spray paint specifically designed for plastic, you can skip this step. However, we still recommend applying a plastic primer before spray painting.

A plastic primer will help to create a better overall bond between the chrome spray paint and the plastic surface. This will result in a more durable and longer lasting finish.

If you decide to apply a plastic primer, then make sure to follow the instructions on the primer can for best results. In most cases, you will simply need to apply a few thin layers of primer to the plastic surface and then allow it to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Note: It is important to buy the same primer and spray paint brand to avoid compatibility issues.

Once the plastic primer has dried, you are now ready to apply the chrome spray paint.

4. Apply the chrome spray paint

Start by shaking the can of chrome spray paint for a minute or two to evenly mix the contents. Once the contents have been mixed, you can begin applying it to the plastic surface.

It is important to use even and consistent strokes when painting with chrome spray paint. We also recommend applying a few thin layers of spray paint rather than one thick layer. Allowing each layer of spray paint to dry completely before applying the next one is also very important to achieve the best results.

Once you have applied the desired number of layers of chrome spray paint (4 to 5 coats are enough), you will need to allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step. Depending on the brand and type of spray paint that you are using, this can take anywhere from a few hours to a day or two.

Keep in mind that while chrome spray paint can provide a durable and long-lasting finish, it is not as resistant to scratches and wear and tear as other finishes.

Also read: Does spray paint expire?

Conclusion

Chrome spray paint can work on plastic, but it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure that the spray paint adheres properly and that the finish is durable and long-lasting.

If you are looking for a quick and easy way to give your plastic surfaces a chrome finish, then chrome spray paint is a great option. Just make sure to follow the steps outlined above for best results.

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