How to paint a plastic bumper with spray cans

This time I have come up with the solution to paint a plastic bumper with spray cans with this step-by-step guide.

You guys who were afraid to do this job by themselves will be able to achieve satisfactory results.

Amateurs are requested to follow each step explained in this guide of mine in order to get a perfect finish from their car bumper.

If you’re looking to save a few bucks and have ordered a new bumper but need to paint it, hey-don’t fret! It’s very possible to do the job all on your own in just two days.

Check out how to coat that shiny new bumper yourself with this handy guide.

All you really need is a primer, paint of your color choice, spray cans of clear coat, painter’s tape, cloth, plenty of soapy water, and a nicely lit location for optimum comfort.

You’ll obviously have many obstacles to overcome when trying to figure out how to paint the bumper cover.

But in the long run, it might be worth a try as it may very well change your life by making you rich.

There are dozens of reasons why you should attempt to do so. The truth is there are all sorts of approaches that might help you in achieving this goal.

However, we just want to make sure that you don’t get discouraged.

Painting your car’s bumper is one way to give it a makeover! First, remove the bumper and wash it thoroughly.

Then apply some plastic primer to any scratches or cracks you’ll find in your bumper.

Next, coat the bumper with several layers of base coat, letting each layer dry before moving on to the next.

Finally, add a couple of coats of clear coat for extra durability and a shiny finish, then wait 6 hours before putting it back on or driving your car around.

How to paint a plastic bumper with spray cans?

Tools you need to paint plastic bumper

These are some tools that you need in order to paint your plastic car bumpers with spray paint cans to achieve a perfect finish after completing your work. Below is the list:

• Painter’s Tape or masking tape for protection of surface from paint
• Primer is also needed
• Paint Cans for the painting process
• Clear-Coat for protection of paint
• Bucket for water storage
• Soapy Water for cleaning purposes
• Sponge for cleaning surface
• Compressed Air or a Towel for cleaning tight spots
• Mask for protection of face
• Gloves for protection of hands
• Work Stands for a better position to paint

Steps to paint plastic bumper

Pick a warm sunny day or pick a garage that’s well-ventilated. Either way, you’re going to find yourself in a situation where you have to wait for your paint and bumper to dry.

Here are some tips on making the most out of this situation:

Remove the bumper if you want to

When repairing a bumper that is particularly rusty, you’ll want to remove it from the car body. However, many plastic bumpers can be difficult to paint because of their high gloss finish.

In some cases it may be best left attached to its metal body – this also ensures that during the painting process you don’t accidentally miss any spots or stray over onto other areas.

Warm the bumper

On a warm sunny day, if you don’t have a paint booth installed in the shop, fix your bumper outside.

Pick a day without strong winds: dust and pollen could linger on the bumper and attach to freshly-painted areas. Watch out for mosquitos, as some defend themselves by attaching to painted surfaces.

We suggest letting your bumper warm up in the sun for about ½ hour to 1 hour. The best place to let it sit is outdoors, on a stand so that the heat can truly penetrate all of its surfaces.

Sand the surface if needed

In wet sanding a bumper cover, 600 grit sandpaper is used as this allows for the smoothest even finish. Follow this step by hand in order to feel for any rough patches and smooth them out.

To continue always have a constant layer of water between the sandpaper and bumper cover you are working on by spraying the area constantly.

This will assure that the entire slithered surface is achieved without fail. Instead of sandpaper, you could use a pad, as long as its grain is not too large or too small and if needed be backed up with a sanding block.

To maintain constant contact pressure while maintaining a flat sheet angle over the work surface when lowering it onto the vehicle body.

Wash the bumper

It’s pretty safe to say that over time your car is likely to accumulate a significant amount of dirt and grime on its bumpers.

Even the most attentive car owners will have to deal with this problem sooner or later since bumper covers are one of the most exposed parts of your vehicle.

Luckily, cleaning your bumper cover doesn’t require much extensive effort. All you really need is the right product – in this case, an all-purpose degreaser like kitchen soap.

You’ll want to use a sponge, dishcloth, or even paint brush to work the soapy mixture into every crevice while washing gently taking care not to harm or scratch any surfaces along the way.

Washing the bumper cover is best done when you’re washing your car. Start by mixing a solution using water and dish soap so that the bumper cover won’t get damaged.

Then, let it soak in the soapy water while you wash and scrub down any dirt or stains. When you are done scrubbing, rinse off all of the soap thoroughly.

Dry the bumper

After using the towel to dry off the bumper, it’s ok to use compressed air (using a can of air) to help.

Squeeze out more water/dirt/dust. do this in short bursts so that you don’t blow everything around.

Inspect the bumper

Scuff that bumper. To scuff the section of the bumper, use a scuff pad which you can usually find in a tool kit for cars, and lightly go over the surface of the bumper until there is no shine left on it.

Inspect and tape off parts of the bumper that shouldn’t be painted like lights or sections containing vital components.

Remove the dirt

When you’ve finished cleaning the rest of your car don’t forget to wipe down your bumper! If you have some tack cloth, this would be a great time to use it.

First, just pat the bumper down with the cloth so that if there are dirt or dust particles still on it any paintwork on the bumper won’t touch them of course, and will remain clean.

Prime the surface of the bumper

Spray Primer onto the Bumper. If a plastic bumper requires priming, we recommend putting plastic adhesive promoter primer on it.

Shake up the can, follow the directions, wear a mask, and spray primer onto the bumper. The resulting product will look clear.

Hold up to 10 inches to a foot away while spraying. In our example, we applied 3 coats of primer.

Spraying one coat every three minutes and letting the primer dry for 10 minutes before applying paint.

Start spraying bumper

Once your primer is dry and has set for 10 minutes, you’re ready to paint the bumper.

I suggest preheating the cans of paint in a bucket of warm water so they’re already nice and warm when you go to use them.

Paint areas that are likely to get splashed frequently with your second coat – the edges of any tape and slots on the bumper, for example – first.

Don’t overload your brush with paint or it’s liable to drip, which will make a mess later on!

Use long sweeping motions to apply a thin coat all over the bumper with one sweep before pulling off to wait for 10 minutes for it to dry.

Apply a clear coat after painting

After you’ve put on the base coat, you can protect it further with 2 or more layers of clear coat.

Hold the aerosol about 12 inches (30 cm) from the bumper and spray the clear coat in a light, sweeping motion to apply just 1 layer of clear coat.

Let this layer dry for 20 minutes. After this first pass, apply a second layer of clear coat and let it dry as well.

Each time new clear coats are applied, overlap the previous one by 50% for the best coverage

Let the paint dry and remove the tape

After the paint is dry, you should let the bumper sit for 24 hours. If the paint does not appear to be glossy, sprinkle some extra Invisible Dust over the whole surface.

Wait for another 30 minutes and then remove the painter’s tape. And then attach the bumper back to its surface if you removed it before starting the process.

Can I spray paint my plastic bumper?

Yes, you can spray paint a plastic bumper, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best results.

First, it’s important to clean the bumper thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or other contaminants.

A mild detergent and water should do the trick, but you can also use a specialized plastic cleaner if you prefer.

Once the bumper is clean, it’s a good idea to lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper to help the paint adhere better.

Next, you’ll need to use a plastic primer specifically formulated for use on plastic surfaces.

This will help the paint to stick to the plastic and prevent it from peeling or chipping. You can use paint specifically formulated for plastic surfaces as well.

Finally, you can use spray paint that is designed for plastics, or regular spray paint as long as you use a plastic primer.

Be sure to apply the paint in thin, even coats, and allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next.

It’s also worth mentioning that, if you have the plastic bumper removed from the vehicle, you can work in a well-ventilated area, or use a mask and gloves.

Spray paint fumes can be quite harmful if inhaled.

Keep in mind that the result won’t be as durable as a factory paint job and plastic paint doesn’t resist very well in high heat.

How many spray cans do I need to paint a bumper?

The number of spray cans you will need to paint a bumper will depend on the size of the bumper and the type of paint you are using.

As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to use at least 2-3 cans of spray paint to cover a standard-sized bumper.

This assumes that you are using standard-sized cans (about 12 oz) and that you are applying the paint in thin, even coats.

If the bumper is particularly large or if the paint is particularly thick, you may need to use more cans.

It’s also important to consider the coverage rate of the paint you are using.

Some paints have a higher coverage rate than others, so you may be able to cover the bumper with fewer cans of paint.

It’s a good idea to check the product label or consult the manufacturer’s specifications to get a better idea of how much paint you will need for your project.

Keep in mind that the number of cans of primer, you may need will depend on the same factors (size, coverage rate).

It’s always better to have a little extra paint on hand, rather than run out in the middle of a project.

Do you need to primer plastic bumper before painting?

It’s generally a good idea to prime a plastic bumper before painting it.

Primer is used to create a surface that paint can adhere to more effectively, and it can also help to hide any imperfections in the plastic surface.

When priming a plastic bumper, it’s important to use a primer that is designed specifically for plastic surfaces.

These types of primers will typically contain chemicals that will help to etch the surface of the plastic, creating a rough surface that paint can adhere to more effectively.

It is also important to use a primer that is UV resistant to avoid the paint from discoloration.

It’s also important to make sure that the bumper is clean and free of any dirt or debris before you begin priming it.

You can use a plastic cleaner or a mild detergent to clean the bumper and then rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any residue.

When applying the primer, it’s best to use a high-quality synthetic bristle brush or a spray can, and to apply it in thin, even coats.

Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next one. Depending on the primer you’re using, you may need to apply 2-3 coats to achieve the desired level of coverage.

It is also good to keep in mind that plastic may have different types of properties from metal or wood etc.

Hence it may have different application process, and drying times and the coating process may not be the same as other surface types.

How do you prep a plastic bumper for spraying?

Prepping a plastic bumper for spraying involves several steps to ensure that the paint adheres properly and the final result is smooth and durable.

Here are the general steps you can take to prepare a plastic bumper for spraying:

• Clean the bumper: Start by cleaning the bumper thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or other debris. Use a plastic cleaner or a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge to wash the bumper, and then rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any residue.
• Sand the bumper: Use fine-grit sandpaper (220-320) to lightly sand the bumper. This will help to roughen the surface of the plastic and create a surface that the primer and paint can adhere to more effectively. Be careful not to sand too much, as you don’t want to remove too much material or create uneven surfaces.
• Clean the bumper again: After sanding the bumper, clean it again to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated during the sanding process.
• Mask off areas that you don’t want to paint: Use masking tape and paper to cover areas of the bumper that you don’t want to paint, such as trim or emblems. Make sure to press the tape down firmly to prevent paint from seeping under it.
• Apply a plastic primer: Apply a plastic primer specifically designed for plastic surfaces. Use a synthetic bristle brush or spray can and apply it in thin, even coats. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly before applying the next coat. Depending on the primer you’re using, you may need to apply 2-3 coats to achieve the desired level of coverage.
• Sand the primer: Once the primer is dry, use fine-grit sandpaper (320-400) to lightly sand the surface. This will help to create a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to.
• Clean the bumper one more time: Clean the bumper one more time to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated during the sanding process.
• Apply the paint: Apply the paint in thin, even coats, using a spray gun or a can. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the recommended nozzle size and pressure. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly between coats, and apply as many coats as needed to achieve the desired level of coverage.

By following these steps, you’ll have properly prepped your plastic bumper for spraying. And have a better chance of the paint adhering properly and having a smooth and durable finish.

Can you spray paint plastic bumpers?

Yes, you can spray paint plastic bumpers! Spray painting is a quick and easy way to give your plastic bumper a new look without breaking the bank.

However, it’s important to prepare the surface properly to ensure the paint adheres well and lasts as long as possible.

This includes cleaning the bumper thoroughly and sanding it to create a rough surface for the paint to stick to.

Choosing the right spray paint for plastic is also crucial. Look for paints that are designed specifically for plastic surfaces and that offer good adhesion and durability.

With the right prep work and paint, you can achieve a professional-looking finish on your plastic bumper.

How many spray cans does it take to paint a front bumper?

The number of spray cans needed to paint a front bumper can vary depending on the size of the bumper, the type of paint used, and the number of coats applied.

In general, one can of spray paint can cover approximately 8-10 square feet, but it’s always a good idea to buy extra to ensure you have enough paint to complete the job.

For a front bumper, you may need 2-3 cans of spray paint to ensure good coverage and a consistent finish.

It’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific paint you are using and to do a test spray on a small, inconspicuous area before starting the job to ensure the color and finish are what you are looking for.

Do you need primer for plastic bumper?

Yes, it’s important to use a primer when painting a plastic bumper.

The primer helps to create a smooth and even surface for the paint to adhere to, and it also helps to improve the durability of the paint job.

Plastic bumpers are made of materials that can be difficult for paint to stick to, so using a primer specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces can make a big difference in the quality and longevity of the finished paint job.

Before applying the primer, be sure to clean and sand the surface of the bumper to create a rough surface for the primer to adhere to.

This will help to ensure that the primer and paint will adhere well and last as long as possible.

How Many Cans of Spray Paint Do You Need for a Plastic Bumper?

The number of cans of spray paint you need for a plastic bumper can vary depending on a few factors, such as the size of the bumper, the type of paint you’re using, and how many coats you plan to apply.

In general, one can of spray paint can cover approximately 8-10 square feet, but it’s always best to purchase a little extra just to be safe.

For a small plastic bumper, you may only need one or two cans of spray paint, but for larger bumpers, you may need three or four cans.

It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific paint you’re using and to do a test spray on a small, inconspicuous area before starting the job to ensure you achieve the desired color and finish. Remember, it’s always better to have too much paint than not enough!

How to Spray Paint a Plastic Bumper Without Removing It?

Spray painting a plastic bumper without removing it can be a bit tricky, but it is possible with some careful preparation and patience. Here are the general steps to follow:

• Clean the bumper: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the surface of the bumper with soap and water to remove any dirt, grime, or debris. Allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
• Sand the surface: Sand the surface of the bumper with a fine-grit sandpaper to create a rough surface that the paint can adhere to. Be careful not to sand too aggressively or you could damage the bumper.
• Mask off surrounding areas: Use painter’s tape and plastic sheeting to mask off any surrounding areas you don’t want to get paint on, such as the car’s body or nearby trim pieces.
• Apply primer: Apply a plastic primer specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces to the bumper. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.
• Apply paint: Once the primer is dry, apply the spray paint in light, even coats, making sure to overlap each pass slightly. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. Plan on applying at least two to three coats to achieve good coverage and a consistent finish.
• Allow to dry and cure: Once you’re satisfied with the coverage and finish, allow the paint to dry and cure completely before handling or driving the car. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying time, which is usually at least 24 hours.

By following these steps, you can achieve a professional-looking finish on your plastic bumper without having to remove it from the car.

Just remember to be patient and take your time to ensure you achieve the best results possible.

How to Blend Spray Paint on a Plastic Bumper?

Blending spray paint on a plastic bumper is a technique used to ensure that the color of the newly painted bumper matches the rest of the car.

Here’s how you can blend spray paint on a plastic bumper:

1. Clean the bumper: Thoroughly clean the plastic bumper with soap and water to remove any dirt or grime. Allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
2. Sand the surface: Use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface of the bumper to create a rough surface that the paint can adhere to. Be careful not to sand too aggressively or you could damage the bumper.
3. Mask off surrounding areas: Use painter’s tape and plastic sheeting to mask off any surrounding areas you don’t want to get paint on, such as the car’s body or nearby trim pieces.
4. Apply primer: Apply a plastic primer specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces to the bumper. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.
5. Apply basecoat: Apply the basecoat color of paint to the bumper. Be sure to apply light, even coats, and overlap each pass slightly. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.
6. Apply clear coat: Once the basecoat is dry, apply a clear coat over the entire bumper. This will help to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish.
7. Blend the paint: After the clear coat has dried, use a spray bottle filled with water to mist the area where the old paint meets the new paint. Then, use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper to gently blend the two areas together. Be careful not to sand too aggressively or you could damage the new paint.
8. Buff and polish: Finally, use a buffing compound and a polishing pad to buff the entire bumper, blending the new paint into the old paint and creating a smooth, seamless finish.

How to Prevent Spray Paint from Running on a Plastic Bumper?

Spray painting a plastic bumper can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the process.

One common issue people encounter is the paint running or dripping, which can ruin the finish of the bumper. Here are some tips to help prevent spray paint from running on a plastic bumper:

• Clean and prep the surface: Make sure the surface of the plastic bumper is clean and dry before painting. Any dirt, dust, or debris can cause the paint to run.
• Use light coats: Apply light, even coats of paint, rather than trying to apply a thick coat all at once. This will help to prevent the paint from running or dripping.
• Hold the can upright: Hold the spray can at a 90-degree angle to the surface you’re painting. This will help to prevent the paint from running or dripping.
• Keep a steady hand: Move the spray can back and forth in a smooth, steady motion. Don’t hold the can in one place for too long, as this can cause the paint to pool and run.
• Use a fan: If possible, use a fan to help dry the paint between coats. This will help to prevent the paint from running or dripping.
• Avoid painting in humid conditions: High humidity can cause the paint to dry too slowly, which can increase the likelihood of runs or drips. Try to paint in a dry, well-ventilated area.

How to Protect Spray Paint on a Plastic Bumper?

After you’ve taken the time to properly prep and spray paint your plastic bumper, you want to make sure that the finish stays looking great for as long as possible.

Here are some tips on how to protect spray paint on a plastic bumper:

1. Allow the paint to dry completely: Before exposing the painted bumper to any potential hazards, make sure the paint has fully cured. Depending on the type of paint you used, this can take anywhere from a few hours to several days.
2. Apply a clear coat: Once the paint has dried, you can apply a clear coat to help protect the finish. Clear coat sprays are available at most auto parts stores and are easy to apply. Simply follow the instructions on the can and apply a thin, even coat.
3. Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents on the painted surface of the bumper. This can cause the paint to fade or even strip away completely.
4. Wash the bumper regularly: Regular washing with a mild soap and water can help keep the painted surface clean and free from dirt and grime. Avoid using abrasive sponges or brushes that could scratch the paint.
5. Park in a garage or shaded area: Direct sunlight can cause the paint to fade over time. If possible, park your car in a garage or shaded area to protect the paint.

By following these simple tips, you can help protect the spray paint on your plastic bumper and keep it looking great for years to come.

FAQ’s of How to paint a plastic bumper with spray cans

Conclusion on How to paint a plastic bumper with spray cans

The complete step-by-step guide for painting plastic car bumpers with spray paint cans is for people.

Who are newcomers in this painting field and were confused to do this paint job by themselves but didn’t know the complete process.

But here is a complete guide written from my own experience which is quite long and should be considered.

Still, if you guys find anything which seems to be complicated then just let me know in the comments section and I will clear it out with a satisfactory answer.

Follow each step explained in this guide in order to achieve the best results and a perfectly shiny finish.