Painting plastic (resin) garden gnomes -

[hedgehog]

I have a bunch with the paint peeling on them. Has anyone here used those paints that are supposed to be good for exterior plastics? What kind of prep is required? Would it look too weird if I painted the entire gnome one color, like a dark green or brown?

[valerief]

1. I wouldn't worry about making a garden gnome look weird. They're weird-looking already. nt

[LaydeeBug]

2. You will notice plastic specific paint at the store

and maybe an art supply store could steer you in the right direction about the appearance?

It might look cool...

[Adsos Letter]

3. There are primers designed specifically for your situation.

They are usually water-based acrylics with exceptional adhesion.

Surface prep is usually a simple cleaning (make sure to get any detergent residue thoroughly rinsed off) and a very light scuff sanding with something like 220 sandpaper. With some primer products simply a good cleaning is enough.

Edited to add: on plastic a product like one of the water-based etching solutions is better than sanding. I'm thinking of JASCO's "Paint Etch" product, but there are others.

[Kolesar]

4. Krylon® Fusion for Plastic

http://www.krylon.com/safety/surface-preparation/

When working with plastic
For old plastic, use an ammonia-based cleaner and wipe down to clean surface. If the plastic is new, wipe down with paint thinner for best results. Lightly sand glossy surface if previously painted and remove dust with a tack cloth. When dry, apply Krylon® Fusion for Plastic according to the directions on the can.
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I paint one gallon juice bottles with Krylon® Fusion, fill them with water and put them in the garden. I have a few that are three years old and have all the paint still on them.

[hedgehog]

5. Thanks everyone for the advice!

[MADem]

7. I am a huge fan of garden gnomes in all their iterations!

Post pics of your masterpieces after you finish with them!!!!