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The Kitchen Table

Craft (Painting) question!

9 years ago

I'm a real crafter (all kinds) and always try to use what I have 'on hand'. :)

I bought one of those kid's spring-type jumping horses and want to paint it like a carousel horse. :O) I'm thinking I'll start by priming the (plastic) horse with Zinsser 1-2-3 Primer... Do I really need to rough up the surface first? Spilled primer always sticks permanently to anything I drip it on! lol!

I want a dark/black horse and have tons of java gel stain, so I'm wondering if I could use that over the primer? If not, what about my tons of black chalkboard paint? :)

Otherwise, do you think that acrylic (water-based) craft paints can be used successfully on both the primer and either the gel stain or latex paint top coat?

If none of my ideas will work, can anyone tell me what *will* work? :)

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Comments (4)

marie_ndcal
9 years ago
If you don't get an answer here, contact the companies of the paints you hope to use. I did and Folk Arts was very nice to respond with the answer for me. Your painting magazines have information who to contact with these types of questions also.
Good luck
Marie
kayjones
9 years ago
Go to Walmart and buy a 5'x7' blue tarp for your projects. I spread it on the table or floor and proceed to do my project. All the drips, splatters and spills go on the tarp, which can then be hosed off. Your projects won't stick to the tarp, and if you are afraid it might stick, spray the tarp area with a bit of WD40 - then it won't.
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alisande
9 years ago
My favorite painting drop cloths are comforters from the Salvation Army. Super cheap, and thick enough so paint won't soak through. Crib sizes are good for small projects.

I'm thinking the paint I used to use for glass would work for plastic. As I recall, it was said to be suitable for all surfaces. Could end up being pricey, though, as it came in little bottles.
ravencajun Zone 8b TX
9 years ago
I think I personally would go with the primer, that is a good primer and then just use the acrylic craft paints. very dry between coats.

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