Summary: In this article we are going to share with you the steps needed to repaint your plastic or foam duck decoys, including paint colors. You can also use this information to simply touch up your used duck decoys.
Through trial and error we learned how we could repaint our decoys without the hassle of having to order a decoy paint kit and instead found durable acrylic paints that could be conveniently bought from Wal-Mart and Home Depot. In addition, we discovered a product that protected our newly painted decoys and added years of life to the paint once applied and it even gives our decoys a natural sheen.
For the best paint adhesion and durability proper surface preparation is essential when painting plastic, foam, or cork duck decoys. Below is a step-by-step process for each type of decoy.
Thoroughly scrub the decoy with a wire brush. The individual wires do a really good job in removing loose paint and dirt in the texture molded into the plastic. Your goal in this step is to remove any loose paint or dirt, not remove all the paint. Next scrub the decoy with brush and a good cleaner that does not leave a residue behind such as Simple Green and rinse with water thoroughly. If you are repainting duck decoys because the factory paint simply didn't stick that's a red flag. Most likely the surface of the plastic is contaminated with a mold release agent. In this case I would recommend using acetone to clean the surface. Be sure to follow all instructions on the acetone container!
When painting new foam decoys it is very important that the release agent used on the decoy mold is removed from the finished decoy body. Scrub the decoy with brush and a good cleaner that does not leave a residue behind such as Simple Green or similiar degreaser and rinse with water thoroughly. Next I would scuff the surface using a 3M Scotch Brite pad as a rougher surface will promote paint adhesion. On my two part foam decoys I have made I will use 60 grit sand paper to achieve a rough surface. Remember, rough surfaces to don't shine when wet.
Important - Remember to handle the decoy by the keel only as the oil on your hands will contaminate the surface and reduce paint adhesion.
Drake Mallard decoys
Black Duck decoys
Drake Pintail decoys
Drake Widgeon decoys
The paint colors below are all available right at Wal-Mart or Home Depot, no special orders needed. Please note these are colors are not on shelf, they need to be mixed. Also, please note these paints must be flat, do not use satin.
Mallard Colors - .pdf document