Synthetic leather is a material that is commonly used for upholstery, clothing and accessories; usually, it is made with a plastic polymer and reproduces the look and texture of real leather. Painting it is a fun and inexpensive project that allows you to transform a dress or renew an old accessory. After choosing the paint that adheres to the material, have fun coloring an old faux leather chair or creating decorations on the handbag or skirt!
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Choosing the Right Paint
Step 1. Use acrylic paints
This type of paint is available in a wide range of colors, including metallic and shimmery shades. You can buy it in paint factories and fine art shops; can be applied to many surfaces and adheres well to faux leather. It does not fade as easily as other paints, is flexible and less likely to crack over time.
Step 2. Opt for a leather paint
This is a variation of the acrylic products that you can find in craft and fine art stores. There are many different colors formulated specifically for both real and synthetic leather; this paint is slightly more expensive than normal acrylic paint - a vial costs between 2 and 8 euros. Although it is more expensive, it is less likely to chip or fade over time.
Step 3. Evaluate the chalk paint
This product gives a deliberately worn and worn look to every accessory or piece of furniture; it adheres to many different surfaces and fabrics, making it perfect for faux leather projects. Many manufacturers have developed different types of chalk paint, which you can find for sale in fine art stores or paint shops.
Part 2 of 3: Applying the Paint
Step 1. Clean the material
Use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to remove dust, dirt, grease and wax from the faux leather item. Moisten a cotton swab and rub the entire surface; in this way, you ensure a perfect adherence between the color and the synthetic leather.
Step 2. Use a palette
Prepare it for easy access to colors as you work. You can buy one in wood or plastic at a craft or art store; alternatively, you can use aluminum foil, newspaper or magazine.
Step 3. Mix a small amount of acetone into the acrylic paint
Put the amount of color you want on the palette and, if you have opted for acrylics, add a few drops of this substance. The acetone dilutes the paint making it smoother and easier to apply; gently mix the two products with a small brush. Remember to use only a few drops of thinner and no more than 5ml, to prevent the color from becoming too watery.
- Acrylic paint dries quickly, so don't pour too much on the palette at one time;
- If the color seems too thick, gradually add a few drops of acetone.
Step 4. Apply a primer base on large surfaces
If you want to renew a large object with a uniform color, you must first apply a coat of adhesion; choose a product suitable for the paint you have chosen and spread it on the material. This procedure is ideal when working on furniture or clothing.
Step 5. Apply the paint to the side of a sponge
Gently press it onto the palette to absorb some of the color and distribute the paint over the faux leather with long, vertical strokes. Acrylic paint dries quickly, so you need to act fast.
When you paint large surfaces, be careful to apply the paint with long strokes to avoid leaving streaks; if you are renovating a liner, consider only painting one side at a time
Step 6. Let the paint dry
Before adding more coats of color, wait until the surface is completely dry. Store the item in a safe place where it cannot be moved, damaged or "disturbed" in any way; wait about 15-20 minutes.
Step 7. Make the color more intense by applying more layers
Once the first coat has dried well, add another to make the color brighter and more intense; as you add additional layers, make sure the previous ones are dry.
Part 3 of 3: Painting a Design
Step 1. Draw a design on the surface
Use a pencil to delicately define the outline of the decoration on the faux leather; do not press too hard, otherwise it will affect the surface. The paint is also semi-transparent, so any lines that are too heavy under it may be visible.
Step 2. Color the drawing
Using a brush, fill the spaces of the decoration with the colors you prefer; do not create a thick layer of paint, as it may crack over time. If the design is multicolored, wait for each shade to dry before moving on to the next to avoid damaging it.
Remember to clean your brushes every time you choose to use a new color. Have a glass of water on hand to dip the brush into before using it to pick up another tint
Step 3. "Erase" mistakes with acetone
If you made a mistake with the colors, pour a little acetone on a cotton swab or a cotton swab and gently remove the paint; once you are successful and the area has dried, you can continue painting.
Step 4. Wait for it to dry
When you're done painting, set the item aside and let it air dry; check that it is a safe place where it cannot be damaged or disturbed. The paint dries within 15-20 minutes.
