×

How to Refinish Foam Planters

Ryan Lawrence

If you would like to refinish your foam planters, you must select the right coating, or you could end up ruining the very item you are attempting to enhance. Because planters are generally located outdoors, they are exposed to varying temperatures and weather conditions.

You must select a durable enamel formulated to hold up under relatively harsh circumstances. Unfortunately, some enamels can melt foam and plastic. Know the right materials to use and the proper way to apply them, or you could end up causing unforeseen damage.

  1. Wash the foam planter with ordinary dish soap, using a sponge. Rinse the planter. Wait 1 to 3 hours for the planter to dry.

  2. Place the planter on a heavy-duty fabric drop cloth.

  3. Coat the foam planter with acrylic spray primer. Maintain a distance of eight inches between the planter and the spray nozzle as you apply. Wait 2 hours for the primed planter to dry.

  4. Coat the primed foam planter with acrylic spray enamel. Maintain a distance of eight inches between the planter and the spray nozzle as you apply. Wait 2 hours for the enamel to dry.

  5. Add a second coat of enamel to the planter if the primer shows through. Wait 6 hours before using the planter.

  6. Warning

    Do not attempt to paint an unprimed foam planter, or the finish will flake.

    Don't use an oil-based enamel, as it may damage the foam planter.