Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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How to paint plastic statues to stay translucent

I'm trying to restore a set of Mary and Joseph statues. They are plastic. They are supposed to put light bulb in them. So I repainted them and when the light bulb goes in them they look black. please help

Ann Pressley
Hobbyist - Abbeville South Carolina
2006

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I certainly don't know the answer, but the question is such that it wouldn't surprise me if mine is the only response you get, so here goes...

There are lots of different types of paint, which one to use depends on what you are trying to do and what you are painting. Are there paints that can accomplish what you want - yes; I know a couple of old strands of christmas lights I had had most of their coloring flaking off a few years back - it was clearly painted on. But, you aren't using the right paints.

Check with an art supply store, they might be able to help. If that doesn't work, see if there are any companies that repair fancy glass work (like stained glass windows for example) - they might be able to help. Or, check out the Dykem company on line - I know that they make translucent staining colors, they might make something that can help you out. Or, failing all that, contact a small local theatre - I'm sure more than one set designer has painted a lightbulb to get the look they are trying for.

Good luck!

Jim Gorsich
Compton, California, USA
2006