How to Repaint Vinyl Banners

After years of heavy use, vinyl banners often look old, or beat up. Give your vinyl banners a breath of fresh air by applying a fresh coat of paint. Painting vinyl is difficult because of the material's smooth, slick surface. You must properly prepare vinyl to accept paint before attempting to apply a new coat. For best results, use a paint specially designed for vinyl surfaces and choose a color similar to the original banner color.

Wash the vinyl banner with a mixture of soap and warm water. Allow the banner to air dry.

Mix one part trisodium phosphate (TSP) to sixteen parts water. Apply this mixture to the vinyl banner using a clean rag to break the glossy seal. Double check the TSP instructions manual before working the the mixture as TSP is a very strong solution.

Apply an acrylic primer to the vinyl with a paint brush. Allow this primer to dry.

Draw the banner design on top of the primer layer using a pencil. If desired, use a stencil to draw the design. Tape the stencil to the banner using masking tape and trace the design with a pencil.

Paint the background of the vinyl banner using a paint brush. Allow this paint to dry, then add a second coat.

Paint the design color of the vinyl banner with a paint brush. Allow paint to dry, and add a second coat.

Spray banner with a vinyl and plastic color spray. Allow this spray to dry before moving the banner. A plastic spray gives the added bonus of making the banner water proof.