To clean brand new plastic, wipe down with a cloth soaked in paint thinner. An all-purpose cleaner, such as dish soap, will work if the furniture is not too dirty. Dry the furniture with a cotton towel and allow it to air dry completely. Ensure the furniture is completely dry before proceeding.

For example, if you only want to paint the surface of a table, tape off the top portion of each leg.

Test your sanding material in an inconspicuous spot on the furniture. Reduce pressure or use sanding equipment with a finer grit if any visible scratches appear. After sanding, wipe down the surface of the piece with a tack cloth to remove dust. [2] X Research source Skip to priming if the furniture is already smooth. Old furniture that has sat in the sun may be ready to paint after cleaning and drying. New plastic furniture will likely benefit from a light sanding. It is not compulsory to sand a piece before applying the new paint. You only need to make the surface a little rough to make the paint stick. The surface should be clean and not glossy. [3] X Research source

These will be available at your local home improvement store, and will come in a spray can. Shake the can and spray the entire surface you intend to paint. Apply the primer in a steady back-and-forth motion while holding the can’s nozzle 12-18in (30-45cm) from the surface.

Go with either a satin or semi-gloss finish. This sort of paint will have more color options in liquid form. Ask someone at the paint counter of your local hardware store for a sample portion of whichever color you favor, as this will be especially cheap and will likely be enough to cover a plastic chair, for instance. Use a synthetic brush, or soak a bristle brush in water overnight before use. [8] X Research source