Mannequins don’t have to stay plain or factory‑finished. With the right paint for mannequins, you can completely transform their look—whether you’re creating a quirky green alien for a themed display, a bronze Oscar‑style mannequin for a glamorous showcase, or restoring a vintage mannequin to its original charm. DIY mannequin painting opens endless possibilities for retail displays, art projects, and visual merchandising.

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When painting display mannequins, the most important step is selecting a surface‑appropriate paint. Whether you’re working with fiberglass, polypropylene, foam, or fabric mannequins, the right choice ensures smooth, lasting results. The wrong paint can lead to peeling or cracks—perfect only if you’re designing a Halloween prop.

Best Paint Options for Mannequins: Fiberglass, Polypropylene, Foam & Fabric

When painting display mannequins, the essentials include a surface‑appropriate spray paint for full coverage, brush‑on paints for detail work, and a satin‑finish sealant to protect your design. For extra impact in visual merchandising displays, add a gloss finish to highlight features and create a polished look.

Best Spray Paints for Fiberglass, Polypropylene, Foam, and Fabric Mannequins

To get the best results, pick a spray paint suitable for mannequin materials. For polypropylene display mannequins, that means using plastic‑safe spray paints. Explore these top options for your next visual merchandising project.

1.     Dulux Duramax Plastic Primer

For flawless mannequin spray painting, a primer undercoat is essential. It improves paint adhesion and enhances durability. Dulux Duramax fast‑drying primer offers reliable coverage and is suitable for most hard plastic display mannequins.

2.     Rust-oleum 2X Ultra Cover Paint+Primer

Rust‑Oleum 2X spray paint is one of the leading budget‑friendly options for mannequin painting. Designed for use on plastic and other surfaces, it provides twice the coverage with each coat. Choose from a variety of finishes and colors—including Black, Rose Gold, Deep Teal, and Real Orange—to create standout retail displays.

3.     Dy-Mark Acrylic Spray Paint

Transform your display mannequins with Dy‑Mark acrylic spray paint, offering a high‑gloss finish in eye‑catching colors like Wildfire Red, Grassy Green, and Electric Purple. This low VOC, low‑toxicity paint is safer to use and ideal for retail visual merchandising projects. For optimal coverage, apply a primer undercoat first.

Mannequin Painting Supplies Checklist
• Soap, water, and rags for cleaning mannequins
• Fine‑grade sandpaper for prepping fiberglass or plastic surfaces
• Paintbrushes for precision detailing
• Safety essentials: old clothing, gloves, and a face mask

How to Paint a Mannequin: Tips for Smooth, Lasting Results

Start by taking your mannequin apart and lightly sanding the limbs to remove shine so the paint sticks. Wash with soap and water, let it dry, and prep your area with protective gear.
Spray on a thin, even coat of paint, keeping the can at a slight distance. Two coats usually give full coverage. Lock in the color with a satin sealant.

Once dry, grab your brushes to add personality—whether that’s make‑up, nail polish, or bold artistic designs. For extra realism, finish with gloss highlights on the eyes and lips.

After a full day of drying, reassemble your mannequin, then dress, pose, and showcase your creation.