Painting a rubber prop - Advice needed.

[starbuc]

So I got this really cool rubber First Contact Phaser rifle prop and I am really thinking of painting it. So my question is, does anyone know if I should take any special preparations before I paint the rubber surface? What about primer. Should I use the special primer that is made for plastic or just go with automotive primer?
If I decide to paint it, I want to make sure it turns out perfect, or as close to perfect as possible.
Any thoughts?
Thanks in advance.

Terry

 

[Ronan87]

Your avatar... Garibaldi from Babylon 5? Wow haven't seen that in YEARS! *Blast of memories*

What kind of rubber is it? Make sure to wash it and dry it GOOD before attempting anything.

 

[starbuc]

Not sure what kind of rubber it is to be honest. This is a made for production rubber stunt rifle that was never used, so it was never painted. I know it was designed to be painted, just don't know if I should take any precautions before I do.
But I will give it a good bath in warm water with a small amount of dishwashing liquid before I do any thing else.
Thanks for the advice.

Terry

 

[robstyle]

Dont wash it with dish soap or water, use alcohol on a rag and just wipe it down. Doesnt have to be a bath, just a damp rag. DBU and rattle can paints will be ok but dont cake the paint on.