How to Paint a Design on Kayaks

Kayaks are used by paddlers on streams, creeks, rivers and open water such as lakes and oceans. Kayaks are designed by various manufacturers such as Perception, Delta and Dagger in specific lengths and shapes depending on the intended use. Sometimes kayak owners want to customize a kayak by painting a logo or design onto the hull, a process that involves a certain amount of preparation as well as the use of appropriate paint.

Things You'll Need

  • Soap water
  • Clean water
  • Clean cloth
  • Denatured alcohol
  • Krylon paint
  • Marine paint
  • Brushes
  • Stencil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the area on the kayak where the design is to be painted. Use soapy water and a cloth to remove debris and dirt. Rinse well.

    • 2

      Wipe down the area of the kayak to be painted with denatured alcohol. This will remove any grease or other material that may interfere with the paint bonding to the kayak.

    • 3

      Determine the material used for making the hull of the kayak. Typically this will be either a fiberglass composite or plastic.

    • 4

      Paint plastic kayaks using Krylon paint formulated to bond with plastic materials. This method is especially recommended for applying designs using a stencil.

    • 5

      Paint designs on fiberglass or plastic kayaks using a brush and marine-grade paints. Use paints formulated for use on and around water and artist brushes to apply designs.