DIY Plastic Playhouse Makeover: How to Upcycle and Paint a Plastic Playhouse

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Learn how to do a DIY plastic playhouse makeover with step-by-step instructions, the best spray paints for plastic, and creative color schemes to transform an old playhouse into a new favorite.

If you’ve ever scrolled through TikTok or Pinterest and seen those dreamy playhouse makeovers, you know how magical a little paint can make an old plastic playhouse look. Whether you scored a second-hand playhouse at a garage sale, inherited one from family, or want to give your own new plastic playhouse a fresh look, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to do a DIY plastic playhouse makeover that lasts.

When my first son was about a year old (he’s now 7!), we were gifted a well-loved Little Tikes model playhouse. It had great bones but definitely needed a refresh.

With some creative ideas, a few coats of paint, and the right supplies, I was able to give it a new look that my boys now love. And the best part? The whole makeover took just one weekend.

This is a fun, easy fix for parents looking to upcycle toys instead of tossing them, and it’s such a great way to create a personalized play space for your kids. This post was originally created in 2020, and our playhouse stayed looking beautiful for years, even outside in the elements!

Check out the before and after pictures below!

Note: Some links may be affiliate links. That means I may make a commission if you use my links to purchase, at no extra added cost to you! I only recommend products that I personally love and believe in. Full disclaimer here.

Why Try a DIY Plastic Playhouse Makeover?

• Affordable upgrade: You can turn a faded, old plastic playhouse into a gorgeous “new playhouse” with less than $100 in supplies.
• Customizable: Choose any color scheme—neutral, farmhouse, or bright and bold. I used a white body, a charcoal roof, gray shutters, and a bright blue door.
• Eco-friendly: Instead of buying brand new, you can upcycle second-hand playhouses for a fraction of the cost.
• Fun project: This is a great weekend DIY with a big before-and-after payoff. Plus, you can use the technique to make over all kinds of plastic kids toys, like this DIY Cozy Coupe Makeover.

Supplies You’ll Need to Paint a Plastic Playhouse

Before you start your playhouse makeover, gather everything you’ll need. Most can be found at Home Depot, Amazon, or even Dollar Tree for small extras like cleaning supplies.

I’ve linked all of my supplies below on Amazon and Home Depot depending on what’s easier for you! Home Depot will let you easily do in-store pickup of all of these items in just a few hours if you don’t want to wait on shipping.

• Spray primer (plastic-friendly) – at least 1 can for doors and slick areas; add more if you plan to prime the whole house
• Plastic-friendly spray paint (Rustoleum’s Painter’s Touch 2X line works best)
  • Body: 3 cans of paint
  • Roof: 2 cans
  • Door: 1 can
  • Shutters: 1 can
• Spray sealer – at least 2 cans (add extra coats of sealant for doors and high-touch areas)
• Canvas drop cloth or plastic tarp for painting (avoid thin plastic drop cloths, which can stick to painted surfaces)
• Warm water, Goo Gone, or a power washer for cleaning
• Painter’s tape (optional for outdoor lights, flag poles, or detailed trim)

Recommended Spray Paint Colors for This Project

While you can paint your playhouse literally any color you want, below are the shades of paint I used if you want to recreate the same color scheme:

• Black Roof: Canyon Black
• Gray Shutters: Dark Gray
• Blue Doors: Seaside
• White Interior/Exterior: White

Note: it doesn’t really matter what finish or sheen you use. Totally personal preference!

Home Depot: Links to find the primer, white spray paint, gray spray paint, black spray paint, blue spray paint, spray sealer, drop cloth

Amazon: Links to find the primer, white spray paint, gray spray paint, black spray paint, blue spray paint, spray sealer, drop cloth

Step-by-Step Guide to a DIY Plastic Playhouse Makeover

Step 1: Take the Playhouse Apart

The first step is disassembling your piece of the playhouse into sections. Remove the door handle, shutters, and sides of the door. This makes it easier to apply even coats of paint and prevents tape from peeling off fresh paint later.

Step 2: Deep Clean the Playhouse

Clean every part thoroughly, inside AND outside. I used warm water with soap and added Goo Gone on sticky spots.

A power washer is also an easy fix if your playhouse has been outside for years. Let it dry completely—ideally a full 24 hours of dry time—before moving on.

Step 3: Prime the Surfaces

Certain plastic materials (like the doors) are slick and need extra help for paint to stick. Apply at least two coats of primer to these spots.

For the whole house, one first coat of primer is usually enough. Always follow the can’s directions and allow proper dry time between coats. Be sure to prime the entire surface for best results.

Step 4: Spray Paint the Playhouse

Now comes the fun part—paint! Choose a color scheme that matches your backyard or your child’s personality. Apply at least two coats of paint on every surface for the best work.

Remember:

• Start with the back sides of pieces in case they stick to your tarp.
• Spray in a well-lit area (I learned the hard way that painting in the hot sun or near dusk leads to missed spots).
• Avoid plastic drop cloths—use cardboard or a canvas tarp instead (also learned this one the hard way)

Need some inspiration? Popular color schemes include:

• Farmhouse chic: White paint body, black or charcoal roof, gray shutters.
• Bright & playful: Blue doors, yellow trim, green shutters.
• Neutral modern: Beige body, dark brown roof, slate shutters.

Step 5: Apply Sealer

After at least 24 hours of dry time, spray the entire house with two coats of sealant. High-touch areas like the sides of the door or door handle may need 3–4 coats for durability. This extra step ensures your makeover lasts through rain, sun, and heavy play.

Step 6: Reassemble and Add Finishing Touches

Once fully dry, reassemble your model playhouse. Add outdoor lights (Dollar Tree has cute solar options), a mini welcome mat, or even potted flowers for a Pinterest-worthy finish.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Plastic Playhouse Makeovers

• Read the can’s directions carefully—paint formulas vary. Be sure that your spray paint is made for plastic.
• Don’t rush coats. A couple hours of dry time isn’t enough; let each coat of paint cure properly.
• If you’re painting in extreme weather, bring pieces into a garage or shaded area.
• Use acrylic paints and a brush for small details or accents.
• If you mess up? No worries. Just add another coat of paint—it’s an easy fix.

Final Thoughts on Creating Your Own DIY Plastic Playhouse Makeover

This DIY plastic playhouse makeover is a perfect way to turn an old plastic playhouse into something magical. With just a coat of paint, a few hours of dry time, and a little creativity, you can give your kids a custom new playhouse they’ll treasure.

My boys love their upcycled Little Tikes playhouse, and I love that I gave new life to something instead of buying brand new. Whether you go bold, neutral, or whimsical, these playhouse makeovers prove that with some fresh paint and coats of sealant, the possibilities are endless.

Made over your own playhouse? Tag me today! I love seeing your projects!

Mention @simply.siobhan or tag #MimosasAndMotherhood!

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