Exterior Paint For Carvings?

[JNC]

I have just started carving and I'm interested in carving large fish that will be outside. The look that I'm looking for is to have them brightly colored which I can't get from stain. On my first craving which is pictured. I used Kilz for a primer, interior house paint and polyurethane exterior finish. I,however, am worried and fading and was wondering if there are better paints?

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Use "One Shot" sign painters paint...

[Robson Valley]

Weather and climate can and will beat the finish off outdoor carvings, same as it does to painted house trim. Seasonal temperature swings at my place run 100F/55C from coldest winter to hottest summer sun. I will put two x 30" x 3" x 12" Ravens in Western Red Cedar out in the yard with just the beaks stained black. Weathering is natural, I'm curious to watch. Not an effect that I can duplicate in my shop.

[carvingbarn]

Oils will do better over time outdoors. I seal them with a oil based spar varnish.

[AlArchie]

Times, they be a'changin! Check the art or hobby store paint section for exterior acrylics. They come in all the bright colors and are reasonably priced.

All Product Details for Exterior Acrylics - BLICK art materials




Al

[Robson Valley]

I think what concerns me more is the possibility of moisture getting under the acrylic surface and lifting it = cracked, peeling, etc is what I can imagine. Hence, I'll use a stain, might be soot in engine oil, and let them go.

[Eddy-Smiles]

I've used exterior acrylics like Al has suggested with pretty good luck. The kind of wood that you put them on makes a big difference. Make sure that what ever you use is well dried and well seasoned.

[JNC]

Just the info that I was looking for. Thanks for all the responces. BTW here is the second fish that I just finished. Not a great pic, but you get the idea.

[AlArchie]

Jack, there is always a chance for moisture getting into the wood if it's left outside. And in desert areas there may be excessive shrinking due to the wood drying out. Both circumstances can be mitigated by applying a GOOD exterior sealr before painting. Make sure ALL surfaces are thoroughly saturated with the sealer.

Check with your local paint or hardware store that handles high grade sealers in quart sizes.

Al

[Robson Valley]

Great fish (Yellowfin tuna?) I like it coming out of the water. You've saved a moment in time for us to see.