Completing your decoys

Preparing and painting decoy heads!

OpenWater Decoy heads are molded using a 2 part foam in aluminum molds. This results in the decoy heads having a smooth surface similar to plastic. It is strongly recommened that decoy heads be sanded first. Followed by using adhesive promoter and a good primer such as kilz prior to your topcoat. We have had great success with Sherwin-Williams samples due to only needing small amount for painting heads.

Burlap coating decoy bodies!

Burlaping decoy bodies probably results in the strongest finish. This is done by applying tile mastic to the body then placing burlap around the whole decoy. Avoid using mold/mildew resistant mastic as it can prevent paint adhesion. Primer isn't required but is recommended for a good topcoat finish.


Restle coating decoy bodies!

Restle coat provides probably the best texture and a strong outer shell. This is done by first sanding the body then covering it in tite bond 2 or 3. Then apply fine crush walnut media(sand blasting media). It is recommoned to complete this process 2 times.

It is recommended to use primer before painting to get an even topcoat.


Painting decoy bodies!

OpenWater Decoy bodies can be painted without coating. OpenWater Decoy bodies are molded using a 2 part foam in aluminum molds. This results in the decoy bodies having a smooth surface similar to plastic. It is strongly recommened that decoy bodies be sanded first. Followed by using adhesive promoter and a good primer such as kilz prior to your topcoat. We have had great success with Sherwin-Williams duracoat.

Other coatings for decoy bodies!

You can also experiment with other coatings such as bed liner, undercoat or kilz over armor.