Painting foam swords is easier than you may think!

Whether you need to paint a foam pirate sword for an upcoming costume party, want to customize a nerf-style power sword from your favorite sci-fi universe, or need to touch up and protect the finish on your authentic real steel blade, painting swords well requires some know-how. 

In this comprehensive guide, I will walk you through the entire process step-by-step, from proper surface preparation techniques to application of primer and paint, sealing and protecting your finished work. 

By following these tried and true methods, you can achieve a long-lasting, show-quality painted finish on any sword to display proudly for years to come. 

Foam Pirate Swords

If you're looking to paint a foam pirate sword,such as our Cutthroat Life Pirate Cutlass, the process is very forgiving since foam is porous and paint will soak in.

• Start by giving your foam sword a light sanding with fine grit sandpaper to scuff the surface and allow for better paint adhesion. Wipe away any dust.
• For foam swords, you can usually get away with just using acrylic craft paints. Apply a base coat covering the entire sword.
• Allow to dry fully then apply a second top coat.
• Consider drybrushing highlights along edges for extra detail. Once dry your painted foam pirate sword is ready to wield on the high seas!

Painting Power Swords

When painting nerf-style power swords made of hard plastic, preparation is key for a smooth finish.

• Start with a plastic-safe primer such as Krylon Fusion to fill in surface imperfections.
• Lightly sand the primed area before applying your color coats. Enamel model paints work great on hard plastics.
• Apply two thin coats, allowing proper dry time in between, instead of one thick coat to avoid runs or drips.
• For power swords, consider painting details like glyphs, wear patterns or weathering to really make your sword pop.
• A matte clear coat sealant protects the finish.

Painted Swords

For real metal blades such as samurai swords (Japanese katana swords), and battle ready swords, extra care must be taken with prep and application.

• Remove any existing finish or rust with fine steel wool.
• Thoroughly clean and degrease the bare metal.
• Apply a rust-inhibiting primer specifically for metal.
• Sand lightly and wipe away dust before painting. Enamel paints bond best to metal.
• Apply multiple thin coats, allowing full dry time between, rather than fewer thick coats to prevent runs.
• For a realistic look on real swords, consider drybrushing metallic paint colors or washes into recesses to bring out details.
• Once fully dried, apply a durable clear coat designed for metal.

Your painted sword is now ready for display!

How to Paint Power Swords:

Power swords from games like Warhammer 40K can be brought to life with some creative painting.

• Start with a black or gray primer to lay the foundation.
• Apply a base color over the entire sword.
• Then layer on brighter colors in thinner coats, concentrating the color more toward the center of recesses and edges.
• Highlight raised edges with an even lighter color.
• Consider drybrushing on metallic colors like silver in small strokes along edges for extra visual interest.
• Don't forget to paint details like glyphs, gems or wear patterns.
• Protect your work with a matte varnish.

Your newly painted power sword will stand out on the tabletop!

Conclusion

With some basic supplies and techniques, you can transform plain foam, plastic or metal swords into beautifully customized and painted blades. Take your time with preparation and multiple thin coats to achieve a smooth professional look. Consider adding extra details like weathering, wear patterns or freehand designs to make your swords truly unique. 

Check out our awesome collection of foam swords to let out your inner warrior! Some of these are so realistic, you will ACTUALLY be surprised!

Are you a fan or collector of anime swords? Then you must know about their history, right? No? Then check out our blog "The History of Anime Swords and Their Impact on Pop Culture"

Now get out there and proudly wield your newly painted swords, whether for costume play, display, or gaming. With practice, your painting skills will continue to improve over time.