Eyesore No More: How to Make Over a Standard Plastic Outdoor Playhouse

Faced with spending the summer at home (thanks, COVID-19!), HGTV Canada writer Denise Dias decided to make a tired outdoor playhouse into a cheerful retreat for her daughter. Learn how she pulled off a total transformation for under $100.

Denise Dias

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Makeover Materials

In addition to the plastic kids’ playhouse, the following materials were used for this DIY project:

Spray paint: $45

Solar lights: $24

Window box: $5

Faux flowers: $20

Canadian flag: $3

Denise Dias

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Step One: Take It Apart

This might sound easier than it is – trust us. Give yourself plenty of time and space to carefully disassemble the entire playhouse. Make sure to keep track of all the parts and save the screws in a clearly labelled bag or container for later.

playhouse taken apart in front of wooden fence

Denise Dias

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Step Two: Clean and Sand

Once all the pieces have been separated, get out the garden hose and give everything a good wash. If you notice any tough grime or stubborn spots, use a brush or sponge. After the structure is thoroughly clean and dry, lightly sand all the pieces with an ultra-fine sanding pad.

Denise Dias

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Step Three: Choose Your Paint Colours

When selecting your colour combination, consider the playhouse’s location – try to match the colour palette to a garage, shed or other nearby toys or outdoor swing sets. Stick to a maximum of two or three different colours and choose hues that are complementary but still have enough contrast to make an impact. Don’t shy away from using one really bright or vibrant shade (like a sunny yellow) for a pop of colour on the doors and shutters.

Denise Dias

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Step Four: Apply the First Coat of Spray Paint

Prep your painting area by putting down several cloth drop sheets or discarded cardboard boxes in an outdoor or well-ventilated area. Choose a two-in-one paint and primer to provide more coverage in fewer spray passes and be sure to select a product that bonds to plastic and is rust resistant.

Denise Dias

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Step Five: Apply a Second (or Third!) Coat

Since this project calls for about a dozen cans of spray paint (or more, depending on your colour combo!), it’s worth investing in a trigger grip handle for your spray can to help achieve a smooth, professional finish that won’t leave your hands sore. Allow the paint to fully dry over 48 hours before moving or re-assembling any parts.

Denise Dias

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Step Six: Put It Back Together

Once fully dry, carefully put the playhouse back together again. You may have to replace a few screws if they are rusty. Did you scratch a piece or accidentally chip some paint? Use painter’s tape to protect the surrounding area, then spot spray the damaged part. You can also apply spray paint to a brush or cotton swab for tiny nicks.

Denise Dias

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Step Seven: Accessorize

This is the fun part! Add some playful embellishments to give the playhouse some character and personality. Think flower boxes, solar lights, flags, removable stickers and vibrant door mats. Involve older kids in the selection of decorations to make it extra meaningful.

Denise Dias

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Step Eight: Roll out the Welcome Mat

Place a fun, seasonal or thematic doormat by the entrance to make the playhouse feel like home. Look for a sturdy outdoor mat that will hold up during inclement weather.

Denise Dias

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Step Nine: Light It Up

For an extra touch of glamour that will dress up the entrance, add a couple of inexpensive wall-mounted solar lights. The bonus? Outdoor lights will provide a pretty, soft glow for early evening play.