How to paint on soft plastic?

[hunterelf]

so i've found my Thor's chainmail is starting to flake, so i'm wondering if i should repaint it and maybe use a shinnier coat (chrome maybe?)
i want to know if there's some special paint or procedure to keep to paint from flaking off or at least keep their for a while.

thanks freaks

 

[DarkMario616]

Primer Primer Primer

And a good clear coat in the end.