The desire to paint metal surfaces isn't a new one. outside there are times when knowing how to prepare metal for painting is important.
Remove any rust.
If you metal object is brand new you won't have to worry about rust, but if it is older or been outside awhile you may need to remove rust before you continue on your way. Use a wire brush to brush as much of the rust off as possible. Thoroughly was with detergent and water. Rinse well with water and let dry. If you get flash rust in the drying process lightly buff it with WD-40.
Sand your metal.
It is a good idea to sand the metal to prepare a good finish. Choose a sandpaper that is recommended for metals (read the package). Start with a coarse grain and work your way to a finer finish paper.
Get into tight spots.
A rotary tool such as a dremel can help you get into tight spots . Use one of the sanding bits and carefully work your way into these tight spaces. Make sure they are thoroughly cleaned out before you continue.
Wash thoroughly.
Wash your metal once more with detergent and water. Rinse well and let dry. Remove any flash rust if it appears with WD-40.
Make sure the finish is removed.
You will want to make sure any glossy finish is removed from the surface of the metal. To do this wet a sponge with distilled white vinegar and use it to wipe over the surface. This mild acid will make it easier for your primer to adhere well to the surface of the metal.
Prime.
Next you will want to prime the metal with a good primer. Choose a primer that is recommended for metals. Follow the directions on the primer. It is recommended that you paint a layer of primer and let thoroughly dry. Lightly sand and then rinse off the dust. Follow that by a second layer of primer for the best finish and longest lasting application. It is suggested that you use primer even if the company says their paint doesn't need it. It will give a better and longer lasting finish.
You are now ready to paint your metals in the fashion of your choice. You can choose to spray paint it or to use a brush. Either method will work. Take it slowly and sand between paint layers (wiping them clean with a damp sponge) for the best results. These methods work on all types of metals, however it is a good idea to make sure that you check your paints and primers to make sure that they will work on the type of metal you have.
Remove any rust.
If you metal object is brand new you won't have to worry about rust, but if it is older or been outside awhile you may need to remove rust before you continue on your way. Use a wire brush to brush as much of the rust off as possible. Thoroughly was with detergent and water. Rinse well with water and let dry. If you get flash rust in the drying process lightly buff it with WD-40.
Sand your metal.
It is a good idea to sand the metal to prepare a good finish. Choose a sandpaper that is recommended for metals (read the package). Start with a coarse grain and work your way to a finer finish paper.
Get into tight spots.
A rotary tool such as a dremel can help you get into tight spots . Use one of the sanding bits and carefully work your way into these tight spaces. Make sure they are thoroughly cleaned out before you continue.
Wash thoroughly.
Wash your metal once more with detergent and water. Rinse well and let dry. Remove any flash rust if it appears with WD-40.
Make sure the finish is removed.
You will want to make sure any glossy finish is removed from the surface of the metal. To do this wet a sponge with distilled white vinegar and use it to wipe over the surface. This mild acid will make it easier for your primer to adhere well to the surface of the metal.
Prime.
Next you will want to prime the metal with a good primer. Choose a primer that is recommended for metals. Follow the directions on the primer. It is recommended that you paint a layer of primer and let thoroughly dry. Lightly sand and then rinse off the dust. Follow that by a second layer of primer for the best finish and longest lasting application. It is suggested that you use primer even if the company says their paint doesn't need it. It will give a better and longer lasting finish.
You are now ready to paint your metals in the fashion of your choice. You can choose to spray paint it or to use a brush. Either method will work. Take it slowly and sand between paint layers (wiping them clean with a damp sponge) for the best results. These methods work on all types of metals, however it is a good idea to make sure that you check your paints and primers to make sure that they will work on the type of metal you have.
