Can You Paint over Metal Art?

Metallic paint is also a protective coating for exposed or outdoor surfaces.  It slows and prevents oxidation, so metal is much less likely to corrode and rust. Look for a metallic paint that is durable and offers long-lasting protection.  Not only will the surface look longer, but the metal will remain in healthy condition.

The best metal paints are long-lasting, rust-resistant, and easy to apply.

How to Prepare Metal for Painting

The preparation you do depends on the paint you use; but it's definitely the key to getting great, long-lasting results.

If you're not using our excellent direct-to-metal paint, you'll need to add an extra step to your prep work - primer.  Since preparation is so important, we have another guide on how to prepare metal the right way.

Use a wire brush to remove loose rust or flaking paint.  If you don't have a wire brush, 120-grit sandpaper will also do the job.
Wipe the metal with a damp cloth.  Remove all dust, dirt and grease.
If you are painting metal that has been painted and is in good condition, use 240-grit sandpaper to roughen the surface.  This will create enough texture for the paint to adhere to.

That's all the preparation you need!  Our direct metal paint requires no primer, so you can paint directly.

How to Paint Metal

Now that you've finished your prep work, it's time to start painting!

You'll need metallic paint, a brush, a dust cloth, and a clean cloth or rag.

Put down the dust cloth and protect the surfaces you don't want paint on.  This is especially important if you're using a sprayer, because while it's great for intricate details, it's much more difficult to control.

If you're painting indoors, open doors and windows and ventilate the room as much as possible.  If you're outdoors, choose a dry, warm day with temperatures above 10 degrees.

If you use spray paint:

1. Shake the can five or six times to mix the paint thoroughly.

2. Spray the metal in sweeping motions, making sure not to stay in the same area for too long.

3. Wipe up any drips to prevent the paint from drying into large drops.

4. Wait for the first coat to dry before applying another.  It may take up to three coats to get an even finish, since spray paint is more delicate than other paints.

If you use a jar and brush:

1. Stir the paint for a few minutes to make sure it is thoroughly mixed.

2. Dip the paintbrush in and wipe away any excess from the edges.  If you're painting intricate details on metal, such as a garden chair, start here.  Make long strokes and paint in the same direction for best results.

3. Check how long you need to wait between coatings on the jar.  For our direct metal paint, you'll need to wait two to four hours.  We recommend applying three coats with light sanding in between for the best protection and finish, but be sure to check the instructions for the paint you're using first.

To care for your metal, inspect it for defects every year.  This will help prevent rust and ensure you get a good finish for longer.  If you notice any cracks, blisters, or scratches, sand away any loose paint and touch up the area with two coats of paint.