How to Hand-Scrape Metal
Scraping a metal object by hand to prepare it for paint or another type of finish results in the finish adhering better and lasting longer. Metal items often have a slick surface you must roughen to allow the finish to bond to the surface well. A rough finish grabs the paint, enabling it to protect the surface. Using a primer and metal paint that inhibits rust is also imperative to give the item a long-lasting professional finish. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Liquid dishwashing soap
- Bucket
- Sponge
- Towel
- Plastic goggles
- Work gloves
- Coarse grit sandpaper, wire bristle brush or steel wool
- Metal paint scraper (optional)
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Instructions
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Mix a squirt of liquid dishwashing liquid and warm water into a bucket. Swish the water around to create suds.
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Dip the sponge into the soapy water and wring it out. Wash the metal item thoroughly to rid it of dirt, grease or other debris. Rinse the metal item well with clean water and dry it with a towel.
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Wear eye goggles to protect your eyes from any debris and work gloves to protect your hands.
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Scrape off any peeling paint or rust with a coarse grit sandpaper, wire bristle brush or steel wool. Use a paint scraper on flat, large surfaces to speed up the process. Hand-scraping the surface gets rid of any contamination that may stop the finish from bonding correctly.
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Rinse the area well with water after the metal surface is ready for primer and paint. Allow the surface to dry thoroughly before continuing to the painting stage.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid hand-scraping metal that may have lead paint on it. Have the metal object sand-blasted by a professional.
References
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
