How to Make Metal Artwork

Metal art works great in the yard

Metal artwork is durable and weatherproof. You can make everything from beasts to butterflies with metal. Metal artwork works well as garden or yard art but can also be showcased indoors.

Things You'll Need

• Metal piece
• Paint scraper or razor blade
• Marker
• Snips
• Metal file
• Paint, paint markers and other art supplies as desired
• Glue, hook or wire (optional)

Instructions

1. Root through your garage or visit your local salvage yard to find a piece of metal. You can also use metal from old pieces of furniture, construction supplies or fencing debris. Any size, shape or texture will do.

2. Prepare your metal by hosing off any dirt and using a paint scraper or razor blade to remove caked-on gunk, stickers or other debris.

3. Examine your piece. Lay the metal piece in front of you and figure out what it looks like (for example, a bird's head, a frog, a sun, a star). Move it into different positions to see which angle works best. You may need to alter the piece to make it into the art you want. Some metal pieces will need no further alterations while others will need to be cut.

4. Cut if necessary. Use snips to cut off any loose ends or edges or to make the metal into the shape of your artwork.

5. Smooth any rough edges with a metal file.

6. Paint as desired. Use weatherproof spray paint or brush-on paint to give your metal a base coat of color. Add any desired borders, spots or shading with a contrasting color. Finish it off with small details using paint pens or a small brush. Details may include eyeballs, stripes, swirls or other designs.

Tips & Warnings

• Attach a hook on the back of the metal artwork by using a quality craft glue and picture-frame hooks. If the back of your metal is uneven, you may be able to loop and attach wire through parts of it so you can hang it.

• Metal can be incredibly sharp. Wear protective gloves while cutting and filing it.

Resources

• Metal Yard Art