How to Paint Brass Hinges
When metallic hinges become old and dingy, many people choose to liven them up with a fresh coat of paint. Most of the time, this can be accomplished with a quick coat of spray primer and paint. However, if you're planning to paint brass hinges, there are a few things you need to know before you get started. Unlike most metallic surfaces, brass requires a specific preparation process to avoid peeling and flaking. Many amateur do-it-yourselfers are surprised to learn that the wrong approach to preparing brass for paint can result in disappointing and even dangerous results. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Newspaper
- Rags
- Gloves
- Mineral spirits
- PCB etch
- Oil-based spray primer
- Oil-based spray paint
Instructions
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1
Use a screwdriver to remove the brass hinges.
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2
Spread out newspapers on either the floor or a table.
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3
Place the brass hinges on the newspapers. Use mineral spirits to clean the brass hinges thoroughly. Allow about ten minutes for the mineral spirits to evaporate completely before proceeding.
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4
Use PCB etch to rough up the brass hinges to promote adhesion. Follow the application instructions that came with the particular type of PCB etch you purchased.
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5
Rinse the brass hinges thoroughly with water.
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6
Apply a light coat of oil-based spray primer to the brass hinges. Allow an hour for the brass hinges to dry.
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7
Flip the brass hinges over and apply a light coat of oil-based spray primer to the second side. Allow an hour for the brass hinges to dry.
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8
Repeat steps 6 and 7, except use oil-based spray paint instead of primer.
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9
Allow an hour for the brass hinges to dry. Add another coat if necessary.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Open and close the hinges between each coat of primer and paint to help prevent them from sticking shut.
PCB etch is available at most painting and home-improvement stores.
Muriatic and nitric acid are generally used to etch steel. However, never use this for brass, as it will form dangerous and toxic fumes.
