How to Refinish a Retro Metal Table
A retro metal table can be a great accent piece in your home or out in your yard. High-end retailers sell brightly painted metal tables and chairs for hundreds of dollars. There is no reason why you have to pay for brand new when you can simply refinish an old set. Keep an eye out at your local flea market or thrift store for a bargain find. Painting these tables in bright colors turns them from outdated to modern with very little effort. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Ammonia-based cleaner
- Steel bristled brush
- Phosphoric acid
- Sandpaper
- Spray primer
- Spray paint
Instructions
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1
Clean the table thoroughly using an ammonia-based cleaner. Wipe away all dirt and grime until you are left with a shiny, clean surface on which to start your project.
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2
Brush at rusted areas with a steel bristled brush. Remove any visible rust with firm pressure from the brush.
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3
Spray the table with phosphoric acid. Phosphoric acid can be purchased at your local hardware store. Spraying the acid on the table will attack any unseen rusted areas and turn the rust into iron phosphate. Wear gloves while handling this chemical. Leave the phosphoric acid on the table overnight. Use the steel bristled brush to brush away the crust of iron phosphate.
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4
Sand the table using a medium grit sandpaper. Use the sandpaper to create texture on the finish of the metal that will allow the primer to adhere to the surface of the table. Wipe away sanding dust with damp rags.
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5
Apply spray primer to the table. Use a bonding primer. (It should indicate on the can that it is either "bonding" or for "slick surfaces.") Use a steady back and forth motion to apply the primer, slightly overlapping each pass of the spray can. Allow the primer to dry. Apply a second coat if you can see any of the original finish through the first coat of primer.
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Paint the table. Use a spray paint for metal. Rustoleum and Krylon both make metal paints in a range of colors. Apply the first coat of paint using a steady back and forth motion. Allow the first coat to dry to the touch, usually 30 minutes, and apply a second coat. Add a third coat if necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
To maintain the retro look of your new table, choose a paint in a primary color. Many of the tables for the 50's were painted with a white base and a bright color table top. Choose apple green or lemon yellow for the top.
