How to Apply Chrome Paint

Chrome paint can be used on other surfaces, such as plastic.

Chrome plating first burst onto the automotive scene in the 1920s. Since then, many Americans have developed a love affair with chrome's lustrous shine. Traditional chrome is made by electroplating chromium onto a metal object, a process that is both time-consuming and somewhat expensive. Fortunately, today's market has several chrome paints available that can provide chrome's famous shine at a fraction of the cost. Chrome paint can even be used to paint non-traditional materials such as plastic. Using such paints can be easy and cost effective if handled correctly.

Things You'll Need

• Chrome paint
• Black primer
• Soap
• Water
• Paintbrush
• Clear lacquer

Instructions

1. Clean the surface of the object you would like to paint with a little soap and water and let it dry.

2. Paint the object with your primer using a paintbrush. Paint with smooth, even strokes. If you chose to use spray primer, cover the area thoroughly.

3. Let the primer sit over night to dry.

4. Paint the object with your chrome paint using a brush with strong, tight bristles, or spray on the paint with your spray can.

5. Let the chrome paint dry for a full 24 hours. Apply a second coat of paint and let that dry for 24 hours.

6. Apply a coat of lacquer and let it dry for 24 hours. Apply a second coat of lacquer and let it dry for 24 hours before use.

Tips & Warnings

• When cleaning the object, you must get off all the dirt or other particles in order to have a smooth surface.

• If you can see the object's surface color through the black primer, spray or brush on another coat of primer.

References

• Applying Primer and Wall Paint
• How to Apply Primer Like a Pro
• Chrome paint

Resources

• Spray Painting