How to Refinish Metal Furniture

Give rusted furniture new life.

You can often find metal furniture hidden at the back of a second-hand store or a flea market. Iron and other metals are often overlooked because the dirt and rust make the piece seem impossible to use. Overlook the rust and see the furniture’s true potential. With a little elbow grease you can refinish metal furniture and make it look as good as new.

Things You'll Need

• Dish-washing soap Water Bucket Sponge Spray bottle Steel bristled brush Sandpaper Putty Spray primer Spray paint

Instructions

1. Mix 2 tbsp. of dish-washing soap with warm water. Dip a sponge in the bucket and scrub the metal to remove all dirt and debris. Let the metal dry thoroughly.

2. Scrub the rust with a steel-bristled brush. Press firmly and move the brush back and forth quickly to dislodge loose rust. Remove as much rust as possible.

3. Spray the metal with phosphoric acid. Let the acid penetrate the metal overnight. In the morning the acid will have turned any unseen rust into iron phosphate crust.

4. Sand the chair with medium-grit sandpaper. Sanding will remove the iron phosphate. Sanding will also create a rough texture on the surface of the metal. A rough surface will allow the paint to adhere to the surface.

5. Spray paint the metal furniture. Choose a paint formulated for metal. These paints are durable and also help to prevent future rust. Paint from the top of the furniture and work your way down. Apply multiple thin coats of paint, until the metal is completely coated. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next. Allow the final coat to dry overnight.

Tips & Warnings

• Spray paint can get very expensive. Choose oil-based paint in the quart or gallon size to save money. Paint slowly with thin, even coats to get the best finish.

References

• RealtyTimes: Refinish Bedframe
• This Old House: A Blacksmith Shows How to Protect Ornamental Metalwork