How to Paint a Copper Kettle
Old copper kettles are commonly found in antique and thrift stores. They often have a wooden or porcelain handle. Decorative painting is traditionally done on wood surfaces, but it also works well for decorating metal surfaces such as copper kettles. Repurposing a copper kettle by decorating it with painted designs turns it into a decorative home accent. By adding painted designs such as a scene or smaller designs, it becomes a focal piece to the room's decor. This is especially trendy in country and primitive-style decorating.
Things You'll Need
- Decorative paint design pattern (found online or purchased)
- Tracing paper
- Pencil
- Graphite paper
- Tape
- Metal-safe acrylic paint
- Paintbrushes
Instructions
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1
Clean the surface of the copper kettle with soap and water. Dry the kettle thoroughly. Removing any tarnish is optional; it is sometimes preferred to keep the original charm of the antique copper.
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2
Lay the tracing paper over the paint design pattern and tape it in place. Trace the pattern outlines onto the paper.
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3
Place the graphite paper with the graphite against the kettle surface. Lay the tracing paper over the graphite paper and tape both layers in place.
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4
Trace the pattern to transfer the design onto the kettle. The graphite will adhere to the kettle's surface, leaving a copy of the traced pattern as a guideline for painting.
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5
Begin painting the design according to the paint pattern instructions. Paint patterns, both purchased and online, usually come with instructions. If your design does not include instructions, first paint the background areas. Allow the paint to dry completely between steps. Finish painting the detailed areas.
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Tips & Warnings
Paint patterns can be found in decorative painting books and from decorative painting Web sites. These are available complete with a finished example, a pattern to trace, and instructions.
Several types of acrylic paints made for use on metals can be found at a local craft supply store. They paint more easily, adhering efficiently, to metal surfaces without any primers or additional coats necessary.
Clean the painted surface with a soft damp towel when needed. Don't submerge the painted kettle in water or place it in a dishwasher; doing so will damage the painted surface.
Do not use the painted copper kettle for cooking or heating water to avoid burning the painted areas.
References
- Photo Credit bouilloire en cuivre image by patrick CRONNE from Fotolia.com
