How to Refurbish Antique License Plates
Antique license plates are part of Americana, which is anything that was made in America and pertaining to a certain time period. Vintage license plates that were made up until 1950 and no later than 1960 are collectible, because they are from an era of classic cars that are considered antique today. Old cars in general are valuable, and antique license plates from those old cars are sought after by collectors. Condition may be a factor in how collectors choose plates.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Paint thinner
- Small paint brush
- Paper towel
- Bricks
- Pliers
- Painter's easel
- Metal paint
- Artist paint brushes
- Clear acrylic matte gloss spray paint
Instructions
-
-
1
Clean antique license plates by first removing stubborn layers of grime, rust or dirt. Use paint thinner and a small paint brush. Apply a small amount of paint thinner to the tip of the bristles, and spread in even strokes over the surface of the license plate. This should only be used when repainting the entire surface, if worn. Don't use paint thinner on a near mint antique license plate that is just a little dirty.
-
2
Flatten the license plate before working on it with paint after cleaning. Take the plate, and place it on a sturdy flat surface. Put a paper towel sheet underneath the plate, and then one on top. Take a heavy object, such as a large brick, and place it carefully on top of the plate. Add another brick or two, to help flatten the plate evenly. Use pliers to bend back in place small sections of the plate that are just slightly bent.
-
-
3
Place the plate on a painter's easel, or a steady surface, so that it doesn't move. Research the colors of the plate and numbers if restoring to near original condition. You should try to keep the plate as original as possible to help retain the authentic antique look of the plate. If the plate just needs a touch-up as well, get the right paints for painting metal at a hardware store.
-
4
Use various-sized artist paint brushes, and prime the plate first with metal paint primer beforehand to get a smoother finish. Let dry, and then begin the base color. Apply one coat, and let dry. Repeat on the back of the plate. See how the color looks. If the plate needs another coat, then re-apply a second. Let dry. Follow the indentation on the plate where the numerals and letters are on the front. Use black paint for numerals and letters. Try to paint as neatly and evenly as possible.
-
5
Use a clear acrylic matte gloss spray paint to give the plate a subtle sheen and to protect the paint's new numbers and letters when dry. This will give the plate an original "new" look, and should last for quite some time. Display the plate on a shelf or wall, or store away in a clean, dry place to protect the new finish.
-
1
