How to Repaint Faded Metal Indoor Furniture

Faded metal furniture is easily repainted.

Aging metal furniture may lose its luster and begin to fade. This makes it look dull, but repainting can make it look new again. The process is nearly the same as painting outdoor furniture, except less care is required for weatherproofing the metal. Using spray paint is the quickest way to get even coverage on metal, and some spray paints are specifically made for metal items.

Things You'll Need

• Painter's mask
• Dropcloth
• Rubber gloves
• Eye goggles
• Dish detergent
• Bucket
• Sponges
• Cloth
• White vinegar
• Towels
• Sandpaper
• Metal spray primer
• Spray paint for metal

Instructions

1. Take the metal furniture outdoors, if at all possible. If not, open windows in your work area and use a painter's mask when priming and painting.

2. Place the metal furniture on a dropcloth. Put on rubber gloves and protective eye goggles. Mix 3 tbsp. of dish detergent in a 5-gallon bucket of hot water.

3. Wash the furniture with this solution to clean it of dirt and grease. When you are finished, rinse with clean water and dry with a towel. Wet a cloth in white vinegar and wipe over the furniture, covering all surfaces. Allow the furniture to air dry for a half hour.

4. Sand the furniture only if the old paint is chipping. Afterwards, use a tack cloth to remove dust from sanding.

5. Spray metal primer on the furniture, covering all surfaces. To achieve even coverage, keep the spray can at least 6 inches away at all times, moving in even up-and-down motions.

6. Allow the primer to dry for the time indicated on the label. When it is dry, shake the can of spray paint well and start spraying. Apply just as you did the primer.

7. Let the first coat dry completely. Check the label for instructions on how long this should take. When the time is up, press your finger in an inconspicuous spot on the furniture. If any color comes off on your finger, the paint needs more time to dry; otherwise, apply a second coat. Let the paint fully cure before using the furniture. This may take up to two to three days; check the label.

References

• Michigan State University Extension; Painting Metal Outdoor Furniture - Refurbishing