How to Get a Chrome Looking Finish With Acrylic Paint

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Things You'll Need

  • Paint turntable (optional)

  • Safety goggles

  • Respirator mask

  • Primer spray paint or sandpaper

  • Metal finish acrylic spray paint

  • Clear acrylic topcoat spray paint

Using spray paint gives you better control over the application of the paint.

Paint can dramatically alter the surface of any item, making it look like something completely different. There are commercial spray paints available that can, for example, make simple plywood look like expensive redwood. Plastic and wood items can be made to look metallic with the application of a chrome-finish acrylic spray paint. Prepping the item so that the paint will adhere to it will allow you to spray paint it with acrylic paint in a manner to give it a chrome-like finish.

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Step 1

Set up your painting project in a well-ventilated area. Place the item on a paint turntable if the item is small.

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Step 2

Wear safety goggles and a respirator mask prior to beginning any spray painting.

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Step 3

Prep the surface of the item by either lightly sanding it with fine-grit sandpaper -- 100-grit or higher -- or by applying a coat of primer spray paint. Spray the item from about 1 foot away for better control. Allow the primer coat to air dry for at least two hours -- depending on the humidity in your area -- or until the surface is no longer tacky to the touch.

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Step 4

Use a commercial chrome-finish acrylic spray paint. Apply a single coat on the entire surface of the item that you wish to have a chrome look to it. Allow the item to air dry fully, then apply a second coat of spray paint. Let the item dry overnight.

Step 5

Spray an acrylic clear coat spray paint on the surface of your item to further protect the chrome-like paint. Allow the item to dry completely.

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