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• Part 1 of 3: Cleaning the surface

If you've ever wondered how to spruce up a metal object with a coat of new paint or how to paint a metal surface, know that this is easy to do. It's also quite easy to do. Better still, you don't have to repaint a metal object you want to fix in the same color, which means you can come up with and run all kinds of interesting DIY projects. You will be able to accomplish this task with ease if you properly prepare the metal for painting.

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Part 1 of 3: Cleaning the surface

1. Work in a well-ventilated area. Working in an area with paint and rust particles can be harmful to you, so choose a well-ventilated area where you can place a tarpaulin under the metal object. Wear gloves and a dust mask while working.
   • Keep a damp cloth handy to be able to wipe away paint, dust and rust particles from time to time while working. This is a lot safer than waiting until the end to clean.
   • If there is the slightest chance that the paint you are removing contains lead, it is imperative to wear a dust mask to stay safe.
2. Clean the surface of the metal. Wipe off all sanding dust with a damp cloth and discard the cloth. Scrape off any remaining pieces of paint from the metal. Grab a clean cloth and rub the metal thoroughly to remove all loose paint, dirt, grease and dust from the surface.
   • Even if the surface appears to be quite clean, do not skip this step. The metal should be spotless or at least as clean as possible.
   • By not properly cleaning the metal you will not be able to paint it nicely. The paint will not adhere well to the metal and will peel off quickly.
   • Oil on the surface of just galvanized metal can ruin the paint job. So clean the surface well, whether you can see the oil with the naked eye or not. Use a simple mixture of detergent and water to wipe the newly galvanized metal.
3. Apply zinc chromate paint first if the metal is corroded. Do this before applying regular primer, but only if it is metal that is rusty. If the metal is not rusty, start with a regular oil-based primer described below. Before applying the paint, scrape off any loose rust and wipe the surface to remove chips and residue. Once you've removed the rust, coat the metal with zinc chromate paint before applying a regular primer.
   • You will need to treat the metal with a regular primer immediately after using one of these products, so do not apply the zinc chromate paint until you are ready to apply the primer.
   • Zinc chromate is an anti-rust substance. You spray this substance on the metal first because the zinc chromate must be closest to the surface of the metal to protect it from rust. After applying zinc chromate, immediately apply the normal primer so that the zinc chromate forms the first layer. The first coat is also intended to allow the regular primer to adhere.
4. Apply a second coat of primer. Because metal is very sensitive to oxidation, it is best to apply two layers of primer. The paint will adhere well to the surface and the metal will be more resistant to wear, damage and exposure to the elements.
   • Rust in particular can be prevented by applying a primer in the right way.
5. Let the first coat of paint dry completely. Read the information on the product packaging to determine the drying time. If you don't let the first coat of paint dry completely, the paint won't last as long. Fortunately, most acrylic paints dry quickly and you can get the job done in a day if you plan well.
6. Apply a second coat of acrylic paint to the surface. Make sure to apply the paint as evenly as possible. By applying a second layer, the metal will look as good as possible. The metal is also better protected and the paint layer will last longer.
   • It is possible to apply a first layer of paint in a certain color, let the paint layer dry and apply a second layer of paint in a different color. This is a perfect method for applying letters or a logo to a metal surface.
   • Acrylic paint is water resistant, which means you can apply multiple layers to get different effects.
   • If you are applying several coats, allow each coat to dry completely before applying another coat.
7. Let the last coat of paint dry for 36 to 48 hours before using the metal object. If possible, paint where you can leave the object when you're done so you don't have to move it. This way you cannot accidentally damage the finished surface.