There are a few methods that allow you to paint and finish stainless steel. You can make your project stand out using different techniques, such as liquid paint, powder pigments, wax, lacquer and patina. Liquid color presents difficulties because the finish of the stainless steel is completely smooth and creates some adhesion problems. However, if you want to change the color of the metal or create a particular surface effect, paint is certainly one of the most suitable solutions.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Prepare to Paint
Step 1. Buy the color
Choose one that is oil-based and of good quality. You can decide to apply it by spray, with a brush or a roller, depending on the final effect you want to achieve. Buy the right tools according to your needs.
To get the smoothest possible look, use spray paint; the roller gives a certain consistency to the color, while the brush accentuates it
Step 2. Get the right wax
You can find many high-quality products in hardware and home improvement stores; these waxes are specifically designed to treat metals. Ask the clerk which one you should buy based on your needs. You will apply it to the colored surface as a final protection.
Step 3. Scrape the stainless steel
If you need to color a relatively new metal that hasn't been used for years, then you will need to create some artificial "damage". Stainless steel is finished to be as smooth as possible, but this makes it very difficult for the color to adhere. If the metal has already been scratched from years of use, then the paint can adhere. If not, use a grinder to make the surface rougher. Be careful because you don't have to destroy the material, just create a few scratches to simulate normal wear.
- You can rent the grinder at a DIY store.
- If you don't want to rent a car, then you can try manually grinding the metal. Get an abrasive sponge and spend some time scrubbing it on the steel. This way you can simulate scratches.
Step 4. Clean and prepare the metal
You need to get rid of all traces of grease, dirt and other residues. It is worth using a specific cleaner for steel or a degreaser; both are available in home improvement stores. If you have decided to use a detergent, carefully read the drying times that are indicated on the package. Respect these times before continuing with your project.
Method 2 of 3: Painting the Stainless Steel
Step 1. Purchase a primer
Choose the product you prefer, as long as it is specifically designed for stainless steel. The primer, also called adhesion, is a binding agent that allows the adhesion between several substances, but it must be of excellent quality and above all specific for the material you are treating - in this case stainless steel. This product guarantees a smooth surface.
A white primer is recommended for most colored paints, but if you have decided to apply a very dark color then you should use a primer of the same shade
Step 2. Apply the primer
If you want to get a very smooth layer, you should consider hiring a spray machine from the hardware store. You can also use a brush, but eventually you would notice the lines of the brush strokes. Spread a coat of primer over the entire area you want to paint.
- If you have decided to use an airbrush, keep the nozzle 30-45cm from the metal and try to use a wide spray.
- In this case, remember to apply the product in one direction only; if there were any marks left, the surface would still have a uniform appearance.
- Wait for the primer to dry before you start painting.
Step 3. Start applying coats of color
You have already completed the difficult job, all you have to do is apply several layers of color to the stainless steel. When the primer has dried you can move on to the paint, but remember that you must wait for each coat of color to dry before applying the next. Usually 2-3 layers of color should suffice. Again you have to decide between the airbrush and the brush. If you used the paint brush for the primer, you will need to use the same tool for the paint as well.
If you like brush strokes you can also use a rag to increase this effect and obtain a sort of surface "decoration"
Step 4. Wait for the paint to dry
Read the instructions on the can of paint you purchased for drying times. When the color is dry, you can proceed to the next steps.
Step 5. When finished, apply a layer of wax
Apply a thin coat over the entire painted area and wait for it to dry until it becomes dull. At this point you can polish the metal with a clean, dry cloth. This final process protects and seals the metal.
You can also use car wax
Method 3 of 3: Workarounds
Step 1. See a professional painter who uses powdered pigments (you can search online)
It is an electrostatic process in which powdered pigments (plastic or epoxy) are deposited on the metal surface forming a very thin layer. At this point we proceed with a "firing" to fix the color. The advantages of this technique are flexibility, a wide range of colors and surface effects, as well as the ability of the powder to adhere to small cracks and grooves without dripping or dripping.
Step 2. Choose the perfect patina
These are chemical solutions that modify the surface of metals by making them change their color. Some are applied hot, others cold, and there are many blends to choose from that allow you to get the best out of your project while maintaining the natural finish. In the end, waxes are often applied to permanently seal the steel.
Step 3. Lacquer the metal
Acrylic lacquer is another product for treating the surface of your metal works. It is easy to apply, "forgives" some processing errors, but ultimately leaves a noticeable "clear surface coating" that not everyone likes. The lacquer can be retouched and reapplied without difficulty even later without altering the overall appearance of the metal.
Step 4. Try nail polish
To color small surfaces or apply text you can use nail polish, which adheres well and looks very nice. It is available in many shades, although the shades of red are the most common.
Advice
- Always follow the instructions on the packaging and do your research on the manufacturer's website for the best results.
- Always work in a dust-free environment to avoid contaminating surfaces.
- Make sure that each coat of color is dry and adhered well before applying subsequent coats.
- When applying powder colors, it is sometimes necessary to sandblast the surface and often it is necessary to immerse the metal in a bath of ferric phosphate before proceeding with the processing, to ensure excellent color adhesion.
- The metal surface to be painted must always be clean. Use a degreasing solvent such as alcohol, acetone, or methyl ethyl ketone.
- Never mix chemicals in contravention of the manufacturer's instructions.
- Always wear gloves and a chemical resistant mask or goggles.
- Always work in a well-ventilated room.
- Always wear an airway protective device or respirator.
