Have an item in your home that’s starting to look ratty, old and worn? Try painting it! The evolution of paint has changed so dramatically you can paint just about anything to update the item.
For only a few dollars, paint can transform nearly anything into something dazzling and new. Many manufacturers make specialty paints for specific applications; discover these five different materials that you can paint: metal, plastic, wood, glass and upholstery.
Paint Metal (Including Steel, Aluminum & Iron)
Prep: First off, remove any rust and flaking with a wire brush. Sand with 220-grit sandpaper. Rinse with plain water, then let dry.
Painting Tip: Use an exterior-grade primer and paint that are formulated for metal. Acrylic latex paint is usually the best. Avoid cheap metal paint or a spray paint which is likely to rub off.
Image Courtesy: www.rustoleum.com
Paint Plastic
Prep: You want to sand lightly with 320-grit sandpaper so the paint sticks to plastic. Wash with a non-residue cleaner, rinse thoroughly and let dry. Then block off areas you don’t want painted with painter’s tape.
Painting Tip: Use a spray paint formulated for plastic, like Rust-Oleum or Krylon to create a nice smooth, even finish. Hold the nozzle of the spray paint can about 12 to 18 inches away from the plastic. Start spraying in a spot slightly to the side of the surface, then move the can across in a smooth motion, until completely covered. You may have to repeat.
Paint Wood
Prep: Sand with progressively fine sandpaper until the surface is smooth and remove dust with a rag if the wood is unfinished. If the wood is painted or sealed first clean the surface with a soapy water mix and roughen the surface with 150-grit sandpaper; then clean off the dust with a damp rag.
Painting Tip: Coat entire surface with a stain-blocking primer. Finish with high-quality latex or oil-based paint. Sand between coats with 320-grit sandpaper. For bare wood after priming, check to make sure any knots aren’t showing through.
We were recently interviewed by Realtor.com about what go-to items we paint to refresh it’s look and shared how we painted a rug on the wood floor. Check out the article 8 Things You’ve Never Considered Painting (but Should) here or click the image below.
Paint Glass
Prep: Clean with a glass cleaner.
Painting Tip: Check your local hobby store for paints formulated to use with glass. Some may require an undercoating or special surface application. Lighter paint colors will still allow some light to transmit through the glass.
Paint Upholstery
Prep: Vacuum and wash fabrics and let dry.
Painting Tip: Use a water-based paint specifically formulated for use with fabrics. You can check your local crafts store. My favorite paint for upholstery is Simply Spray Fabric Paint For Upholstery
What do you plan on painting around your home to give it new life? Let me know in the comment section below and don’t forget to post those transformation photos over on our Facebook Fan Page.
Happy Painting,
Happy Painting,
