Decorative painting of metal

Painting of metal under bronze

Imitation of precious metals is very common, because not everyone can afford to use them. Paints "under bronze", "silver" and "gold" were invented a long time ago, but until recently they were prepared on the basis of organic solvents. These greatly narrowed the scope of their possible use due to persistent unpleasant odor and intolerance to temperature changes.

Today in any construction shop you can find metallized paint on a water basis and acrylates. It is safe, easy to handle, not afraid of high temperatures and even protects the metal base of the structure from corrosion.

There are two options for how to paint "under bronze".Let's consider them step by step.

Method No. 1 Solid color:

1. The surface of the metal structure is cleaned of dirt and corrosion, degrease.
2. Apply a metal primer to increase adhesion and create an additional polymeric layer to protect against rust.
3. After complete drying of the primer with a uniform layer, we apply a metallized paint with a bronze shade in 2-3 layers, each time waiting for its complete drying.

Method №2 Ancient bronze

1. We prepare the metal in the same way as the previous method, we also apply a primer and an even layer of bronze paint.
2. All grooves are treated with a darker patina, often translucent so that the degree of darkening can be adjusted.
3. After complete drying of the previous layer with an almost dry brush, a glaze is made - it is necessary to walk lightly over all corners and protruding elements of the metal structure as if it were simply worn out from time to time.
4. After waiting for the drying of the next layer, fix the result with a clear varnish.

Following these instructions, you can "refine" any metal, and even other materials can be made "under bronze".

Metal painting "antique" by one's own hands

There is a mass of interior styles that are desirable for decorating with time traces: from classics to stim-punk. Real items that were in use for several decades, and even centuries ago, are very expensive, require special care, restoration and at home often create discomfort. The most successful option in this case is the imitation of antique metal.

Let's consider step by step how to achieve it:

1. Prepare the surface of the metal structure for painting: we clean from contaminants, corrosion, fat traces, grind.
2. On a dry and clean surface, apply a layer of metallized paint.
   

   Note! To imitate the old metal, paint is best applied with a brush - a slightly uneven coating will only play into our hands.

3. After complete drying of the paint, we apply an even layer of the crackel primer. It can also be found in most construction stores. This composition after drying forms a transparent polymer film on the product.
4. The last step is the upper crucular coating. It is something that gives the material the color of the old metal, touched by corrosion. After the layer dries, small cracks are formed on the surface.

Imitation of antique metal is possible both on metal products and on any other material. It is only necessary to choose the right primer for good adhesion.

A new word in imitation - blacksmith paints

For a long time it was not customary to use paint for forged products. It was believed that the painting negates the charm of handmade, hiding the texture of the metal.

With the advent of forge paints, the finish of forged elements became not only possible, but also opened many horizons for the realization of bold ideas. They allow you to achieve the desired effect, simulate another material, create a sense of antiquity, the visibility of patina. Thanks to modern blacksmith paints, you can realize any artistic idea.

In addition, like any metal paints, blacksmiths protect the structure from the harmful effects of the environment and prevent corrosion.

The only disadvantage of this type of finish is how much these colors cost. Looking in the prices of producers, it is easy to understand that the finishing of forged products, like forging itself, is not a cheap pleasure.

Can I paint metal at minus temperature?

Painting is traditionally performed at positive values ​​of the mercury column and the borderline permissible temperature experts call +5 degrees. But in life there are all kinds of situations that explain the urgency of finishing here and now. If you follow the recommendations, then the probability of successful staining of metal structures will be quite high. There are two main differences in painting at minus temperature from similar work in the heat:

1. Clean the surface from ice, condensation, dust and dirt. One mechanical cleaning here is indispensable - there will remain a thin layer of condensate, which will practically bring to nothing all further actions. Use a heat gun, gas or gasoline burner to dry the prepared surface.
2. The drying time of the paint can increase by 2-3 times, so it is necessary to separate the painted structure from external factors with a film and install a heat gun.

And the most important aspect of painting the metal in the cold is the choice of a suitable paint and varnish material. Best for these purposes, jelly-like alkyd enamels with high adhesion rates are suitable.