Use an “after wash” to remove any paint stripper residue. You can find it alongside the paint strippers in home improvement stores. Rinse the surface off with plain water afterwards, then dry it with a clean cloth.
Alternatively, you can use a special product made for removing rust; check your local home improvement store. Don’t leave any rust behind, as it will prevent the paint from adhering properly.
Not all dust masks are created equal. When purchasing your dust mask, make sure that it is rated for sanding dust.
You can use a higher grit than 400 on the second pass. If the 80- or 100- grit sandpaper created deep gouges, follow-up with 200- and 300- grit sandpaper before moving on to 400-grit. Sanding the metal will help give the primer something to stick to.
This is important because it will remove any sanding dust, which can create imperfections in the paint. Alternatively, you can wipe the metal down with a tack cloth. [7] X Research source
You can also use an oxidizing primer—this is specifically designed for metal and helps inhibit the growth of rust in the future.
You will remove the masking tape and paper after the paint and/or sealer has dried.
Outside would be the best option, but if you can’t work there, choose a large room with good ventilation and open windows. A respirator mask is a must. Do not paint if it is raining or humid outside, as this can affect the curing process.
If your can has a different set of application instructions, you should follow those instead. If you are working with a multi-sided object, let the first side dry to the touch before priming the other sides.
How long it takes for the primer to dry depends on the brand that you are using. In most cases, you’ll have to wait between 5 and 15 minutes.
Be patient and let the primer cure. If you don’t wait long enough, the paint and primer may peel. Double-check the instructions on the can for more specific curing times. Remember to apply light coats of primer. This will help it cure properly. If you slap on a thick coat, the primer may go tacky or just peel off.
Be sure to wipe the surface clean with a tack cloth afterwards. Double-check the masking tape after this. If the edges look frayed, peel it off and lay down new strips.
Because you already applied the primer, you can use any type of paint you want. It does not have to be labeled “for metal. " If the piece that you are painting will be kept outdoors, choose a paint that’s labeled “exterior” or “outdoor. " Spray paint will be the easiest to apply, but you can use brush-on paint too.
If you are using brush-on paint, use a flat, wide paintbrush may from synthetic fibers. Avoid soft camel hair or stiff boar bristle. If you’re using spray paint, shake the can for about 1 minute first, then hold it about 8 inches (20 cm) from the surface while spraying it. For a multi-sided object, start with the top and sides. Once the paint feels dry, move onto the bottom.
Double-check the paint can to see how long you should wait for the paint to dry between coats.
You don’t have to wait for the paint to cure between coats. In most cases, you’ll need at least 2 coats of paint.
Just because something feels dry to the touch does not mean that it’s dry underneath. Once paint has cured, you can be sure that it’s dry all the way through. If you want the unpainted metal to have the same finish as the painted metal, peel the masking tape off now.
Spray enamel just like you applied spray-on primer and spray-on paint. Brush enamel on using a synthetic-bristle brush and straight, overlapping strokes. Enamel comes in different finishes: matte, satin, and glossy. Pick the one you like best, but be aware that glossy finishes will show imperfections more.
Don’t use the piece before the enamel has finished curing, or it may turn tacky.
