How do I paint door hardware?
So, we just bought a vacation house in the mountains and want to go for a rustic feel. All the door hardware is shiny brass from the 1990s. There are exterior doors, bathroom doors, closet doors, bedroom doors, etc. So, there are way too many knobs and locks to replace at this moment in time. I actually like the shape of the door handles, just not the color.I would like to paint them black. But I only want to do it once, meaning I don't want to make a mistake by selecting incorrect paint. Is there a black paint out there that you recommend for covering over shiny brass door knobs, hinges, plates, etc? Spray or paint with sponge or brush? I have the time, but need to save money. I just don't want to fleck off over time. Knobs get ALOT of wear and tear.Thank you in advance. Marjorie
All paint on brass will chip and peel. The best way to paint it is to use high quality Rustoleum brand spray paint but you will be touching up . In case you didn't know shiney brass is coming back, if that helps you stomach the color.
One thing you could do is use 00 steel wool and buff off the shine to give then a more worn look, dull finish.
Clean them well with Krudkutter, Rustoleum has a primer that may help keep the color after being sprayed with their metal paint.
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/repair/windows/an-amazingly-easy-way-to-refinish-door-hardware-1942539
https://heatherednest.com/knob-snob/
An Amazingly Easy Way to Refinish Door Hardware
I agree that you will have to knock down the "shiney" with sand paper for paint to stick better. I would use Rustoleum primer first to help with adhesion. Rustoleum has all kinds of different finishes you can choose from, even textured. Perhaps you will find a rustic look that you will like. I would use a spray type to avoid brush strokes. Good luck on your door hardware project. If you do have one that needs to be replaced, you can practice on it to find the look you want.
We got some tester brass doorknobs at a flea market for $1 and we are going to experiment and see what works. There are way too many replace, so we will be playing with different paints and glad you were able to help us narrow the selection. Thanks so much everyone!!
This is what I did. I went to an automobile parts store. I got automotive primer, and automotive paint in black, and used auto cleaner degreaser. I cleaned the knobs, hinges, etc with the cleaner degreaser. Rinse well. Let dry completely overnight. Put your handles on styrofoam to keep it up then spray the auto primer. Let dry completely. Then a few light coats of the auto paint. Worked great on knobs, handles, and hinges, but the plate in the side of the door had to be replaced, because of friction. They are only a few dollars at Home Depot or Lowes.
Auto paint is made for metal, so it worked great. Just take your time.