Painting an old wrought iron candelabrum
by
Mimi
+3
We have a used wrought iron candelabrum made to order by a blacksmith in Switzerland about 70 - 80 years ago. We didn't like the gold paint that someone had added to it, so we removed it, more or less, and want to make it black again, like the original wrought iron.
Can we just spray paint it with a type of paint that is good for metal? Will it be rust proof once it is painted?
Right now, there are slight traces of rust on the bottom part, and we certainly don't want that to spread -- especially if that can happen underneath a coat of black paint, so that we would not even be aware what is happening. We're not sure: Once iron starts to rust, will the rust spread even if the metal is not damp?
Thank you for your help.
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http://www.krylon.com/how-to/faqs/product/can-i-spray-paint-over-rust.jsp
Sand the rust places, and anywhere there is any loose paint on the rest of the candelabrum. Use Rustoleum spray paint. It comes in many assorted metal colors - including a paint that gives a hammered look.
No, rust won't spread if it's not damp. I think the best way to clean it up is to use fine steel wool and rub the rust off. Then I probably would not spray paint it... instead, try mineral oil, it would give the wrought iron a prettier finish. To see how I did that, you can read this post I wrote about refinishing this antique hardware: http://simpledecoratingtips.com/2016/04/20/restoring-antique-hardware/
Wrap paper towels around the rusted parts and pour Coke over the towels. Keep the towels on for a few hours, then remove and sand the entire piece. Then spray with Rustoleum flat black or even a high temp black like you would use on a grill. You could test spray to see which one matches the best.
We refurbished a black iron exterior railing, doing the prep was important because of the outdoor exposue.
At the hardware or paint store they readily have rust inhibiting primers to use after cleaning as well as paints in both spray and can varieties.
https://www.familyhandyman.com/painting/restore-metal-before-painting/view-all/
soak in vinegar and rub the rust off. Then neutralize the vinegar with baking soda. Rust oleum is the best out there for treating your vintage candelabra. But, in painting it, you may diminish its value, its patina. Check with a specialist.