Quick Spray-on Rust DIY!

@JagCagDesign
by @JagCagDesign
4 Materials
$5
1 Hour
Easy

For this tutorial, I'm excited to show you another way to rust metal! This method is great for large steel/metal objects that you cannot soak (see my other metal rusting tutorial for smaller items). I used it forthese AWESOME steel planter boxes from DIYCartel. They come in raw steel and are gorgeous as is... but you know me... I like everything rusted to perfection! Here's a picture of the "after", so you can see what I mean! icon

These planter boxes come in a flat box, delivered right to your door, and are so easy to assemble:

Once I had it all put together, I started mixing my rust concoction. I used 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup peroxide, and 1-2 tbsp. salt.

I put all of this in a spray bottle, and shook it up really good to dissolve the salt.

Then, I sprayed the first coat on my planter. I sprayed it on heavily, so that I could see the liquid running down the side of the planter.

As soon as you spray it on, you can see the rust starting to form:

Let the first coat dry thoroughly, and then if you want more rust, you can coat it again. I did about three coats for this effect:

You can do as many coats as you want. I also found that if you wet the piece down once you have put on the first coat, water will help speed the rusting process as well. We ended up putting three of these rusted beauties along the walkway to our front porch:

Here is what it looked like before.... wow, what a difference!

I hope you will give this method a try on metal pieces you have, and be sure to check out these DIYCartel planters. This store also has shelf brackets and pipe decor - I love everything they sell! We get so many compliments on them!

Thanks for tuning in to this tutorial. Happy rusting!!


Xo,

Jamey


P.S. If you like this project, please share. I'd also love it if you would give me a follow on Instagram and/or Facebook (@jagcagdesign). I have a video tutorial of this same project on my Instagram Reel page, if you want to see it in action!

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  • Sheryl Sheryl on Jun 14, 2023

    I'm intrigued by your use of the free weights. I had several left ober when the weight bench lost its charm and have wondered how to repurpose them. Problem solved!

  • Brad Brad on Jun 14, 2023

    Will that keep me and kids from peeing on the porch?

  • Janine Miller Janine Miller on Jun 14, 2023

    Love how these look. Great work. Will these planters need to be taken inside during winter weather?


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  • Diane Diane on Jun 18, 2023

    I love this idea. I’ve always loved the color of rust, just not on my car. 😉

  • Kristi Kristi on Jun 21, 2023

    Be careful mixing those 2 together. . It's paracetic acid!

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