Painting On Copper Sheet

If the sheet metal is smooth to the touch you will need to texturize it before painting.

Painting on copper sheet. For best practice to prepare an aluminum sheet for painting three steps are required that will provide the most assurance that both the paint will remain attached and the metal will be less prone to continue to form disturbing oxidative products on the painting. Do not use alkyd based paints or oil based primer. Keep these layers smooth and thin by rubbing on a small amount of the lead primer with the gloved palm of your hand. Some people use acrylic latex paint which is not designed specifically for galvanized metal so you will want to prime the surface before painting.

Paints that are made for galvanized surfaces will require less prep work and will adhere better than other kinds of paint. Priming is traditional when painting on copper plate. There are several ways to clean copper before painting. The best way to clean copper before application of organic coatings is the one that works for you.

The cause of paint adhesion failures on copper is due to delamination of the oxide film from the metal. Create a rough surface on the sheet metal. In 5 minutes i will show you how to make a sample piece plus a beautiful pair of earrings. These oxides must be removed before painting.

To properly prepare new metal surfaces use mineral spirits to remove grease and apply a rust inhibitive primer before painting. Learn how to use a simple flame to bring amazing color to copper. Texturize the surface of the sheet metal. If painting light to moderately used indoor metal surfaces think wall sconces bed frames or guest room night tables go with water based acrylic paint a cheaper 15 to 40 per gallon.

As with all metal painting projects proper preparation makes the difference between a quality paint job and how well the newly painted item will stand up to age and weathering especially when the metal is used outdoors. For painted surfaces that are in sound condition remove dust with a clean dry cloth de gloss the surface with light sanding and wipe with mineral spirits to ensure good adhesion. Tim spillane explains the many artistic benefits of painting on sheet copper as a surface for his paintings.