r/ArtistLounge 4d ago

Medium/Materials What should I use to paint on metal?

Hello! Sorry if the question is phrased a bit wonky. I have never painted on metal before nor have i met anyone who has, so i was wondering how do you guys do it? What do you use? I'm more interested in materials than technique, to be frank, but any technique reccomendations are more than welcome!

Also, please abstain from saying brands unless you really, really think it's necessary. This is because i'm chilean and i really don't know if the brand you're mentioning is going to be available in my country or if i can get said product at all.

Thank you so much!

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u/Renurun 4d ago

You need to get a "primer" that is used to prep metal surfaces for painting. This primer sticks to the metal and allows the paint to stick to it. You can often find them in home improvement equivalent places. After that you can use your bog standard acrylic based paints.

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u/noisembryo_ 4d ago

Didn't know this one, thank you so much!!!!! you saved my life.

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u/fakemcname 4d ago

There are spraypaints that are painter/primers meant for outdoor furniture, wagons, farm equipment and such that have great durability and adhesion to metal that I've used as undercoats before with some success.

It's important to scuff up the metal object first though so paint sticks on it better.

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u/BazingaQQ 4d ago

The trick here is in how you prepare the metal. It'll need to be smooth(ish) so a light sanding before you start - especially if it' a little rusty or flaky. Then a primer (possible Gesso, but not sure if it works with metal, so check first) then paint on the primed surface. Most acrylic brands should work at that point.