Aluminum painting

I have some unfinished Aluminum candle holders that I would like to paint. What type of paint would be best to use and how would I make it stick to the aluminum? It appears there are several steps which might need to be taken before you even paint aluminum. Thanks in advance for any information.

I want to try and help you. I apply protective coating to aluminum parts daily. I suggest that you remove whatever surface protection is on the items by sandblasting, or scuff sanding with 180-grit- sandpaper [affil link]. Leave a smooth finish and wipe clean with a non residue leaving solvent like aliphatic napatha (lighter fluid) or iso-alcohol. Next, spray cloat very lightly with some sort of epoxy primer. Let the coat dry and remember to apply lightly as you are doing this for a cosmetic look and you don't want runs or sags in the paint. Next after tacky apply paint in desired color. Don't get in a hurry or face the formentioned conditions. More thin coats are better than fewer thicker coats. Good luck and follow the directions on the back of the paint can.