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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.

Ken Pettlon
- Maryville, Missouri, USA

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 links]. 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.

Alexander Duncan
USAF - Dover, DE, USA