
plating, anodizing, & finishing Q&As since 1989
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Ugly blue paint on brass bed
2006
Will somebody PLEASE tell me how to get the ugliest blue you've ever seen from a brass bed? It was inherited from my husband's side of the family and he now wants to throw it away. If anybody can help, I would truly appreciate it.
Thank you,
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Indeed, the stuff from the other side of the family is always ugly, isn't it? I would think it can be painted any color of your preference on top of the existing paint (unless knowing that the blue is hidden underneath would drive you crazy). Solvents like mineral spirits [adv: item on eBay & Amazon] can remove many paints without damaging brass. I'd try that first before getting involved with dangerous methylene chloride strippers. But before doing anything, I'd check it with a magnet. If it's magnetic it's plated brass and the plating is probably is not in good shape, which may be why it was painted.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2006
I recently purchased a brass bed at an antique store, which has been painted white. I don't know how to tell through the paint or scratches in the paint if this is brass or brass-plated. At any rate, I'd like to strip off the paint and am unsure how to safely do this without causing damage. Could you please tell me?
Sandy Hughes
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