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Please advise dyi solution for preventing metal kitchen cabinet knob corrosion

After 10 years, the kitchen cabinet knobs were awfully grimy and exhibiting some slight corrosion. They came from Restoration Hardware and look like pewter, but aren't "scratchably" soft. We washed and dried them, I used fine steel wool, too. But what can I use to prevent future corrosion...with emphasis on kitchen safe qualities and durability? I have a clear acrylic artists spray, clear wood varnishes, etc. at home. But I'm guessing they're not the solution I need.

Many many thanks, in advance.

Glenn Michaels
home owner with issue - Phoenix, Arizona, USA
October 5, 2008

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First of two simultaneous responses --

Since you want to keep these knobs and are looking for a DYI fix you are on the right track. Use of a lacquer (polymer type) to finish the knobs will be your best bet. The thicker the lacquer film, the greater the protection, therefore spray lacquer would need to be coated repeatedly to build up thickness (too much at once = drips/runs).

Gene Packman
process supplier - Great Neck, New York
October 15, 2008

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Second of two simultaneous responses --

Try baked epoxy based paints(special clearcoat for hardware) -- good brand is Duralit RE 1516 (Hedda Lorenz OHG, Purkersdorf, Austria). Hope it helps and good luck!

Goran Budija
- Cerovski vrh Croatia
October 16, 2008