Anyone who has ever tried to paint metal with a brush will tell you that it is difficult to apply a smooth-looking coat of paint free of unattractive brush marks. Because metal is so smooth, it can be unforgiving to do-it-yourselfers with shaky hands. Even some professionals have trouble painting metal with a brush and opt instead to use spray rigs. However, if you plan to paint metal with a brush, there are a few techniques you can employ that will give you a much better chance at a sharp, flawless-looking finish coat.
Step 1
Clean the metal thoroughly with a rag dampened with mineral spirits. Allow five to 10 minutes for the mineral spirits to evaporate.
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Step 2
Pour oil-based paint into a 5-gallon bucket or a painter's pail. Fill the pail only halfway.
Step 3
Add 1 oz. mineral spirits to the paint to dilute it and promote a smoother-looking application. Mix the mineral spirits and the oil-based paint with a wooden stir stick. Add more mineral spirits if the paint still appears too thick. Add more paint if you dilute the mixture too much.
Step 4
Dip only the tip of a paintbrush into the paint. Use the paintbrush to apply the paint to the metal surface. Use only slight pressure.
Step 5
Paint from left to right. Apply only a light coat. Do not try to completely cover the metal on the first coat.
Step 6
Allow about one hour for the metal to dry. Apply a second light coat just as you did before. Allow another hour for the metal to dry. Continue applying light coats until the metal is completely covered.