When metallic hinges become old and dingy, many people choose to liven them up with a fresh coat of paint. Most of the time, this can be accomplished with a quick coat of spray primer and paint. However, if you're planning to paint brass hinges, there are a few things you need to know before you get started. Unlike most metallic surfaces, brass requires a specific preparation process to avoid peeling and flaking. Many amateur do-it-yourselfers are surprised to learn that the wrong approach to preparing brass for paint can result in disappointing and even dangerous results.
Step 1
Use a screwdriver to remove the brass hinges.
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Step 2
Spread out newspapers on either the floor or a table.
Step 3
Place the brass hinges on the newspapers. Use mineral spirits to clean the brass hinges thoroughly. Allow about ten minutes for the mineral spirits to evaporate completely before proceeding.
Step 4
Use PCB etch to rough up the brass hinges to promote adhesion. Follow the application instructions that came with the particular type of PCB etch you purchased.
Step 5
Rinse the brass hinges thoroughly with water.
Step 6
Apply a light coat of oil-based spray primer to the brass hinges. Allow an hour for the brass hinges to dry.
Step 7
Flip the brass hinges over and apply a light coat of oil-based spray primer to the second side. Allow an hour for the brass hinges to dry.
Step 8
Repeat steps 6 and 7, except use oil-based spray paint instead of primer.
Step 9
Allow an hour for the brass hinges to dry. Add another coat if necessary.