Painting On Copper Sheet

Priming is traditional when painting on copper plate.

Painting on copper sheet.

Analyze the surface of the sheet metal. Paints that are made for galvanized surfaces will require less prep work and will adhere better than other kinds of paint. There are several ways to clean copper before painting. If painting light to moderately used indoor metal surfaces think wall sconces bed frames or guest room night tables go with water based acrylic paint a cheaper 15 to 40 per gallon.

Create a rough surface on the sheet metal. For painted surfaces that are in sound condition remove dust with a clean dry cloth de gloss the surface with light sanding and wipe with mineral spirits to ensure good adhesion. Keep these layers smooth and thin by rubbing on a small amount of the lead primer with the gloved palm of your hand. Texturize the surface of the sheet metal.

Learn how to use a simple flame to bring amazing color to copper. Do not use alkyd based paints or oil based primer. The cause of paint adhesion failures on copper is due to delamination of the oxide film from the metal. Tim spillane explains the many artistic benefits of painting on sheet copper as a surface for his paintings.

To do this apply two coats of very thin lead based oil primer to the surface. These oxides must be removed before painting. If the sheet metal is smooth to the touch you will need to texturize it before painting. As with all metal painting projects proper preparation makes the difference between a quality paint job and how well the newly painted item will stand up to age and weathering especially when the metal is used outdoors.

Acrylic metal paints are available for paint on application or in spray cans which can shorten painting time significantly. Some people use acrylic latex paint which is not designed specifically for galvanized metal so you will want to prime the surface before painting. For best practice to prepare an aluminum sheet for painting three steps are required that will provide the most assurance that both the paint will remain attached and the metal will be less prone to continue to form disturbing oxidative products on the painting.