Invest In Wrought Iron
You’ve discovered a wrought iron planter perfect for your home. Maybe this is an item a neighbor wants to give to a new home, something found curbside, or something from a flea market. You can imagine the place for it in your home. Yet, reality sets in knowing this treasure is also a project.
The larger the wrought iron piece in need of refurbishing the more time it will take to complete. Wrought iron planters, chairs, tables, or railings with intricate details will require patience to remove rust, sand, and paint. Something to keep in mind prior to taking on the project. Research and keen observation is key. If the wrought iron is in good to great condition, has good bones, then the time and energy will probably be worth it. If the piece may have historic value, consult a professional before you act.
A passion or interest in refurbishing or upcycling discarded items into something useful can also be necessary. Perhaps this is your own personal hobby, an interest inherited from family members such as your parents or an aunt, or sparked for some other reason. Embarking on refurbishing and restoring items may also be an activity your are exploring to see if it is something you wish to do more often. In any case, upcycling can be fun, pleasurable, and an affordable way to furnish your home and garden.
If hunting for wrought iron at flea markets, yard sales, or thrift stores, keep in mind a few guidelines. There is a plethora of other people in search of items too. Going early to a flea market or store can mean you find the item before someone else does. Bring a flashlight to inspect items before the sun is up and to look into boxes or under tables. Cash or digital payment can give you the upper hand when negotiating, as opposed to paying with a check. Closely inspect items, look for tags or stickers indicating the name of the manufacturer, and ask questions of the seller.
Safety
Safety must also be on mind when refurbishing wrought iron or other items. Wear a long-sleeved shirt. Use safety glasses to protect your eyes. Wear a mask to cover your nose and mouth. Work in a well-ventilated room or outdoors. Keep children and animals at a distance.
Cleaning
Cleaning the item well is also important. Grime and dirt can build up and will not allow paint to adhere. Use a rag and/or sponge with soap and warm water. A nylon-bristled scrub brush and a toothbrush are also effective if there are intricate details, narrow spaces, carvings, or reliefs to clean. Dry with a clean towel.
Sanding
Then use fine steel wool (#0000 steel wool) to remove additional buildup and dirt that the soap and water did not remove. This process may take some time and effort. Yet, clean wrought iron will be the best foundation for painting. Taking care to clean the item well will produce a professional result in the end.
Note: sandblasting can pit and damage metal. If the item is heavily rusted and you are unsure of how to remove the rust, then consult a professional. If the wrought iron is badly pitted or damaged, consider using auto body filler to fill dents and some holes. If the piece is heavily damaged or missing parts, then a professional can be hired to solder or weld on new brackets, flanges, hooks, et cetera.
Note: sandblasting can pit and damage metal. If the item is heavily rusted and you are unsure of how to remove the rust, then consult a professional. If the wrought iron is badly pitted or damaged, consider using auto body filler to fill dents and some holes. If the piece is heavily damaged or missing parts, then a professional can be hired to solder or weld on new brackets, flanges, hooks, et cetera.
Painting
Prime the wrought iron before painting. Spray a light coating of primer, undercoat, on the item. Then give time to fully dry. Primers are designed to protect metal against corrosion and ensure a smooth surface for painting. A primer is not the same as the top coat paint.
Research and consider various colors of paint for the wrought iron. Wrought iron can become pitted and rusty over years because of the elements. Beware this may not be the first and only time you refurbish the piece over time. Although the look and architecture of wrought iron can be worth it. A personal touch with a new color of paint, traditional or contemporary colors is up to you. Larger pieces of wrought iron, such as a table, often look best with neutral or muted colors. Smaller pieces, such as a small planter, can handle bold colors. The style or era from which the piece originates can also dictate the best color. Test paint colors on small areas of the wrought iron to get a better idea of which color to choose. Also, observe how each possible paint color looks over the day in various lighting. Lastly, apply the paint in thin layers to avoid paint bubbles or uneven areas.
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Painting Tip: Prepare the area with a large drop cloth. Wear plastic gloves. Carefully read the directions on the paint can.
Store your wrought iron pieces indoors during the winter. This will lengthen the life of the piece and make your hard work worth it. Wrought iron is an investment, yet giving something life and developing your own skills along the way is all part of the homeownership journey.
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