Step 1: Watch an Overview Video

Step 2: Gather Your Materials and Tools

Materials and Tools:

soap and water
sponge
scrubbing brush
fine sandpaper
sanding sponge
wire brush
metal file
rags
drop cloth
paintbrush
rust-preventative spray primer
spray paint

Step 3: Prep the Table

Before you can paint metal furniture, you have to get rid of the rust. Dirt, grease, oil and chemicals can keep paint from sticking to metal.

Clean surface thoroughly with soap and water.

With wire brush, scrape away loose rust and chipped or peeling paint.

Lightly sand glossy areas. A sanding sponge will mold itself into hard-to-reach crevices. Use metal file for built-up paint or rust.

Tip: Do not sand or file lead-based paint. To determine if old paint is lead-based, take chip to paint store

When the surface is clean, rinse it and let it dry.

Step 4: Apply a Primer

Apply a rust-preventative primer before painting.

Tip: Primers increase the adhesion of the top coat; they block stains, discoloration and irregularities for a smoother, more uniform paint finish.

Spray paint should be used only outdoors or in well-ventilated area. Use spray paint only when temperature is between 50 and 90 degrees F and humidity is below 85 percent to ensure proper drying.

Shake can vigorously for one minute after the mixing ball begins to rattle and shake often during use.

Turn table upside-down on drop cloth and prime under side, then turn right-side up to prime top.

Apply first coat of rust-preventative primer.

Hold spray nozzle 8 to 12 inches from surface and keep can parallel to surface, moving smoothly back and forth. To minimize drips, spray out of — not into — interior corners. Smooth drips immediately with paintbrush.

Let dry.

Step 5: Spray on the Top Coat

Apply two or more light coats a few minutes apart; multiple light coats work better than one heavy coat.

Spray on top coat of paint in same manner as primer.

Spray paint chairs in same or companion color as table.