Painting Wood Curtain Rods

Remove the curtain rod from the wall, if necessary.

Sand the surfaces of the curtain rod lightly with medium-grit sandpaper if the rod has paint on it. Scuff the surface lightly with the sandpaper to help the paint adhere better. If the rod isn't painted, sanding isn't necessary.

Wipe the curtain rod surface thoroughly with a tack cloth to remove sawdust.

Place the curtain rod on the newspaper or cardboard to protect work surfaces from overspray.

Shake the primer can vigorously until you hear the ball inside the paint can begin to rattle -- this indicates that the paint is mixed sufficiently.

Hold the primer spray can about 10 to 16 inches away from the curtain rod and spray the entire surface of the rod evenly. Shake periodically as you spray until you coat the entire surface with the primer. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly.

Shake the paint can vigorously in the same fashion as you shook the primer. Hold the can the same distance away from the curtain rod and spray evenly to coat the rod with paint.

Allow the paint to dry for about five minutes, then apply a second coat.

Allow the paint to dry for about 24 hours, then remount the curtain rod above the window.