Home Garden

How to Paint a Doorknob With an Oil-Rubbed Finish

A variety of chemicals are applied to metals, namely brass, to achieve an oil-rubbed finish. This process results in a dark brown coloring with several gray and copper undertones and is used on several objects throughout the home, including faucets and light fixtures. Achieving this look on your metal doorknob is possible with oil-rubbed spray paint. The paint is available at hardware and home improvement stores and must be applied properly to ensure the product effectively adheres to your metal knobs.

Things You'll Need

  • All-purpose household cleaner
  • Plastic scrub brush
  • Paper towel
  • Painter's tape
  • Heavy paper
  • Fine-grit sandpaper
  • Tack cloth
  • Black spray paint
  • Oil-rubbed spray paint
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the doorknob with an all-purpose household cleaner and plastic scrub brush. Work the product into the metal knob to remove any dirt, grime and fingerprints. Wipe down the doorknob with a paper towel to remove any lingering dust before continuing.

    • 2

      Mask the area surrounding the doorknob with painter’s tape and heavy paper. Abrade the doorknob with fine-grit sandpaper. Work the sandpaper over the metal knob to roughen the surface, which gives the spray paint something to adhere to. Wipe away the sanding dust with a tack cloth.

    • 3

      Cover the doorknob with a light coating of black spray paint. Shake the spray paint can for approximately 30 seconds and holding the spray paint approximately 10 to 12 inches away from the doorknob, apply the paint in even, back-and-forth strokes.

    • 4

      Allow the layer of black paint, which acts as a primer, to dry for at least 24 hours before applying the oil-rubbed spray paint. Once again, shake the spray paint can and hold it approximately 10 to 12 inches away from the doorknob while applying the product.

    • 5

      Allow the final coating of the oil-rubbed spray paint to dry for at least 24 before removing the painter’s tape and heavy paper.