How to Make Paint Adhere to Chrome

Chrome is usually made by adding a chromium plating treatment to an underlying metal, such as steel. It is used to create a highly reflective, smooth, aesthetically appealing surface that is also highly resistant to corrosion and rust. These properties also make it very difficult to paint over, whether with brush paint or spray paint. By creating a pitted, textured surface, you can apply paint and have it stick, while retaining some of the underlying shine of the chrome.

Instructions

- 1
  Sand your chrome surface with a fine-grit sandpaper, using a power sander. Move the sander in a crosshatch fashion to make sure the grain isn't all in one direction. Dust off the excess powder and clean the area with thinner.
- 2
  Spray the chrome with spray etching; a few light coats will do. Let this etching sit for a few minutes, then spray the chrome with a urethane primer, about the same number of coats. Allow this to set for a few hours.
- 3
  Use the sander on the chrome, this time with a medium-grit sandpaper. Use the same crosshatching technique as before, however, don't use thinner to clean off the chrome. Dust thoroughly, then use a spray sealer to bind to the scratches ground into the chrome. Use a few layers of auto spray paint on the chrome to finish the job.

What Kind of Foam Brush and Rollers Do I Need to Use With Two-Part Polyurethane Paints?

The Best Paint for Outside Concrete Table

Painting