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How to Refinish an Old Cast Iron Kitchen Sink

Old cast iron sinks can be collector's items, sometimes selling for hundreds of dollars at antique stores. If you have an old cast iron sink that has seen better days, don't throw it out without first trying to refinish it. You could end up with a brand-new looking sink for a fraction of the cost of replacing it.

Things You'll Need

  • Mild non-abrasive cleaner
  • Sandpaper
  • Palm sander
  • Paint brush
  • Epoxy primer
  • Acrylic topcoat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the sink with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner like Softscrub or Bon Ami. For tough stains generously apply the cleaner directly on the stains. Allow the cleaner to sit overnight and wipe it out. Evaluate the sink. If the stains are gone and there are no other visible imperfections, you can choose to leave the sink as it is and skip the remaining steps.

    • 2

      Sand the sink using a palm sander and medium-grit sandpaper. A palm sander can be purchased at any home improvement store. Use a smooth circular motion to sand the entire sink. Wipe away any sanding dust with a damp rag.

    • 3

      Apply the epoxy primer using a good quality paint brush. Use a smooth even stroke with enough paint to avoid brush marks but not so much paint that it puddles in the sink. Avoid feathering at the end of the brush stroke to prevent visible paint marks. Allow the primer to dry completely.

    • 4

      Paint on an acrylic topcoat using a paint brush. Use the same technique that you used to apply the primer, avoiding visible brush strokes. Allow the topcoat to dry completely.

    • 5

      Wait three to five days before filling the sink with water. For regular cleaning and maintenance, use a non-abrasive cleaner and soft rags.