How to paint hardware (the right way!)

I’ve been working on some MAjor projects and some little ones around the house and have noticed that a lot of my hardware on various pieces around my house wasn’t looking so great…. well most of it was having issues. Not cool. I did a little research and found out the RIGHT way to paint hardware! Let’s be honest, when I’m working on a piece of furniture and I’ve spent hours, days, weeks, whatever, cleaning – sanding – priming – painting –  the piece… I just wanna spray that hardware and put it back on! No questions asked. Well, my friends, that doesn’t always cut it. You see, if I would’ve done it right the-FIRST-time I wouldn’t be redoing it now… Follow me?

Anyway, here’s what you SHOULD do! I promise you, it’s better to not be lazy in the first place but really, laziness wins sometimes when it comes to little things like this.. Sad but true!

First, remove your hardware. These are some around the house that I originally did with ORB (Oil Rubbed Bronze – my fave!) and sadly enough, it had to be redone. I took the hardware off of my tv console and my living room end table and my kitchen cabinet which I can’t wait to show you!

Next, clean your hardware really well. Use Krud Kutter, 409, or any kind of degreaser/cleanser. I used 409 and Lysol wipes because that is what I had on hand. Any good cleaner will work.

When they’re dry, use Kilz spray primer to prime all sides of the hardware. Make sure you shake your can REALLY REALLY well for 3-5 minutes before you spray your hardware or it will leave a little annoying gritty texture on your hardware. YUCK! Feels yucky and looks yucky! No bueno!

Once your hardware is completely dry, grab your favorite spray paint (most people use metallic finishes for hardware but you can get creative and use different colors to customize your piece!) I love oil rubbed bronze and gold. I usually use one of the two.

When the paint dries, you can choose to spray your hardware with a clear laquer to make it more scratch resistant and make your paint job last even longer. It is really worth the extra step.

I really like this stuff! Works great, dries fast and holds up well!

Finally, reattach your hardware.

Here’s a little sneak peek of my recent cabinet makeover. I’m doing a few finishing touches in the kitchen before I show you the reveal but to say I am LOVING it is a huge understatement. 🙂

I can assure you that these steps will help your hardware look newer, much longer! You can use these tips for painting pretty much any surface. Prep, Prime, Paint, Poly!  That’s my story and I’m stickin’ to it!

I seriously canNOT WAIT to show you some of the other fun things I’ve been up to! I have got the

DIY bug right now and I’ve been working my magic all over my house! 🙂