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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Restoring Old Kerosene Lanterns

I have an old kerosene lantern that is rusty. I would like to restore it. How do I go about this?

Liz Robley
Minnesota
2003

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If it's rusty it's probably tin or thin steel of some sort other than copper or bronze. Give the old standby a try. naval jelly ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] . Stuff is great. Just follow the directions. A light 00 steel wool ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] afterwards should do the trick. Repaint with high temperature paint [affil links] or stove paint ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] . Good luck.

Sthpaw

Robert Barone
- So. Plainfield, New Jersey
2006

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July 12, 2008

I recently purchased reproduction tin lanterns with lovely antique brown rubbed finish. We use them for re-enactments 1730-1790. They began rusting after being outside for a week! How do I restore them...and then preserve them for outdoor use ?

Cecile Zani
tin finishing - Hopkinton, Mass.

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Hi, Cecile. You can try the rust converter ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] , then follow with a clearcoat.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
July 14, 2008