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How do you paint brass?

I want to paint some high polished brass lamps for my home, but do not know what type of preparations are needed or what type of paint can be used or anything. I need basic step by step instructions for this project. I am simply a hobbyist who would like to keep the shape of the lamps, but am trying to save money by reusing these lamps instead of purchasing new lamps. Can anyone help me? There are many other pieces of brass that I would like to paint including a mirror frame and lots of pots for plants.

Debra A. Work
hobbyist - El Dorado, Kansas, USA
2004

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2004

Can't tell if you are wanting to clear coat the lamps or simply paint them colors. If you want to paint them with colors, I have had some luck using a zinc-based cold galvanizing compound Cold Galvanizing Compound / Zinc Rich Paint; I have built a couple of items from polished brass tubing, then used this primer, and successfully finished them off with black wrinkle-paint (krylon.) Hope this helps.

Many brass items are clear-coated after polishing, to retain the luster & prevent corrosion/tarnish. If there are obvious signs of this being the case, you need to either strip the clear coat off chemically or sand it off before priming.

Sean Averill
amateur hobby - Des Moines, Iowa, USA