Inspired by a post about a chrome silver lamp, I went out and purchased a $5 ceramic lamp on craigslist, but I would really love for it to have that chrome look. I know there are shiny silver spray paints you can buy, but does any one know how to paint ceramic? Does paint take well or chip off? Is a primer needed? Any suggestions on best brands of paints to use? I think this lamp would look amazing with a new shade and a coat of silver! Thanks everyone!
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I'd start with a spray on primer. One to two coats should work. Make sure you allow enough time for drying between the coats. Then spray on the final metallic coat. Good luck!
view Doris loves art!'s profile
Use Zinsser 123 spray primer. It really sticks to shiny surfaces very well, and paint sticks to it. Then apply a chrome paint spray of your choice.
view Rainybeth's profile
I'd also recommend a light sanding of the ceramic surface before you spray on the primer.
Last year I purchased two very ugly brass lamps at a thrift store, sanded them a little, sprayed them with primer and then sprayed them with a high gloss black paint. They look great now. I'd also suggest practicing your technique on something similar (maybe a piggy bank or ceramic vase?) so that when you go to paint your lamp you are confident with your methods.
Good luck! I think it will turn out great!
view wendy-rae's profile
I've tried a few different brands of silver spray paint from Home Depot and no matter the color of the bottle top, they are all a matte silver nickel finish- not chrome at all. I'd love to see a finished picture of this project if you get the paint right! Good luck!
view Low Emissions's profile