Question: Best Tint for Galvanized Duct

[Lunajammer]

I'm making a steampunk rocket lamp using metal duct pipe. I want to give the metal a warm tint but still be able to see the metal texture. I don't want to use opaque spray paints. Any suggestions? Would wood stain work? Any thoughts about prepping? Anyone do this?

 

[Duncanator]

Yes, wood stain can work. I've done that before.

Wipe it into the creases and folds, then wipe away what you don't want - and let it dry. You'll want to use a sealer coat after it dries to keep it from rubbing off, since the metal is a non-porous material.

You could also use thinned latex paint the same way.

 

[Lunajammer]

Hmm. Thinned latex, never considered that. Thanks Duncan for your insights and for offering your own experience.

 

[Rogviler]

Shoe polish is great for that sort of thing as well (the kind that comes in a bottle with a sponge applicator, not the paste). You can thin it with water to get it more translucent. Only problem is you're limited to brown or black, though they can be mixed.

 

[Lunajammer]

Shoe polish is great for that sort of thing as well

Thanks Rog. Brown might be enough if I can thin it enough for only a warm tint. Just wondering if water based coloring will adhere smoothly or pool up? Guess I'll just have to experiment.