Do you have a birdcage? Is it looking pretty shabby, or is it in good condition? If the answer is yes, then this article will help you. In the previous article we discussed how to paint a birdcage. Now we are going to show you how to repaint an old birdcage and make it look new again. Let’s get started.
Necessary supplies:
- Paint
- Sandpaper
- Brushes
- Spray paint
- Old birdcage
How to Repaint An Old Birdcage? Step by step guidelines
1. Remove old paint from birdcage:
First of all, remove any old paint that may be on your birdcage. You can use sandpaper if necessary. It is best to do this before painting because once the cage is painted, you cannot easily remove the paint. Once you are done with removing the old paint, take out the screws that hold the bars together.
2. Prepare the surface for painting:
Next, prepare the surface of the birdcage for painting. This means you need to clean up any rust, dirt, etc. Make sure there are no sharp edges or rough surfaces. Use sandpaper to smooth down any rough spots.
3. Apply primer:
Next, apply a coat of primer over the entire surface of the birdcages. The primer should cover the whole surface evenly. Wait about 30 minutes after applying the primer so that the primer has time to dry.
4. Apply base color:
After waiting for the primer to dry, apply a coat of base color. Base color is the first layer of color that covers the cage. It is usually light gray or white. When choosing colors, think about what kind of birds would live in the cage. For example, if you want to paint a bluebird cage, choose a bright blue color.
5. Add highlights:
After the base color dries completely, add some highlights. A highlight is a small area of color that stands out against the background. Think about adding a few dark red or orange accents here and there.
6. Add details:
Now, add some details. Details are smaller than highlights, but they still stand out. They include things like the shape of the bars, the design of the birdcage, etc.
7. Add accent colors:
Finally, add some accent colors. Accent colors are those colors that go well with the main color of the birdcage. In my case, I chose a yellowish-green color.
8. Finish:
Once everything is dry, you can start putting back the screws. Put them back one at a time until you reach the top of the birdcage, where the top bar meets the sidebars. Then put the last screw back.
Maintenance of old repaint birdcage:
- Keep the birdcage away from direct sunlight. Sunlight causes fading of the paint.
- Do not let the birdcage sit in water. Water makes the paint peel off.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, and turpentine. These chemicals damage the paint.
- Never leave the birdcage outside during the winter months. Cold weather damages the paint.
- Clean the birdcage regularly. Dust collects on the bottom of the birdcage and prevents proper ventilation.
How long does it take to finish painting an old birdcage?
It depends on how many coats of paint you decide to use. If you only have two coats, it will probably take less than an hour. However, if you plan to use four or more coats, it could take much longer depending on the size of the birdcage you are painting.
What type of paint should I use?
Any good-quality acrylic latex paint will work fine. Acrylic paints are easy to use and come in different types of finishes. You may also consider using enamel paint. Enamel paint comes in several finishes, including flat, satin, gloss, semi-gloss, matte, and others.
Is it safe to use spray paint on an old birdcage?
Yes, it is perfectly safe. Spray paint is made up of very thin layers of paint, which means it doesn’t harm the wood. On the other hand, spray paint is very fast. So if you don’t have enough time to complete your project, then this might be the best option for you.
Can I use oil-based paint on an old birdcage?
Yes, you can use any kind of oil-based paint. Oil-based paints are thicker than latex paints so they require more preparation before applying. But once applied, it provides excellent protection against moisture and UV rays.
In conclusion:
Birdcage makes your home more attractive and comfortable. It’s a great addition to any house. But if it is getting old, you need to give it a new look. Painting an old birdcage is a simple process. All you need is a little bit of patience and practice. And once you get used to it, you’ll find yourself doing it again and again. Good luck!
