I Have A Putnam Dye Cabinet That Has Some Areas With Rust On It....

[global1]

I would like to learn from experienced antiquer's how to deal with taking off the rust without destroying the painted surface beneath the rust. Also, how do I make that colorful painted surface pop?

Any help would be appreciated.

[tech3149]

1. Phosphoric acid worked well for me regarding the rust

You have to coat the rusted area fairly well until the rust turns a dull dark grey. Rinse and dry well and paint as soon as possible. To bring out the color of the original paint I would go with a heavily thinned clear coat.

[global1]

2. I Don't Know If I Understand....

Will the phosphoric acid take care of the rust without harming the painted graphics below?

You say rinse and dry well and paint as soon as possible.

Do you mean - rinse and dry both the rusted area and the paint beneath? Or - Are you saying after rinsing the rust off after the application of the acid - that I should paint the cabinet? Not sure I'm understanding what you mean.

[ret5hd]

3. Can you post a pic of the cabinet/affected areas?

[tech3149]

4. Yes it will attack the rust but not the paint

When you wash it off you have to wash the entire piece. If you're not repainting the rusted areas with color you might be able to just clear coat the rusted areas but if you repaint the entire piece with clear coat it will brighten the old finish.

[TeamPooka]

5. I think I saw one like that sold at Orrills Auction house recently. Was that you who bought it?

[global1]

6. Nope - I Bought Mine From An Estate Sale In Illinois...nt