Rawlins Paints Blog Industrial Paint Tips, Guidelines & DIY Articles
What if I told you that with just a can of paint, you could transform any space, both inside and out, into a haven of luxury? Imagine the gleam of metal on your walls, the sheen on your furniture, or the shimmering facade of your building. Painting walls with metallic paint holds the power to create environments that are both striking and sophisticated, regardless of the setting.
In this post, we’ll explore the multifaceted world of metallic paints, focusing on how you can use them for both DIY projects and commercial applications. From selecting the perfect shade to mastering the application techniques for interior and exterior use, you’ll find everything you need to know to elevate any space with a metallic touch. By the end of this read, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and inspiration to make your next project—whether at home or at work—shine with a luxurious finish.
Why Metallic Paints? The Dual Appeal for DIY and Commercial Spaces
Metallic paints are no longer confined to art studios or luxury homes. Today, they’re being embraced by DIY enthusiasts and commercial designers alike for their versatility and ability to add a touch of elegance to any project. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to refresh a room, a business owner wanting to make a lasting impression, or a contractor aiming to offer your clients something special, metallic paints offer a dynamic solution.
So, why choose metallic paints for your project? The answer lies in their ability to create a visual impact that goes beyond colour. These paints interact with light in a way that flat paints cannot. They add depth, dimension, and a sense of movement to the surfaces they adorn. They’re perfect for making a bold statement, yet they can also add a subtle layer of sophistication when used in moderation.
For the DIYer, metallic paints offer an accessible way to add a professional touch to home improvement projects. For commercial spaces, they can be the key to creating an environment that is both memorable and inviting—think high-end restaurants, boutique hotels, stylish office spaces, and luxury retail.
The Versatility of Metallic Paints for Walls: Interior and Exterior Use
Metallic paints at Rawlins are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for a wide range of applications both indoors and outdoors. Inside, they can transform walls and ceilings, furniture and decorative accessories, while outside, they can give facades, doors, and outdoor fixtures a polished, luxurious look.
Interior Applications
In the world of interiors, painting walls with metallic paints are often used to create feature walls that draw the eye and anchor a room. A gold or silver wall in a living room, for example, can serve as the perfect backdrop for artwork or a statement piece of furniture. Metallic paints can also be used on ceilings to add an unexpected touch of glamour—imagine lying in bed at night, looking up at a ceiling that glimmers softly in the light of a bedside lamp.
Beyond walls and ceilings, metallic paints are a fantastic choice for furniture makeovers. A simple wooden dresser can be transformed into a centrepiece with a few coats of metallic paint, giving it a whole new lease on life. Even small decorative accessories, like picture frames, mirrors, or lamps, can be given a luxurious upgrade with a metallic finish.
Exterior Applications
While metallic paints are often associated with interiors, they’re just as effective in outdoor settings. Facades, front doors, railings, and outdoor furniture can all benefit from a metallic finish. A silver or copper façade, for example, can make a building stand out on a busy street, while a metallic-painted front door can offer a warm, inviting entrance that reflects the style and personality of the occupants.
Outdoor fixtures, such as garden sculptures, planters, or light fixtures, can also be enhanced with metallic paints, adding a touch of sophistication to your outdoor spaces. The durability of modern metallic paints means they can withstand the elements, ensuring your exterior surfaces remain beautiful for years to come.
Colour Options: Painting Walls with Metallic Paint
When it comes to metallic paints, the colour options are nearly endless. Whether you’re drawn to the classic appeal of traditional metals or the contemporary allure of modern finishes, there’s a metallic shade that’s perfect for your project.
Gold
Gold metallic paint is the epitome of luxury. It’s a classic choice for adding a sense of grandeur to both interiors and exteriors. Inside, a gold feature wall can make a living room feel like a royal chamber, while outside, a gold-painted front door can create a striking first impression. Gold pairs beautifully with deep, rich colours like emerald green, navy blue, and burgundy, adding warmth and opulence to any space.
Silver
Silver is sleek, modern, and versatile. It’s an excellent choice for both DIY and commercial projects where a cool, refined look is desired. Silver metallic paint works well in contemporary interiors, where it can be used to create a minimalist yet luxurious atmosphere. For exteriors, silver can be used on facades, metal railings, or even garden sculptures to add a polished, sophisticated finish.
Bronze
Bronze offers a warm, earthy richness. It makes a great choice for spaces that aim to feel both luxurious and inviting. It’s particularly well-suited for use in traditional interiors, where it can complement natural materials like wood and stone. On exteriors, bronze metallic paint can give railings, gates, and other outdoor fixtures a timeless, elegant look. Use it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Copper
Copper is bold, contemporary, and full of character. Its warm, reddish undertones make it a striking choice for feature walls, interior and exterior furniture, and decorative accents. Copper metallic paint is perfect for creating statement pieces—whether it’s a stunning accent wall in a living room or a striking façade that makes a building stand out. Outdoors, copper can be used to highlight architectural details or to add a modern twist to traditional fixtures.
Metallic Blacks and Greys
For those who prefer a more subdued, industrial look, metallic blacks and greys offer a sophisticated, modern alternative. These shades are perfect for adding depth and texture to walls, furniture, and even entire rooms. They’re particularly effective in commercial spaces like offices, restaurants, or retail stores, where they can create a chic, contemporary atmosphere.
RAL Pearl Shades
A special collection within the RAL colour system, known for its metallic and pearlescent finishes. These shades are characterised by their lustrous, shimmering appearance, which is achieved through the addition of fine metallic pigments. The Pearl Shades range is often used in high-end applications where a sophisticated, reflective finish is desired, such as in automotive design, architectural projects, and premium consumer goods. The colours in this range are designed to catch light in unique ways, adding depth and a subtle iridescence to surfaces. Pearlescent shades are available in both RAL Classic and RAL Effect at Rawlins Paints.
Paints with Metallic shades available:
Rust-Oleum CombiColor Original (direct to metal)
Rust-Oleum 7500 Alkythane (Metal topcoat)
HMG Metallic Paint range
Application Techniques: Achieving a Professional Finish
Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or working on a commercial space, the key to a successful metallic paint or gilding job lies in the application. These finishes require a bit more care and attention than standard paints, but with the right techniques, you can achieve a finish that looks professionally done.
Preparation
Before you start painting or gilding, it’s crucial to properly prepare the surface. Metallic paints tend to highlight imperfections, so make sure to sand down any rough spots and clean the surface thoroughly. For exteriors, this might involve power washing and repairing any damage to ensure the surface is smooth and ready to receive the paint or gilding.
Priming
Applying a primer is essential, especially for metallic paints. A good primer will help the paint adhere better and ensure a more even finish. For darker metallic shades, consider using a tinted primer that matches the base colour of the paint. This will help achieve a richer, more uniform finish.
Gilding Preparation
Gilding requires a different preparation process. The surface must be completely smooth, clean, and sealed to ensure the metal leaf adheres properly. Applying a base coat, often referred to as “size,” is necessary to make the surface sticky enough for the leaf to adhere. The size must be allowed to become tacky, which can take from 15 minutes to an hour depending on the product and humidity.
Applying the Paint
The tools you use can make a big difference in the final outcome. Brushes are best for small areas and detailed work but can leave marks if not applied carefully. Rollers provide a smoother finish on large surfaces but opt for a high-density foam roller to avoid visible roller marks. Spray painting offers the most even finish and is ideal for furniture and detailed work, but it requires more preparation, including masking and ensuring proper ventilation, especially for exteriors.
Applying the Leaf
Gilding is a meticulous process that requires patience and precision. Once the size is tacky, carefully lay the metal leaf onto the surface. Use a gilding brush or soft cloth to smooth it out. Overlapping edges slightly ensures complete coverage. After the leaf is applied, gently burnish it with a soft cloth or brush to enhance the shine and smooth out any wrinkles.
Layering for Depth
Metallic paints often require multiple coats to achieve full coverage and depth. Don’t rush this process—allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next. For exterior applications, make sure to choose a paint designed to withstand the elements. Consider applying a topcoat for extra protection. Gilding may also require a protective coating, especially if used on surfaces that will be touched frequently or exposed to the elements.
Special Effects
If you’re looking to add texture or a unique finish, consider techniques like sponging, rag rolling, or stencilling. These methods can create interesting patterns and enhance the reflective qualities of the paint, adding even more visual interest to your project. In commercial spaces, painting walls with metallic paints be used to create feature walls that become focal points, drawing customers’ attention and adding to the overall ambiance.
Gilding: The Ultimate Luxury Finish
Gilding is an ancient art form that has been used for centuries to add a touch of opulence to everything from fine art and religious artefacts to architecture and interior design. Today, gilding is still highly valued for its ability to create a luxurious, high-end finish that paint alone cannot achieve.
The Process of Gilding
Gilding involves applying thin sheets of metal leaf—usually gold, silver, or copper—to a surface. The process requires patience and precision, but the results are worth the effort. Gilding can be used on a wide range of surfaces. The include wood and plaster to metal and glass, making it a versatile option for both DIY projects and commercial applications.
Gilding in Interiors
In interior design, gilding is used to add a touch of luxury to furniture, mirrors, picture frames, and architectural details such as mouldings and cornices. A gilded mirror, for example, can become a stunning focal point in a living room or hallway. Gilded furniture can elevate the overall look of a room, giving it a sense of elegance and sophistication.
Gilding in Exteriors
While gilding is more commonly associated with interiors, it can also be used to create stunning effects on exteriors. Architectural details like cornices, columns, and window frames can be gilded to add a sense of grandeur to a building’s façade. Gilded signs and lettering can also make a strong visual impact, especially for businesses looking to stand out.
DIY Gilding Tips
If you’re considering a DIY gilding project, start small. Gilding can be a delicate process, so it’s best to practise on a smaller piece before moving on to larger projects. Make sure you’re working in a clean, dust-free environment, as even the smallest particles can mar the finish. Patience is key—take your time, and don’t rush the process. With careful application, you can achieve a finish that looks truly luxurious.
Rawlins Customer Stories
DIY Success Stories: Metallic Paints at Home
A Gilded Bedroom Makeover
A Rawlins customer, a DIY enthusiast with a love for all things glamorous. They decided to gild the mouldings in her bedroom. They carefully applied gold leaf to the crown moulding. This created a stunning, luxurious effect that transformed the room. Paired with rich, velvet curtains and a gold-framed mirror, the gilded mouldings give the room a sense of opulence. It makes it feel like a boutique hotel suite.
Transforming Outdoor Spaces
Another Rawlins customer, Mark, a homeowner with a passion for outdoor living. They desired to give their garden a more polished, upscale look. They decided to paint his metal garden furniture with bronze metallic paint. The result was stunning—the furniture now has a rich, lustrous finish that catches the sunlight beautifully. Mark also used the same bronze paint on his garden gate and outdoor light fixtures, creating a cohesive look that ties the entire space together.
A Copper Kitchen Accent
A budding interior designer contacted Rawlins for help choosing metallic paints. They wanted to make a statement in a kitchen without a full renovation. They chose to paint the kitchen island in a bold copper metallic finish. The warm, reddish tones of the copper add a striking contrast to the white cabinets and stainless steel appliances. The island has now become the focal point of the kitchen, drawing compliments from everyone who visits.
Commercial Applications: Making Spaces Shine
Luxury Restaurant Interiors
A high-end restaurant in London wanted to create an unforgettable dining experience. Painting walls with metallic paint, the designers opted to for gold metallic paint on the feature wall behind the bar. The gold adds warmth and opulence to the space, making it feel both luxurious and inviting. Paired with rich, dark wood and plush seating, the restaurant now exudes an air of exclusivity. It draws in patrons looking for a special night out.
Modern Office Spaces
A tech company looking to revamp its office space chose metallic greys and silvers to create a sleek, modern environment. Painting the reception area walls with metallic paint in a metallic grey, while the meeting rooms feature silver metallic accents, the reflective qualities of the paint help to brighten the space, making it feel more open and energetic. The result is a workspace that is both functional and stylish, perfect for a company that wants to make a strong impression on clients and visitors.
Retail Storefronts
A boutique clothing store wanted to stand out on a busy high street. The owner chose a copper metallic paint for the store’s exterior façade. The bold, eye-catching finish not only attracts passers-by but also reflects the brand’s commitment to high-quality, fashionable products. Inside, the store continues the theme with copper-painted display racks and shelving. It creates a cohesive look that reinforces the brand identity.
Conclusion: The Transformative Power of Metallic Paints
Metallic paints offer a unique and versatile way to transform both interiors and exteriors. Whether you’re embarking on a DIY project at home or looking to elevate a commercial space, these paints can add a level of sophistication and luxury that is unmatched by standard finishes.
From classic golds and silvers to bold coppers and bronzes, the range of metallic shades available means you can find the perfect colour to suit your style and needs. And with the right application techniques, you can achieve a finish that looks professional, whether you’re painting a small decorative item or an entire building façade.
Ready to start your next project? Whether you’re a DIYer looking to refresh your home or a business owner wanting to make a lasting impression, metallic paints can help you create a space that truly shines. If you have any questions or need further advice, leave a comment below—we’re here to help you achieve the perfect finish.