Raw Aluminum

Often found in hardware and building supply stores, aluminum comes in a wide array of alloys and shapes with a variety of surface treatments. Pure, uncoated aluminum is highly reactive with oxygen and can exhibit poor adhesion of most coatings without industrial surface preparation methods.

At minimum, scuff the surface, degrease with isopropyl alcohol, then use a commercial DTM (Direct to Metal) or Bonding Primer suitable for aluminum and waterborne paints. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended preparation for the best results.

Since commercial primers may yellow, applying one or more coats of acrylic gesso on top of the primer can provide a brighter white ground.

Acrylics can be painted directly on the commercial primer or Gesso.

Oils can be painted directly on the commercial primer or Gesso, but we have also found that good surface preparation can allow oil grounds and paints to adhere directly to the raw aluminum. The surface must, at minimum, be thoroughly degreased and well-scuffed.

Any of our Gesso & Grounds, Gels & Pastes, and most of our Fluid Mediums can be applied to alter the absorbency, durability, or texture of the surface.

For watercolors, we typically recommend applying Gesso followed by one of our three QoR Watercolor Grounds for a bright white absorptive surface.

For dry media like PanPastel, we recommend applying a textured ground or paste for improved tooth.

Note: We recommend testing the adhesion of the primer to the raw aluminum to ensure your preparations are suitable. For our recommended adhesion testing protocol, please see our Just Paint article: Will It Stick? Simple Adhesion Testing In Your Studio

Article: Painting on Metal: An Introduction