Painting Cast Iron Plate

[R. Goodale]

BILL &PAT HOPKINS wrote:
> 
> I need sources of paint suppliers for spraying a piano plate.
> Some technicians recommend "Krylon" brand - metallic gold.
> Other have colors mixed.  Does Steinway sell paint for this?

Bill,

I think I have tried most all of the over-the-counter stuff and have
found the results to be well less then satisfactory. I have never liked
the color nor the durability. Something could also probably be said for
asthetics here. Whats more scarry is that sometimes this stuff end up
being acrylic even if the lable does say "lacquer". Idealy if you are
set up for the job you could purchase the bronzing powders and mix it
yourself. Since this is not always practical for everyone, however, I
might suggest the following:

1. Check with Star/Mohawk, (If I'm not mistaken the two companies have
merged into one now). I personally haven't been overly thrilled with
their canned bronzing paint either but it sure beats the stuff you get
at Wal-Mart. I've used it several times with passable results. I'm sure
others on this list would give them a thumbs up. I will say that their
bronzing powders are excellent if you want to try mixing your own.


2. As far as cans go my first choice is the stuff sold by Steinway. It
is of excellent quality and goes on real smooth. I find that at least
2-3 cans are neccessary to completely cover everything well, (at least
two coats). Unfortunately the Steinway cans are a bit expensive ($10.00
- $12.00 each as I recall), but it is well worth it and really only
represents a very small part of the rebuilding cost anyway.

I would add that no matter what type of bronzing you use end it with a
nice coat of clear lacquer, (after you do the lettering). It will really
make it look smooth and sharp.

Lots-O'-Luck!

Rob Goodale, RPT