Treating Vintage License Plates

Posted by T-Gripped on October 30, 2017 at 8:53am

I am working on a commissioned build featuring a 1946 license plate that has acquired a bit of rust. I am thinking of hitting it with some matte poly spray to insure the rust doesn't spread or soil anything. Is this a good idea?

Are there better ways to treat vintage plates?

I do not want to repaint, I am going for a 'relic' look.

Thanks in advance for your input!!

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Replies

  • John Sawyer March 14, 2018 at 9:41pm

    Any paint process will darken the rust, but it will prevent it from staining hands and clothing..  Rustoleum makes clear finish in Matte, Satin, Semigloss and gloss...  Water based Poly would be OK, but oil based would look a little yellow...

    • Richard Dean > John Sawyer March 15, 2018 at 11:19am

      A little late to the party lol, I think he finished it back in November, but still all good ideas for future builders. Not sure what route he went.

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  • Thomas "Duck" Petry October 30, 2017 at 10:40am

    This stuff is amazing.  Folks use it on unpainted bodies on cars to prevent surface rust and you can paint over it if you decide to at a later date.  http://www.gibbsbrandlubricant.com/

    The other option, probably cheaper but needs to be redone more often would be WD-40.  Neither should change the color of the metal.

    Spraying clear poly will trap any miosture underneath it and the rust will continue.

  • MadGomer October 30, 2017 at 9:15am
    I'd suggest looking into one of the rust conversion products out there before you hit it with any poly. These products will turn the rust a relatively dark (almost black) color, which would work well with that plate. Try it on the back first to be sure you're happy with the effect. Degrease it thoroughly and wear gloves.
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