How to Repaint a Vintage Fridge
- 1). Clean the outside surface of the fridge with a degreasing cleanser. Rinse the outside thoroughly and allow it to dry.
- 2). Fill in any holes, scratches or dents with a layer of auto dent filler. Allow the filler to dry, then sand it smooth. Start with medium-grit sandpaper, then move to a finer-grit sandpaper to create a smooth, invisible repair.
- 3). Sand the entire outside of the fridge lightly to rough up the paint. Use a medium-grade sandpaper. Doing this will help the new paint to adhere to the outside of the fridge.
- 4). Wash the outside of the refrigerator with plain dish soap and water, then rinse it with clear water and allow it to dry. This will remove any lingering paint dust.
- 5). Open the refrigerator and block off the interior by taping old newspapers over the opening. Cover all gaskets, handles and chrome accents with a tight cover of masking tape. Close the refrigerator door.
- 6). Coat the outside of the fridge with a light spray coating of paint. Follow the directions on the can exactly to create the smoothest surface. Allow the paint to dry, then add a second coat to cover the outside of the fridge completely. Allow the paint to dry for at least three days.
- 7). Shine up the outside of the fridge with a coat of car polish. Rub the surface down until it shines for a final, new-paint look.
