Chrome objects are everywhere in everyday life. And the day you also want to chrome an object, you ask yourself the question: can I chrome it myself? Yes, you can indeed chrome an object but it will in no way be a real chrome plating, this one requiring dangerous products and professional gestures. However, you will have three options. The first solution being that of polishing, the second that of painting and the third the use of a special kit.
It is important to emphasize that the companies that practice chrome plating employ professionals who generally use extremely toxic products that you cannot use at home. The toxicity of these products is so high that the European Union is considering toughening the law even more, or even completely banning the use of chromium. The solutions described below do not use this type of product, which is why they give the impression of chrome plating to your objects but are in no way real chrome plating operations.
Solution 1: Chrome an object by polishing
Do you want to get down to chrome an object in your kitchen, your bathroom or your car? Because this object is no longer as shiny and elegant as it once was? So over to you! Start this operation for the first time and you may take a liking to it and start cleaning and polishing this object regularly.
Avoid harsh cleaning products. They will certainly remove dirt but also metal. Use a microfiber cloth, and if certain areas are difficult to access when cleaning, a toothbrush or a narrow brush with a long handle. Go with lukewarm water and washing up liquid. If your object is stained, rub it with half a lemon, let it act then rinse it with lukewarm water. Depending on the dirt, you can add white vinegar to it. An old and tried and true home remedy is baking soda. Not only is it inexpensive, but you also remove heavy dirt encrustations. Spread the powder on the chrome with a damp cloth, then let the baking soda soak in for about two hours. After that, wipe thoroughly with lukewarm water. If you have an open fireplace, you can also clean the chrome with leftover ashes. To do this, gently rub the object with the ashes and then wash it thoroughly.
Once the object you want to chrome has been rigorously cleaned, you can start sanding. Whether you sand by hand or with an electric sander is up to you. If you sand by hand, equip yourself with an abrasive paper. Start with a fairly low degree of abrasion, which is intended to begin to erase the roughness of your object. Then use crescendo abrasive paper. You should be able to make your object perfectly smooth. In the same way with an electric sander, use different types of discs. Then apply a polishing cream. Choose it according to the metal you are dealing with. Then finally polish the object so as to obtain a beautiful shine. This can be done with a polishing cloth.
Solution 2: Chrome an object with paint
The second possibility to chrome an object remains to paint it with a chrome paint. You can apply it preferably with a spray gun. The prerequisite is that your object is perfectly smooth. If your object is not, you can proceed to sanding as described above. You also have the option of applying an undercoat. In this specific case, wait a really long time for this undercoat to be completely dry. All solvents must be evaporated. And then, as traditionally for a painting operation, protect your site. Then install the object to be painted on a support that will allow you to paint it entirely or turn it easily. If certain parts must be avoided, cover them with protective tape. Of course, wear masks and gloves so as not to inhale the paint and avoid splashes.
As for the gesture, it must be very light. Before you start, do some testing. Then proceed in regular spurts. Gradually cover your entire object. Again, let it dry for a relatively long time: ideally at least a day and a night.
Solution 3: Chrome an object using a kit
The third possibility to chrome an object at home is the chrome kit of small parts that you can find for around 200 euros. It includes all the elements necessary for your chrome plating, which you can do in your garage or in your garden. Without any special equipment and without any machine, you will be able to achieve your goals, and this on any type of support. An example: you can choose the chrome kit solution if you want to chrome a motorcycle helmet. For larger areas, it is best to turn to the service of a professional.
Here too, the conditions for using this kit must be met: a space for painting and varnishing to be protected with a tarpaulin, a support that allows you to turn your object to be painted – remember that the products used may run out. It is necessary that the temperature of your place is sufficiently high, it is necessary to count at least 20 degrees so that the chemical reaction is done correctly. Remember to ventilate the room where you will perform the chrome plating.