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Klunkers a-loooooves his new archway

Klunkers a-loooooves his new archway

About two years ago, we made a trade with a couple friends of ours: an authentic Santa suit (the one Matt wore when he proposed to me on Christmas Day, 2004) for their garden archway. Being one who’s learned not to attach too much sentimental value to “things”, I realized it was going to a wonderful home full of children, and their garden gate was in good hands with this DIY gal.

Fast forward a couple years filled with lots of rain, hot summers and sea salt, windy days. Yep, our archway was not looking its best and was certainly in need of some attention. So, while sprucing up our steps for spring, I included it as well.

I figured ours couldn’t be the only metal archway that’s in need of a welcoming makeover, so today’s post offers a very quick and easy guide to bring yours back to life as well. If you enjoy this post, I hope you’ll spruce up your garden entryway and/or spread the word to a friend. I think that would be a fair exchange…don’tcha think?

Supplies:

• wire brush

• coarse and fine sandpaper (medium-coarse – P60 and fine – P120)

• exterior spray paint

Instructions:

1. Using your wire brush, scrub off peeling paint and dirt. This can be a little time consuming, but, if you get into the zen of this process, your results will show it.

Wire brush the peeling metal

Wire brush the peeling metal and dirt.

2. Sand smooth. First, use the medium/coarse P60 sand paper to really smooth out the rough areas and rust. Secondly, use the fine P120 paper to make the surface nice a smooth. Wipe down with a clean cloth.

3. Spray all surfaces. Be sure to get into the nooks and crannies. Complete coverage will help prevent rusting over again as well as look oh, so pretty!

Spray on your exterior paint

Spray on your exterior paint…make sure to cover all surfaces.

Welcome back, archway!

Welcome back, archway!

Welcome back, archway!

The archway creates a focal point to your entryway and entryway's garden

The archway creates a focal point to your entryway and entryway’s garden.

The archway watches over its newly planted garden

The archway watches over its newly planted garden.

All photography by Skaie Knox, HomeJelly

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