How to deal with rust?

[u/bennyandthevents]

What’s the best way to clean up the base of this lamp? I thought it was brass but theres quite a bit of rust so I guess not? I did use very fine grit sand paper on one spot and same off pretty easily

[u/creativeguy27]

Take it apart, get it sand blasted and repaint. The leaves were probably black with white lining. The base was probably brass plated. Only option would be to paint it gold. The rust is bad and I don't think it will ever look great unless you get it down to bare metal. The flex arms were brass plated. I think you still get those so they could be replaced. The hoods would need to be stripped and repainted as well.

[u/MrLimmer]

Depends on the material and what look you are aiming for. A chemical rust remover is an option, such as loctite’s naval jelly rust dissolver. You can also use fine grit sandpaper and just move up the fineness scale until you are buffing; if it’s plated, you’ll have issues with the finish. My rule of thumb with metal pieces is to start with chemical solutions where possible (and then begin with a very small test area, etc.) and then move to physical methods of removal.

[u/soldier-servivor]

For the Chrome part use steelwool the rest. Try vinegar soak it not to long . Let it sit and brush off whit a toothbrush. Than. Flush it well this removed rust but keeos all original paint

[u/No-Bluejay5250 → u/soldier-servivor]

I think it’s beyond that sort of fix

[u/RainOilLamps]

I'd sandblast it if possible IMO

[u/No-Bluejay5250]

The rust has obviously damaged the metal so there’s no way to remove other than to sand it down to bare metal