Here's Why You Should Never Paint Your Sink

One of the oldest asks in civilization is to be granted the wisdom to know what you can actually change. Apparently, sinks are high on the list — especially when it comes to painting them. According to the DIY advisors at Apartment Therapy, sink painting should be largely left in the hands of manufacturers. And, as Mary Shelley made a point of illustrating in "Frankenstein," just because you can do it doesn't make it a great idea.

These experts warn that while you can stand back and admire your work and its cost-effectiveness (some say the project can cost as little as $10), the results are unlikely to last, and will very likely disappoint you. You may also wind up with a damaged sink, which means having to replace it entirely — and that will definitely set you back some money.

But guess what? Not everyone agrees. As it turns out, there are a variety of sites — and processes — that some hobbyists suggest could bring you the sink you've been dreaming of at a reasonable cost.

One DIY-enthusiast at The Honeycomb Home decided to undertake this project, and embarked on an exhaustive search for the right paint; she ended up choosing it from Rustoleum for the top of her vanity and sink. She reports there were two options: One involved a kit that requires a brush and mixing two separate components to create the complete painting mixture. The other? A premixed spray paint. She chose the spray.

As a finishing touch, she also decided to glaze the sink — which once again required mixing elements from a kit. She was not at all satisfied with results, and vowed that she refuses to ever undertake such a task again. That's not surprising, as if you choose to use a spray paint indoors, the prep work involved can be extensive as well. Plastic drop cloths, covering mirrors and glasswork, and removing faucets all become essential elements of the task.

The artisans at Duct Tape and Denim caution that because cleanliness is essential in getting an optimal result, you can expect to spend something close to 90 minutes cleaning the sink area before you even begin to paint. Additionally, the old caulk must be removed, and it will resist you, they promise. They also warn that paints for the project are anything but fragrant, so they advise opening all available windows, and if you have pets or children you absolutely don't want them exposed to these fumes. Furthermore, because multiple coats will likely be needed, they recommend each coat be applied as thin as possible. And, they caution: Brace yourself to have that first coat give you an ugly result.

Ultimately, the craftsfolk ended up applying three thin coats of paint to the sink before they were satisfied with its appearance. Their final judgement: Despite the effort, the prep, the less-than-desirable scent, and the numerous applications, the result was both satisfying and a great money-saver.