How to clean vintage enamel signs and advertising tins

Step by step

1. 1

   Step 1: Dust and wash

   Brush off loose dirt, then wash with mild soapy water on a damp cloth. For printed tins, use barely damp cloths: water gets under the print and lifts it.

2. 2

   Step 2: Clean around chips

   Use cotton buds to clean the edges of chips and mounting holes. Don't try to fill or paint chips on a sign you plan to sell.

3. 3

   Step 3: Leave rust alone on the face

   Surface rust around chips is part of the look. On the back or inside a tin, you can treat rust with a little rust converter to stop it spreading.

4. 4

   Step 4: Wax

   A coat of car wax brings out the colour of the enamel and protects printed tins. Buff it gently.

5. 5

   Step 5: Hang it safely

   Enamel signs are heavy. Use the original holes and proper fixings into studs.