Refurbishing Blue Star Memorial Markers

Refurbishing Instruction for Memorial Markers

            Paint colors were matched for FRAZEE PAINT stores in California. My husband took a new memorial marker to a Frazee store for color matching. Only Frazee dealers and stores will be able to duplicate these paint colors with the formulas that we have available. However, with samples of the paint we will give you, upon request, one could take the colors to another store and ask for a match. You will need to purchase the oil-based paint for exteriors, 2 colors in quart size, even though it is more expensive, as the markers stand in the elements. You will spend approximately $60 for the paints to cover both surfaces of one large highway marker, plus a good quality brush, other tools and sundries.

            In addition to these two colors of finish paints, you will need a metal primer for a first coat on the bare metal from which you have removed all of the original coatings. You will also need a small (2 0z.) bottle of gold-colored crafts or artist type of paint for doing the gold lettering. Ask the paint store for suggestions on finding this item. We suggest Aleene’s Premium Coat, Acrylic; because this paint is water cleanup.

            Prepare your marker by using paint remover and wire brushing to get rid of all old paint and dirt. The markers are made of aluminum, cast in sand. The flat surfaces behind the raised design and lettering are not intended to be smooth-don’t go too far with the abrasives and wire brushing or you will destroy the texture of the background. Oil paints should not be sprayed in California due to the Air Quality laws.

            You’ll note that there was a red oxide area in the center of the markers when originally painted by Sewah Studios. This is now eliminated by Sewah Studios on the new markers due to discoloration. As we have traveled about the state we have seen refurbished markers with just the bronze color for the background that look most attractive. However, since the markers do not have the baked-on finish that is done at the factory originally, it would be good to finish with a sealing coat to protect against the elements.  If it seems that refurbishing the marker yourself, or hiring it done, is too much work the markers can be returned to Sewah Studios for refurbishing. At the present time the cost for refurbishing is $750, including shipping both ways. A new pole costs $300. This is subject to change. Contact this chairman for a current quote. 

June 2007 Ruth Angevine, C.G.C.I. Blue Star Memorials chairman
Phone (925) 933-6941 or e-mail at ruthangevine@yahoo.com

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