How to Paint a Clay Chiminea

The ambiance of a nice fire in your chiminea outside on your deck or porch on a warm evening is one of life's greater pleasures, but you also have to keep up the maintenance. Cleaning out the belly of the chiminea is just the daily care--you have to weatherize it, too. Painting and sealing the chiminea will add years to its life and provide a beautiful piece to go along with the rest of your outdoor sanctuary.

Thoroughly wash the chiminea, inside and outside. Use a cleaning detergent, warm water and a sponge.

Rub the 80-grit sandpaper across the entire chiminea. Sanding every area is important to ensure paint bonding--remember to sand the rounded areas. Once finished, the chiminea should be smooth with no rough spots.

Put a drop cloth in the area where you are working to keep spills and drips from getting in the grass or other kinds of nearby surfaces.

Choose a brush-on or spray primer and paint. You may want to use spray because the chiminea's roundness will be better covered with spray.

Seal the chiminea with the primer, starting with the interior first and working your way to the outside. One coat usually does the job. Wait the suggested time for the primer to dry before starting the paint.

Distribute the paint evenly throughout the chiminea. Let it dry the allotted time before adding a second coat if needed.

Add a clear coat sealer after painting to keep the chiminea free from outside elements.