How NOT to Paint Decals

So have you ever found a neat piece of furniture but it has a decal that can't be removed or a metal container that has a decal. You want to paint them, but how NOT to paint the decals. Never fear, it is actually easier than you think. I found this metal watering can at a garage sale for a $1. Nothing very exciting, but knew I could paint it. However, it had this "metal decal" and I didn't want to paint that.

This watering can had some rust but since I was going to paint it, it didn't matter.

Loved the decal, but it was riveted on.

Problem: How to paint the watering can without painting the decal?

You probably already have what you need in your cupboard - Vaseline. Yes, good old cheap Vaseline!
 
I use the cheap brand for projects like these. There are probably other products you can use, but this works for me and I always have it on hand.

You will also need a small paint brush to apply the Vaseline to the area where you don't want the paint to stick. 

Apply the Vaseline all over the area, in this case my decal. Make sure to cover the sides as well and use enough to coat all areas. After you have painted your piece, use a cloth to wipe off the Vaseline. If any paint gets on the Vaseline it will come right off. 

Once I had it completed, I felt that it needed something else. I put some white paint on some crumpled waxed paper and dabbed it on the piece. I didn't want too much just some white highlights. 

I have used Vaseline on furniture decals as well. Apply it anywhere, where you don't want paint to adhere. You can use wax on furniture and it will do the same thing. I have never try wax on decal, since it is easier to smear the Vaseline. Have you used something else?

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