Most electroplating is done on conductive metal surfaces such as steel machine parts, nickel hardware, or silver jewelry. 

However, we often get questions from customers who are wanting to electroplate onto non-conductive surfaces, such as plastic car emblems, decorative stones and crystals, and other materials such as shells, glass, and wood.

While electroplating on non-conductive surfaces can be accomplished, it's important to know that the plating will not bond the same way that it would with a conductive metal surface. The longevity of the plating will not be the same and there is a greater chance that at some point it will separate from the surface it is applied to.

We do not specialize in plating non-conductive surfaces and we don't provide plating services or R&D for your project. We provide limited tech support in these situations. We also don't sell a conductive paint or spray and we don't provide tech support for 3rd party products. 

Here are the tips we can offer as you plan to plate onto non-conductive surfaces:

  • There is not one recommended process - every situation is different. You will likely need to go through some sample pieces until you find a process that works and gives you the finished look you desire.
  • For plastic car emblems, it's best to have a chrome shop apply a nickel plating to them. You can then plate onto the nickel.
  • For many non-conductive surfaces, it is often ideal to use a copper foil and then plate onto that.
  • If a copper foil is not the best option for your project, you will need a conductive paint. Three layers of plated metal are usually recommended on top of the conductive paint: copper for conductivity, then nickel to provide a stronger surface, then gold or whatever your final desired plate is.
  • Your items may require polishing between the different steps.