alanhatch

I use emt conduit

unfortunately there is no easy answer for this one, if you have a heat gun you could try and remove the paint that way.

I use an outdoor primer as it is thicker than indoor paint primer, as far as a clearcoat I use a polycrylic

I USE METAL EMT CONDUITT. ITS VERY STURDY AND HARD TO BREAK. AROUND THE BACK OF THE POLE FOR THE STRAPS I USE A FEW PIPING STRAPS WITH SMALL SCREWS

I use a brush on polycrylic high gloss as it protects against the sun better

It is always frustrating when you spend this amount of time working your yard art and then realizing that it didn't work or that later down the road they start to peel as you said. a couple of things. first only sand a little bit. you don't want it completely sanded except for the areas where you cut. This makes it so the paint adheres to the wood good. Second always prime the piece. I use two or three coats of primer per piece front back and around the cut edges. Don't use latex paint. latex has the issue of peeling. If you are going to use a paint acrylic paint is best. But if your going to use a different form of paint oil is the way to go although this would be expensive. once you are done seal it with a non yellowing sealer. use three coats or more to get the desired effect and pro...

It is always frustrating when you spend this amount of time working your yard art and then realizing that it didn't work or that later down the road they start to peel as you said. a couple of things. first only sand a little bit. you don't want it completely sanded except for the areas where you cut. This makes it so the paint adheres to the wood good. Second always prime the piece. I use two or three coats of primer per piece front back and around the cut edges. Don't use latex paint. latex has the issue of peeling. If you are going to use a paint acrylic paint is best. But if your going to use a different form of paint oil is the way to go although this would be expensive. once you are done seal it with a non yellowing sealer. use three coats or more to get the desired effect and protection. do not use thin wood as well when you put something outside you want a nice thick piece of wood at least 1/2 to 3/4 inch or more good luck and if I can be of service any more let me know