On Thu, 29 Sep 2016 14:33:21 -0400, Dave C wrote:

I moved into a previously owned house that has many decorative wrought
iron items, including a swinging entry gate. As expected, many have
rust.

Given the numerous "nooks and crannies", how does one prepare those
surfaces for spray painting. Sanding and steel wool will be an
improvement, but I am sure rust will remain. Is there a coating, to
be applied on the rusted surfaces?

Most appreciative, for any guidance!

If these are not to cumbersome to remove, take them to a sand blaster
and have them blasted. Then shoot on a coat or 2 of primer and a
couple coats of paint. That should last you a decade.
They are a lot easier to paint if you have them loose too.