
Rubbing with green square pot scrubbers such as Scotch-Brite ® or regular steel wool during washing improves the surface for patina by removing oxidation. Other methods include a good detergent wash with a bristle brush and rinsing thoroughly in cool water followed by wiping with a solvent like methyl alcohol. A soaking in 10% hydrochloric acid for five to six hours also serves to remove any traces of surface dirt or oil. Surfaces can be cleaned by bead-blasting immediately before patina application. Use rubber gloves during washing and subsequent handling. The most common oils are oils from your hands. A clear-coat acrylic can also be used to stop the patina process.Ĭlean the metal surface - All traces of oils and oxidation should be removed before applying patina chemicals. Sealant such as a nonporous lacquer, or prepared paste wax by Johnson's, Moser's, or Trewax.Sawdust is great for drying and obtaining unusual patterns. Cleaning and rubbing supplies such as detergent, solvents, Scotch-Brite ® pads or steel wool, scouring powder, paper and cotton towels.Heat proof stand to place heated work on.Safety equipment to protect hands, eyes and lungs.Spray bottles and bristle brushes for applying solutions.Temperatures for both metal and the preparation are usually within the 180-240° range. Heat source such as a roofer's torch, propane torch, hair blower, or heat gun.Spoons and scoops for other dry measures. Graduated cylinders or beakers for volume measurements. Distilled water gives most consistent results. Chemicals ( click to see list), depending on formulas employed.Keep mixing utensils and measuring containers clean for best results.

Wear appropriate protective clothing such as an apron or lab coat/smock. Protect hands with gloves, eyes with safety splash goggles, and work in a well ventilated area to avoid inhaling any irritating vapors. Use proper chemicals handling technique and common sense. Ĭreating patinas employs concentrated laboratory reagents. In order to achieve consistent results, however, metal artisans have developed certain methods and approaches to meet this end.ĭiscussed below are basic equipment and procedures which can help lead to a successful patina project. The advantage of a chemical patina is it can usually be produced in a short time and with practice, with a predictable appearance. Assay - Crucibles, Cupels and CasserolesĪ patina is a colorization effect formed on copper, bronze, brass or other metal by natural weathering or by artificial treatment with chemicals.
