Metal with a verdigris patina has an aged beauty that is unique. This protective layer of oxidation is formed over metal like copper, brass and bronze through the years as it is exposed to the air. Products have been developed today that can speed up this natural process. These chemical solutions are able to add patinas to surfaces quickly and efficiently.
Metals like copper and brass were used frequently in the past to create a variety of objects, from pipes to garden statues. All these objects show signs of weathering after years that is hard to imitate. The popularity of this aged finish has lead to many faux painting techniques being devised to recreate the look, some of which are fairly successful. However, the true finish can only be obtained by the oxidation of metals.
Faux painting techniques allow individuals to recreate the effect of aging. However, the true finish is hard to imitate and is only produced when metals are oxidized. This chemical process is accelerated in several different ways. Using a source of heat, like a blowtorch, can create an interesting mix of blue and green patinas. Distilled vinegar or acetic acid produces a pretty green color as copper acetate is formed.
One of the attractions of a finish like this is that no two objects turn out exactly the same. The finish varies depending on different factors such as the type of metal and the techniques used to accelerate aging. The variations of tone and color provide a great foil to contemporary materials and give respect to days gone by.
At different stages in the aging process, different colors are achieved. Using products available to accelerate aging, one can achieve the brown or green color, or anywhere in between. Copper becomes a lovely blueish-green color with age and bronze more of a blueish-black.
The required effect may need to be built up gradually, using several thin coats so as to exercise more control. Alternatively, a few thick coats can be used. One can experiment with different techniques and on different surfaces to see what interesting results can be obtained.
Many different applicators can be used like brushes, sponges or even cotton wool. One can experiment with different methods of application too. Some individuals prefer to use many thin coats to build up the effect gradually and others apply a few thick layers.
As with any product using chemicals, care needs to be exercised when using these products. However, as long as instructions are followed carefully, there should be no problem. A tip is to always pour product into a disposable container for use so that one does not have to dip an applicator into the bottle.
A verdigris patina is appreciated today for its uniqueness and the way it contrasts beautifully with contemporary materials. All the ways used to create such an effect in the past are no longer necessary. Products are readily available that can eliminate time, making the process an effortless one.
Metals like copper and brass were used frequently in the past to create a variety of objects, from pipes to garden statues. All these objects show signs of weathering after years that is hard to imitate. The popularity of this aged finish has lead to many faux painting techniques being devised to recreate the look, some of which are fairly successful. However, the true finish can only be obtained by the oxidation of metals.
Faux painting techniques allow individuals to recreate the effect of aging. However, the true finish is hard to imitate and is only produced when metals are oxidized. This chemical process is accelerated in several different ways. Using a source of heat, like a blowtorch, can create an interesting mix of blue and green patinas. Distilled vinegar or acetic acid produces a pretty green color as copper acetate is formed.
One of the attractions of a finish like this is that no two objects turn out exactly the same. The finish varies depending on different factors such as the type of metal and the techniques used to accelerate aging. The variations of tone and color provide a great foil to contemporary materials and give respect to days gone by.
At different stages in the aging process, different colors are achieved. Using products available to accelerate aging, one can achieve the brown or green color, or anywhere in between. Copper becomes a lovely blueish-green color with age and bronze more of a blueish-black.
The required effect may need to be built up gradually, using several thin coats so as to exercise more control. Alternatively, a few thick coats can be used. One can experiment with different techniques and on different surfaces to see what interesting results can be obtained.
Many different applicators can be used like brushes, sponges or even cotton wool. One can experiment with different methods of application too. Some individuals prefer to use many thin coats to build up the effect gradually and others apply a few thick layers.
As with any product using chemicals, care needs to be exercised when using these products. However, as long as instructions are followed carefully, there should be no problem. A tip is to always pour product into a disposable container for use so that one does not have to dip an applicator into the bottle.
A verdigris patina is appreciated today for its uniqueness and the way it contrasts beautifully with contemporary materials. All the ways used to create such an effect in the past are no longer necessary. Products are readily available that can eliminate time, making the process an effortless one.
About the Author:
Our dime store at www.dimestoreemporium.com has a selection of unique verdigris patina. Come and see the gallery of jewelries now on http://www.dimestoreemporium.com.
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