How do you achieve an aged or antique look on copper?

[Tetsusaiga]

Hi, I have a small bowie with a copper guard. What do I have to do to get an antique or aged finish on it?

Thanks

 

[scottickes]

I haven't tried it with copper yet, but I achieve an aged look on brass by using cold gun blue. If you leave it on a long time it turns it a dark blackish patina. i If you put it on and wipe it off quickly, it puts a rainbow type patina. However, it isn't a very durable finish. I seal it with a wax that dries to a hard finish to try and protect the patina.

Ickie

 

[TekSec]

Here's a file that I compiled from multiple sources. Hope it helps.

 

[fitzo]

Here's a good selection, too: http://www.sciencecompany.com/patinas/patinaformulas.htm

 

[AcridSaint]

Hi, I've seen the science company products used for patina and it comes out very nice. I understand that you can also use ammonia to age the copper.

 

[Ed Schempp]

In India the copper roofing was often patina-ed with elephant urine, it gives a nice turquoise green color...Take Care...Ed

 

[bikermikearchery]

A book called "the Complete Metalsmith" by Tim McCreight, Has a chapter on color patina recipes.
Please ember that safety should be your first concern when dealing with chemicals. Eye protection, ventilation, and you do so at your own risk.
Mostly about jewelry work the book is still worth having.
Potassium sulfide = black on copper
1 tbsp ammonium chloride, 1tbsp salt, 1oz ammonia, 1qt water = green on copper
water salt and ammonia vapors = blue on copper
1 tbsp ferric nitrate, 1 qt water = brown on copper
peanut oil rubbed on and warmed = brown
There are patinas for a red on copper that are to difficult for me to explain.
Experimentation is the key to patinas

 

[Gene Chapman]

If your not in a hurry, copper will age with time like a well traveled penny, it dosen't take long.

 

[Hengelo_77]

Here's a file that I compiled from multiple sources. Hope it helps.

That is an interesting document. Thnx, for sharing!