Off topic: copper handle how to keep it copper colour

Hengelo_77

Hengelo_77

Basic Member
Joined
Mar 2, 2006
Messages
6,311
I am taking my time setting up shop. Not just functional, I also want it to be a space where I feel good.
My father in law made a new window for me and reused the old metal ware. It has a nice, old copper handle.
I want to sand it up to original copper colour and I want to preserve it. (the colour)
Should I coat it in wax? (what wax?) Will an oxidising oil work?
 
In my opinion, copper should be allowed to oxidize and form a patina.
If you coat it with a spray lacquer ,like Krylon, it will resist tarnishing, but eventually the air will find holes in the film and spots will appeal. On something that gets touched and used, I would sand it smooth and let nature take its course. Wax would not hold up or work well.
The only other way to keep it bright color is to polish with copper polish,it or wipe it down with Tarnex regularly. That will be a constant chore.
 
Thnx Stacy, you're an endless source of good advice :)
I think I'll polish with copper polish regularly and see how it holds up
 
Personally I love the look copper acquires naturally over time -- I don't even like shiny copper pans. But each to their own.
 
A couple of popular waxes sculptors use to seal their bronzes are Renaissance Wax or Bri Wax.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top