Metal Antiquing Patination Fluid – Black

Description

Our Metal colouring Antiquing fluid / Patination fluid  is used for the colouring and ageing of zinc, mild steel, Copper, Brass, Bronze, Pewter etc. It is fast, effective and etches the colour onto the surface of the metal. Our Black Tourmaline, leaves a nice dark finish, for a slightly lighter finish please see our Brown version.

By a simple technique metals can be coloured with a layer of oxide, a few micron thick to provide an antique-like patina finish.

The black colour should work on most non ferrous metals. This does also have some effect on Zinc and Mild Steel.

How to Age Zinc, Mild Steel, Copper and Brass

Preparation

Remove any metal lacquer using paint stripper or similar solvents. Thoroughly remove and clean any grease or oil, including fingerprints.

Here is an example of a Brass handle and Copper handle before ageing. As you can see they are very shiny and new looking.

How to apply

First dilute the Metal colouring Antiquing fluid with ten parts water and immerse items to ensure a uniform colour change, this process is recommended when treating more than one item. If a stronger darker colour is required you can apply the Antiquing Fluid directly onto the item, using either cotton wool or a brush.  Watch the surface quickly change colour.

Apply some agitation to prevent high spots caused by tiny air bubbles. When the desired colour is achieved, rinse immediately with clean water or weak alkaline solution and pat dry with a cotton cloth or paper towel.

After treating, items can be sealed with a wax, oil or lacquer and this will add a nice sheen and finish to the metal. It can make the copper and brass look like it has a patina.

Here is the Brass and Copper finished with an aged patina, they are now a nice antique colour and match the character of a genuine antique piece.

Please Note – Not recommended on Nickel, Stainless Steel or Aluminium. Zinc will usually only have a grey tone not black. Can be used on Galvanised Steel but again, this will usually only produce a grey finish.

It is always recommended to test a small area first.