Metal Antiquing Patination Fluid – Brown

Description

Our Metal colouring Antiquing fluid (Tourmaline / Patination fluid)  is used for the colouring and ageing Copper, Brass, Bronze, Pewter etc. It is fast, effective and etches the colour onto the surface of the metal. Our Brown Tourmaline, leaves a nice medium finish, If you prefer a slightly Darker finish please see our Black 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.

How to Age 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 Stainless Steel or Aluminium. For Zinc and Mild Steel, please use our black version.

It is always recommended to test a small area first.