Tuesday, May 20, 2014

The Beauty Of A Verdigris Patina

By Minnie Whitley


Metals like copper and bronze form a protective layer over the years until they look quite different from their original bright color. The green color produced is called a verdigris patina. Today it is possible to create such a finish by using one of the many products on offer. These products have been created to produce the effect of oxidation on metals without needing years for it to develop.

One of the methods used in Medieval times to hasten the process involved burying wooden blocks with copper strips attached in dung for some time. Today, the burying technique is still used. However, nowadays objects are buried in absorbent materials like kitty litter or sawdust once they have been moistened with chemicals. Lovely textures and colors can be created in this way.

There were many other methods used in the past to hasten the oxidation process. Some involved placing copper plates in clay pots filled with distilled wine. Another method was to heat vinegar and hang the copper plates over the pot. The green crust formed was used by artists as pigment. All these processes still involved having to wait some time for a result.

Today one does not have to go to such extremes. A beautiful aged finish can be achieved fairly easily and without taking much time by using one of the many products available. A finish like this involves a chemical reaction and results can vary according to factors such as the techniques used and conditions in which the chemical is applied. The uniqueness of the end product is one of the most appealing factors.

Applying these products is not difficult but some experimentation may be required to produce the result you are looking for. Some of the factors affecting the results are the chemicals used and the number of layers applied. The type of metal used also affects the color produced. A bluish green is common with copper and a bluish black with bronze.

Some products are applied to the metal at room temperature. These products are usually opaque and are either sprayed on or painted on with a brush. It is best to pour a small amount into a disposable container for application, pouring in more as required. Applying too much can spoil the effect, creating chalky areas that flake off.

Other products need heat for application and great care has to be taken as the chemicals used may be flammable. The benefit of applying heat is that the chemicals penetrate deeper. It is necessary to use gloves and other protective items. Toxic fumes can be given off so application should take place in a well ventilated area.

The popularity of this type of finish with designers, landscapers and homeowners means that many such products are available today from numerous outlets, including online stores. These products allow for a touch of rustic charm to be added to any object without having to wait for years. Countless different objects such as pots, statues, screens, doors and even jewelry can be given interesting textures and colors, adding to their allure.




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