My daughter just bought a house. She bought some new wall sconces that have tarnished copper. I thought of a way to make some cool bar lamps using copper tubing and wire. However, she would want them "tarnished" to match the wall sconces.
Does anyone know of a way to quickly tarnish copper?
Thanks for any advice.
Jill Marie
Bathroom Sconce
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Category : Wall Sconces
I always heard putting the pieces of copper in used kitty litter was the best.The ammonia and something else in the urine oxidizes the copper.
A bit gross…I think.
You can also probably get a chemical oxidizer at an arts and craft supply store.Try some of the big online ones.I know liver of sulphur turns (oxidizes) silver dark, not sure if it also turns copper.Also are you wanting a darker copper look, or a green verdigris?
Here is some links:
http://www.misterart.com/store/view/003/group_id/1855/ST-LOUIS-CRAFTS-Liver-Of-Sulphur.htm
http://www.misterart.com/store/view/003/group_id/2178/MODERN-OPTIONS-Patina-Green-Antiquing-Sets.htm
There are acid-containing compounds available that will put a green patina on copper, so that it resembles copper that has weathered.
Apply heat to them. I know the bottoms of my copper pots always tarnish quickly when I cook with them. Hope this helps.
Stained Glass supply stores have a product that will tarnish copper from what I hear. They used to market "livers of sulfur" that would turn copper dark, but it was taken off the market as "toxic".