Q&A for How to Age Copper

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Why did one side turn pink when the other three sides came out greenish-brown?

Community Answer

Your problem is probably vinegar in the mixture. Acetic acid (present in vinegar) will "pickle" or slightly etch your copper, removing the patina. If you added more vinegar than necessary, or if the piece sat in a puddle of the mixture, this could cause the fresh pink copper color.

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Question

How do I best preserve the patina on oxidized copper?

Community Answer

Once the level of oxidation has been achieved, if you don’t want the greenish Statue of Liberty color, you will need to coat the outer layer with a protective coat of varnish or clear paint to stop the oxidation process. The copper will continue to patina until the greenish color is reached and it will then stay that way, you don't need to do anything special to "reserve" the look.

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Question

Will spraying varnish on copper age it?

Community Answer

Spraying varnish or lacquer on it would actually provide a protective coat to the copper that would prevent oxidation (patina).

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Question

Is it normal for a copper sink to have a white haze on the bottom?

Community Answer

The white haze occurs when a cleaning product with an acidic base is used. Acid whitens the patina.

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Question

Will the ageing wear off on a copper sink?

Community Answer

Yes, if you pour acidic products into your sink and leave them. This will remove the patina.

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Question

Once I have used a solution to patina copper, what do I do to neutralize the solution and stop the patina?

Community Answer

Make up as solution of baking soda and water. Soak the copper in it and agitate with a brush to ensure it gets into small crevices. Remove from the solution and rinse in running water. Dry as necessary.

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