Patina

[Edwardo]

Ive seen some metal finished in patina colors, some are all 1 color, others have multiple colors that look random, others show the grinding/buff marks which i like. Is this done with heat or chemicals or both. I checked out a few web sites for patina, can anyone explain the process of patina coloring and finishes. Thanks

EDD

[Cruiser]

The patina can be thermal or chemical. The chemical would generally be an acid with specific salts and sometimes heat too, for a specific material. Differant materials = differant processes ! The most beautyful would be damask but this is a forging folding welding process. The simplest would be snake oiling or heating to a dull glow of iron or steel then plunging into sulphurous oil, which makes for a very anti rust treatment. I still have some tools treated this way that my grandfather did in the early 1900's that look very fresh and new ! but it isn't really a patina surface. you will need to pick the results wanted for a particular base metal then ask for a process to meet your needs.

[Edwardo]

Thanks for the reply, i think i will stay away from chemicals as much as possible, i tried my small propane torch to heat the metal but i dont think it gets hot enough, will get a oxy/acet and see how that goes, been putting it off but i need it anyways.

EDD