How to Dye Metal

Metal can be dyed various colors.

One way to dye metal is through a process called anodizing. Anodizing is an electrochemical process that changes the surface of metal into an anodic oxide finish. The anodic oxide structure originates from the aluminum substrate and is composed entirely of aluminum oxide. This oxide is fully integrated with the aluminum, which is different from painting it on. This will ensure the metal does not chip or peel and allows for coloring and sealing.

Things You'll Need

• Nitric acid
• Distilled water
• Clean rag
• Sulfuric acid
• Rubber bucket
• 12-volt charger
• Pot
• Fabric dye solution
• Tongs
• Gloves

Instructions

1. Clean the surface of the metal to prepare for the anodizing. Pour 1-2 ounces of nitric acid into a gallon of distilled water and mix it together. Pour a small amount into a clean rag and wipe down the surface of the aluminum. Turn it over and wipe down the other side until all visible grease, dirt and debris is removed.

2. Mix two parts sulfuric acid and one part water into a rubber bucket large enough for the metal to sit in. Set the metal in the mix. Place charging rods into the solution and turn on the 12-volt charger. Leave the rods in the mix for about two hours to heat it up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit

3. Fill up a pot large enough for the metal to fit in with water and add in fabric dye solution of the desired color you want to dye the metal. Heat the water to boiling while you are waiting for the metal to heat up in the rubber tub.

4. Set the metal in the boiling water and let it sit in the solution for 30 minutes. Turn off the stove and remove the metal with tongs as it will be extremely hot. Inspect the metal and verify it has been dyed the proper color before you empty out the contents of the pan.

5. Set the metal on a flat surface so it can properly cool down and dry off before you use it for your desired application.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear gloves throughout this entire process to help protect your hands not only from the hot water, but also from the acid you will be using.

References

• War Pig: Anodizing at Home
• Anodizing: What is Anodizing?