How to Antique a Sundial Compass
Sundial compasses are two handy devices in one: a compass to find the direction and a sun dial to tell the time when facing north. It is possible to give a brass sundial compass a time-worn, antiquated look by using ammonia — specifically the fumes from pure ammonia. As the chemical evaporates and the fumes envelop the sundial compass, the brass will seemingly age and take on an antique-looking patina.
Things You'll Need
- Clear ammonia
- Sealable, plastic containter
- Wooden blocks (3)
- Plywood sheet
- Brass sundial compass
- Eye goggles
- Rubber gloves
Instructions
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Put three wooden blocks into a sealable plastic container. Put a piece of plywood on top of the blocks to form a simple shelf that's stable and large enough to hold the sun dial compass, but which is small enough you can pour the ammonia in without pouring it directly onto the wood. Make sure the shelf is no more than an inch or two above where the level of the ammonia will rest.
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Put on eye goggles and thick, rubber gloves. Pour full-strength ammonia into the plastic bucket, enough to fill the bottom, but not enough to get less than an inch from the top of the wooden shelf. Do not breathe in the fumes.
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Place the sundial compass on top of the shelf and close the plastic container. Snap it shut. Check on the compass every 15 to 20 minutes to see the effects of the ammonia fumes. As the ammonia evaporates, the fumes will fill the bucket and envelop the brass, causing it to look aged. Refill the ammonia if it evaporates too much. Once the sundial compass looks properly aged, remove it.
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Tips & Warnings
For a burnished look, buff the compass with wax.
References
- Photo Credit Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
