Antiquing Bronze Finish on Steel

Use a bronze patina on steel chalices to achieve an antique look.

Changing the look of steel requires the process of patination. Defined as the result of a change in a metal's colors, patination can be artificially induced in many metals. To change the color of steel, you can buy a patina from the hardware store. Hardware stores offer many colors and varieties, including an antique bronze finish. However, before you start your project, you must protect yourself and your surroundings from the harsh chemicals.

Things You'll Need

• Bronze finish patina
• Cleaner
• Steel wool
• Lacquer
• Sealer
• Cupric acetate
• Cupric sulfate
• Distilled water
• Pot
• Thermometer

Instructions

1. Clean the metal with a cleaner. If the steel is exceptionally dirty, then use steel wool.

2. Mix 25 grams of cupric acetate and 19 grams of cupric sulfate in 4 cups of distilled water. Heat the pot with the solution to 176 degrees Fahrenheit. Put the steel into the pot for 15 minutes. Let the metal cool down. Rinse with lukewarm water.

3. Seal the color with lacquer or sealer. Spray evenly onto the metal and let dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear rubber gloves so that the chemicals do not burn your skin.

• Do not let children do this unattended.