How to Distress Copper

Distressed copper looks vastly different from brand new copper, and many people prefer its unique look for use in home furnishings and other decorative applications. But naturally distressed copper can be expensive and hard to come by, and you’ll have to wait a very long time for your new copper to become distressed on its own. Instead, follow these steps to give your copper the unique, iridescent distressed look.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Small bottle of liver of sulfur
• Rubber gloves
• Protective eye wear
• Bucket of cold water
• Two plastic cups
• Teapot
• Disposable rag
• Spoon
• Clear lacquer or other clear-coat finish
• Soft-bristle brush
• Scrap copper or copper items to be distressed
• Well ventilated work area

1. Prepare your work area. Get set up in a comfortable, well ventilated area where you can easily reach your copper, the bucket of water and your plastic cups.
2. Heat about a pint of water in your teapot. You don’t need to bring it to a boil, just get it fairly hot. Transfer the hot water to a plastic cup and bring it to your work area.
3. Put on your goggles and rubber gloves. Add a small amount of the liver of sulfur to the hot water to create the solution you’ll use to distress the copper. Use just a small amount–a gob a little smaller around than a dime. Gently stir it into the water with a spoon until it’s completely dissolved.
4. Test a small, preferably hidden area of the copper by dipping your rag into the solution and wiping it on the copper. If the copper changes color very quickly, you may be using too strong of a solution. In this case, dilute the solution with more hot water.
5. Apply the solution to the copper using the rag and working in small sections. After applying the solution, the color should change slowly while you watch. When it reaches the look you’re trying to achieve, use your other plastic cup and the bucket of cold water to rinse the solution away and then move on to the next section. Repeat this process until finished.
6. When you’re done, allow the copper to air dry. Once dry, cover the copper with your clear-coat solution using a soft bristle brush and allow it to dry again.

Tips & Warnings

• Between the time you apply the solution and rinse it away, you can create other interesting effects by brushing the area with a stiff bristle brush or steel wool. Be sure to test this on a hidden area to make sure you’re satisfied with the results.
• Liver of sulfur must always be stored in its original airtight container and in a cool, dark place when not in use.
• Always use proper safety gear to protect your eyes and hands, and be sure to always work in a well ventilated area.