How to Antique New Dresser Hardware

If you are putting new hardware on an antique dresser, you may want to age or antique the new hardware. While finding a full set of antique hardware for your dresser might be challenging, creating your own is not. Be sure to choose new dresser hardware that matches the style of your dresser, even if the finish is not quite perfect. Choose a metal that ages in the way you prefer, as copper, brass and bronze each age differently.

Things You'll Need

• New dresser hardware in copper, brass or bronze Antiquing solution, available in craft or home improvement stores Foam brush Metal cleaner or TSP solution Steel wool Paint remover or similar solvent Large bucket Protective gloves Nylon scrubbing pad Lacquer or finish if desired

Instructions

How to Antique New Dresser Hardware

1. Choose dresser hardware made of brass, bronze or copper for the best results when you antique new dresser hardware. Brass was the most common choice for antique metal dresser hardware and will give you an authentic look. Look for unfinished hardware.

2. Clean the brass dresser hardware thoroughly. Metal cleaner and steel wool will remove most dirt and grease; however, if there is a protective coating you may need to clean your dresser hardware with paint thinner or a solvent-based cleaner.

3. Working in a well-ventilated area, dilute the antiquing solution at a ratio of 10 parts water to 1 part solution. Prepare enough solution to fully immerse one piece of dresser hardware. It is best to antique new dresser hardware one piece at a time for a good final result.

4. Place one piece of hardware into the antiquing solution. The color should develop quite quickly. Allow the piece to stay in the solution until the color is a bit darker than you would like if you plan to buff in highlights; otherwise remove when the color suits your preference.

5. Rinse your antiqued dresser hardware well under hot water. For a solid color, dry immediately with a soft cloth. If you would prefer highlights, burnish with a nylon scrubbing pad. An overly dark finish may be scoured away with a nylon scrubber.

6. Antique all of the new hardware for your dresser. If the finishes are slightly uneven, keep in mind that most antique hardware shows some degree of uneven wear and aging.

7. Apply lacquer or polyurethane to your antiqued dresser hardware. This will preserve the finish as you have created it. If you prefer to allow it to continue aging naturally, do nothing and install your new dresser hardware to your antique furniture.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to wear rubber gloves when working with harsh chemicals like antiquing solution.