DIY Bronzing

You can bronze almost any object.

Bronzing can take an ordinary object and turn it into a keepsake that you will cherish for years. It is a popular way to preserve baby shoes and other mementos you wish to display. Master this technique and you can create your own display art, as well as creating gifts for friends and family. You may even be able to turn it into a business.

Things You'll Need

• Ammonia-based cleaner
• Hammer
• Nail
• Wire
• Bronze powder
• Spar varnish
• Camel hair paint brush

Instructions

1. Clean the object thoroughly with ammonia-based cleaner. Remove all grease and grime from the object. Remove all dust and particles. Particles left under the surface of the bronze will create an uneven finish and flaking of the bronze. Allow the object to dry.

2. Arrange the object exactly as you want it preserved. Use fast-drying glue to secure any parts that need to be fixed in place. Let the glue dry completely.

3. Make a hole in the object, if possible. The holes will be used to loop wire through the object so it can be hung to dry. Drive a nail through corresponding parts of the item. Thread the wire through the holes.

4. Mix bronzing powder with fast-drying spar varnish. Add varnish until the mixture is the same consistency as paint. Stir often to keep the powder from sinking to the bottom.

5. Paint the object with the bronze. Use a good-quality camel hair brush to apply the mixture. Paint the outside and inside of the object. Hang the item up from the wires and let it dry completely. Clean the brush with water.

6. Apply a second coat of bronze. Continue applying coats of bronze until you have completely covered your object.

Tips & Warnings

• You are not limited to bronzing. Create the same effect with both gold and silver powder. Use the same techniques. Simply replace the bronzing powder with another powder of your choice.

References

• Pioneer Thinking.com: How You Can Bronze Baby Shoes
• Caswell Inc.: Baby Shoe Bronzing Kits