How to Antique Metal Cans
Metal cans can be give an aged look that works well in a garden or outdoor space, as well as inside your home. Antique metal cans have rust spots, look faded and have a patina from years of handline and exposure. New cans are less expensive than antique cans and with a little elbow grease and the right products, you can make those cans look like real antiques by utilizing one of several methods.
Things You'll Need
- Vinegar
- Salt
- Spray bottle
- Muriatic acid
- Water
- Protective gear
- Plastic tarp
Instructions
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1
Combine ¾ cup distilled white vinegar with one teaspoon salt and pour into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture directly onto the metal can, applying it to both the inside and the outside. Alternatively, dip the metal can into the solution. This mixture is similar to an experiment that shows how acid affects copper and other metals.
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2
Place the antique can in the sunlight for several days. Check the progress every day. The sunlight should cause any graphics or designs on the can to fade slightly. The solution left on the can will change the metal and make it look rusty.
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3
Cover your body with protective gear before handling the muriatic acid. This is a strong acid that can burn your skin and clothing. Wear protective goggles and gloves and cover your body with long pants and a long sleeved shirt. Cover your work space with a large plastic tarp, to help keep spills from eating through your flooring.
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4
Mix one part muriatic acid with 20 parts water. The acid helps rust and antique the metal can quickly, but too much may cause the acid to dissolve the metal surface. Dip the metal can into the solution and then set to one side.
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Watch the metal can carefully over the next hour. Within 20 minutes you should notice that the metal is beginning to look worn and old. By the end of the hour, the whole can should be covered in rust. As soon as the can reaches the stage of antiquing that you like, dip in clean water and remove. This washes off the acid and should stop the antiquing process.
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Tips & Warnings
If time isn't a factor, dip the metal can in straight water and place outside, while the can is still wet. The water settles on different areas of the can, creating thicker and thinner rust spots as it ages in the sun.
Burying the can for a few days can also help with the antiquing, by giving it a dirty look.
