TIPS AND TRICKS

by Warren Feld
blog.landofodds.com

How To Antique Chains For some jewelry designs, a shiny metal surface isn't quite right.  Instead, a dulled surface with a slight patina and lustre is desirable -- especially if your goal is an antiqued or mysterious look. There are two ways to achieve this look. The first way is called "oxidation".  You can use chemicals to chemically color the metal. Some are called OXIDIZERS and some are called PATINAS.  Some oxidizers work on silver, others on copper, others on bronze, still others on brass and on gold.  Some oxidizers will turn the metal a grayish-black.  Others can turn the metal into blue, gold, purple or rainbow.  The effect is great.  The durability is not.  Often oxidized pieces lose their color when the pieces are worn.  Sweat and air pollutants dissolve the color.  Also, many silver cleaners dissolve the colorations. The most often used oxiders to turn the silver black are Liver of Sulpher and Black Max. The second way is to use an antiquing varnish.  Also, check our Findings Alcove to see what we have available.   Some hardware stores have what's called "antiquing varnish" in their paint and stain areas.  Basically, you apply a coat of varnish, and wipe the piece down.  Let the remaining coat dry.  If it is not dark enough, apply another coat of varnish, and wipe the piece down.  Keep repeating these steps until you've achieved the desired coloration.  This approach is very time-consuming, but leaves a durable finish that will withstand sweat, air pollution, silver cleaners and the passage of time. To get different colors (besides gray, black and blacker) with the varnish, use oil-based paints.  First coat the piece with varnish.  Then coat the piece with the oil-based paint.  Then wipe the piece down.  Let dry, and so forth.