https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/adding-beautiful-patina-to-brass-components • Posted by Tammie E. [TTE Designs]
Reclaimed brass from a thrift shop find is refurbished into beautiful earrings.
Reclaimed brass from a thrift shop find is refurbished into beautiful earrings.
Locate some 24 gauge brass sheeting. If you don't make a great thrift shop find, it can be purchased online.
Using metal snips, cut two matching squares. Sand surface and edges lightly to smooth, clean with damp cloth. Emboss with machine and a design folder in a pattern of your choice.
Prepare a plastic disposable container with lid. Cut a raised scrap of a plastic or container box and place in the center to elevate the two brass elements. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on top of the metal pieces. Carefully pour about 1/4 cup of ammonia into the base of the container at the edges being careful not to wet the brass and salt.
Cover with lid and leave for at least 8 hours or longer. The fumes from the ammonia react with the salt on the brass to create a pretty blue patina. When you are satisfied with the color carefully open the lid and use tweezers to place the pieces on a paper towel to dry.
Once dry, if desired, lightly sand the raised areas to reveal the embossed pattern. Hole punch at the top center of each piece.
Shows one sanded and one left as is. Seal with clear metal sealant if desired. Allow drying time
Add ear wires with bead accents.