How to Get a Patina Look

Patina is a surface coating on metal that typically occurs naturally over time due to weather conditions. On copper surfaces, the desired patina is often a greenish hue that not only brings warmth to the metal, but protects it from the elements. If you don't want to wait for the natural elements to do the job, it is possible to get that green coloration on copper by applying a combination of household chemicals once the copper is cleansed of protective waxes or oils.

Dish soap
Paper towels
Warm water
Non-iodized salt
Ammonia
White vinegar

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the copper surface of any wax or oils using a mix of warm water and liquid dish soap. Thoroughly rinse the metal and dry the surface with paper towels.
- 2
  Mix 1 cup white vinegar, 3/4 cup standard household ammonia and 1/4 cup non-iodized salt in a clean spray bottle. Allow to sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the salt to dissolve. Spray the mixture on the copper and allow the surface to dry overnight.
- 3
  Gauge whether the patina that has developed overnight has a deep enough color for your taste. If you desire a deeper green, continue repeating the spray step over a period of days until the metal reaches the luster you desire.

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