# How to: Antiquing Metal
Bring a new look to your metal surfaces by antiquing them. Any metal surface can be antiqued, from cabinet hardware to fireplace facings to tin ceilings. Carefully antiqued metal has a soft luster that fits well with traditional design aesthetics. You can create an inexpensive antiqued metal look with a few items from the hardware store.
Things You'll Need
- Rasp, file or hammer
- Chemical antiquing solution
- Heavy-duty rubber gloves
- Dark brown stain
- Disposable rag
Instructions
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Distress the surface lightly with a rasp, file, or hammer. Go slowly as you work. Remember that you can always make more scratches, but you can't remove them.
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Treat brighter metals like copper and brass with a chemical antiquing solution, available at most hardware stores. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, and always wear heavy gloves when working with antiquing solution.
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Treat metals like nickel, which have a duller luster, with a diluted stain. To make the stain, mix one part dark brown stain with one part water and lightly brush the stain onto the metal with a disposable rag. Take care to work the stain into any dents and scrapes you created when you distressed the surface.
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